Sportz Nation's Top 50 NBA Players (2025-26)
- Joel Piton
- 3 hours ago
- 18 min read
With each new NBA season, the league reshapes itself—new stars rise, veterans make adjustments, and the hierarchy of greatness changes. What once felt certain is tested, and what once seemed impossible becomes reality. As fun as these rankings are, we're here to give you an unfiltered snapshot of where the game stands right now. From multiple time MVP recipients to rising phenoms, these are the players who define the league today, the ones kids dream of emulating, and the ones who will carry the game into its next era. As we head into 2025–26, from the bottom up, here are the guys who rule the hardwood.
Norman Powell — Miami Heat (G)
Height: 6'4" Years Pro: 11 Age: 32
2024-25 Stats : 21.8 PPG | 3.2 RPG | 2.1 APG | 48.4 FG%
At 32, Powell hit a career-best stride, posting highs in both scoring and efficiency. A steady 40% shooter from deep, he remains a lethal swingman option who thrives in any offensive system. His rise from role-player to established veteran has been fun to watch, and he's still climbing.
Lauri Markkanen — Utah Jazz (F)
Height: 7'0" Years Pro: 8 Age: 28
2024-25 Stats : 19.0 PPG | 5.9 RPG | 1.5 APG | 42.3 FG%
A 7-footer with guard-like shooting touch, Markkanen remains one of the most versatile offensive forwards in the league. His production dipped last season, but lingering injuries played a big role in slowing him down. Still, his confidence hasn’t wavered—he’s been shaking off the rust with strong showings for Team Finland this offseason. Expect a bounce-back campaign if he stays healthy.
Kristaps Porzingis — Atlanta Hawks (C/F)
Height: 7'2" Years Pro: 10 Age: 30
2024-25 Stats : 19.5 PPG | 6.8 RPG | 2.1 APG | 48.3 FG%
Porzingis has rebuilt his reputation as an NBA champion and proven difference-maker when on the court. Injuries have repeatedly disrupted his rhythm, but each time he returns his game looks the same—spacing the floor, protecting the rim, and punishing mismatches. Atlanta is betting on his health, and if he can stay upright, they’ve got a game-changer.
Julius Randle — Minnesota Timberwolves (F)
Height: 6'9" Years Pro: 11 Age: 30
2024-25 Stats : 18.7 PPG | 7.1 RPG | 4.7 APG | 48.5 FG%
The move to Minnesota hasn’t been seamless, but Randle remains a physical force in the frontcourt. A bruising stretch four who can bulldoze his way to the rim or step out and hit from distance, he’s always a threat for 20+ points. Consistency will be the key to his fit with the Wolves’ system.
Ivica Zubac — Los Angeles Clippers (C)
Height: 7'0" Years Pro: 9 Age: 28
2024-25 Stats : 16.8 PPG | 12.6 RPG | 2.7 APG | 62.8 FG%
Zubac quietly had a career year, finishing second in the league in rebounding with an eye-popping 12 per game. His steady dominance as a finisher inside and anchor on the glass makes him one of the NBA’s most underrated centers. Still just entering his prime, the Clippers are fortunate to have him locked in.
Scottie Barnes — Toronto Raptors (F)
Height: 6'7" Years Pro: 4 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 19.3 PPG | 7.7 RPG | 5.8 APG | 44.6 FG%
Even amid Toronto’s struggles, Barnes has been a constant bright spot. A versatile forward with the ability to score, rebound, and facilitate, he already looks like a nightly triple-double threat. With new help arriving, the Raptors’ future still rests heavily on Barnes’ continued development.
Jamal Murray — Denver Nuggets (G)
Height: 6'4" Years Pro: 9 Age: 28
2024-25 Stats : 21.4 PPG | 3.9 RPG | 1.4 APG | 47.4 FG%
Murray’s 2024-25 campaign flew under the radar, but his skill and poise remain as sharp as ever. A dangerous scorer from deep or midrange, he can heat up in an instant while keeping teammates involved with smart passing. One of the league’s most beloved guards, he’s always must-watch TV when healthy.
Amen Thompson — Houston Rockets (F)
Height: 6'7" Years Pro: 2 Age: 22
2024-25 Stats : 14.1 PPG | 8.2 RPG | 3.8 APG | 55.7 FG%
Thompson’s blend of length, speed, and athleticism is one of a kind, and he already flashes All-Star caliber potential. His motor makes him a threat in transition, as a cutter, and on the glass. He's also one of the leagues quickest and most menacing defenders despite his age. If he ever finds consistency with his jumper, he could become one of the most complete players in the league.
Austin Reaves — Los Angeles Lakers (G)
Height: 6'5" Years Pro: 4 Age: 27
2024-25 Stats : 20.2 PPG | 4.5 RPG | 5.8 APG | 46.0 FG%
From undrafted rookie to core centerpiece of the Lakers’ offense, Reaves has cemented himself as a rising star. His handle allows him to create separation for dribble pull-ups, while his craft at the rim keeps defenders guessing. Already a 20+ point scorer, he’s poised to keep growing into a reliable go-to option.
DeMar DeRozan — Sacramento Kings (G)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 16 Age: 36
2024-25 Stats : 22.2 PPG | 3.9 RPG | 4.4 APG | 47.7 FG%
At 36, DeRozan is still producing at a high level and climbing the all-time scoring ladder with over 25,000 points. His midrange game remains as smooth as ever, making him Sacramento’s most trusted bucket-getter alongside Zach LaVine. A Hall of Fame resume continues to take shape with every season he plays.
Franz Wagner — Orlando Magic (F)
Height: 6'10" Years Pro: 4 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 24.2 PPG | 5.7 RPG | 4.7 APG | 46.3 FG%
Wagner’s 24 points per game last year proved he’s far more than a complementary role player—he’s a star in his own right. His efficiency, off-ball movement, and relentlessness give Orlando a steady option night in and night out. With Paolo Banchero beside him, Wagner looks like the co-pilot of a playoff mainstay in the making.
Zach LaVine — Sacramento Kings (G)
Height: 6'5" Years Pro: 11 Age: 30
2024-25 Stats : 23.3 PPG | 4.3 RPG | 4.2 APG | 51.1 FG%
Entering his thirties, LaVine has shifted his focus to one thing: winning. His explosive first step and vertical pop still make him lethal attacking the rim, and he’s quietly become one of the league’s best midrange shooters. Even as his athletic prime fades, his offensive polish keeps him among the league’s most dangerous scorers.
Derrick White — Boston Celtics (G)
Height: 6'4" Years Pro: 8 Age: 31
2024-25 Stats : 16.4 PPG | 4.5 RPG | 4.8 APG | 44.2 FG%
White has blossomed into one of the league’s best 3&D guards, capable of taking on much more offensive responsibility with Tatum sidelined. He’s a relentless defender who can guard every position in spurts and thrives as a weak-side rim protector. Add in his reliable shooting and unselfish playmaking, and you have the definition of a dream teammate.
Chet Holmgren — Oklahoma City Thunder (C)
Height: 7'1" Years Pro: 3 Age: 23
2024-25 Stats : 15.0 PPG | 8.0 RPG | 2.0 APG | 49.0 FG%
At just 23, Holmgren already has a championship under his belt and is proving to be a generational big man for the Thunder. When healthy, his ability to block shots at the rim and knock down threes makes him one of the most versatile players in the game. He's already proven he can play 82 games in the course of a season—if he stays healthy Chet ranks as one of the league's rising big men.
Jimmy Butler — Golden State Warriors (F)
Height: 6'7" Years Pro: 14 Age: 35
2024-25 Stats : 17.5 PPG | 5.4 RPG | 5.4 APG | 50.4 FG%
Even at 36, Butler remains a nightmare in playoff settings with his two-way intensity and knack for punishing mismatches. His scoring may have dipped, but his midrange game, physicality, and relentless will to win keep him dangerous. Butler brings winning culture to Golden State rather quickly and it feels like a perfect fit. But does he have enough in the engine to get things done? This Warriors roster will follow Butler’s lead wherever the stakes are highest.
Zion Williamson — New Orleans Pelicans (F)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 6 Age: 25
2024-25 Stats : 24.6 PPG | 7.2 RPG | 5.3 APG | 56.7 FG%
Williamson’s upside remains tantalizing, but his availability has become the defining story of his career. When healthy, he’s nearly unstoppable, bulldozing through defenses with unmatched power and touch around the rim. Unfortunately, a “healthy Zion” has become basketball’s rarest sighting.
De'Aaron Fox — San Antonio Spurs (G)
Height: 6'3" Years Pro: 8 Age: 27
2024-25 Stats : 23.5 PPG | 4.8 RPG | 6.3 APG | 46.3 FG%
One of the fastest guards in the NBA, Fox is the engine that will make San Antonio’s offense hum. Despite a loaded backcourt, it's a no brainer that Fox will be the lead guard getting things done. His explosive first step and ability to finish in traffic make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. With improved shooting consistency, he could elevate himself even higher on this list.
LaMelo Ball — Charlotte Hornets (G)
Height: 6'7" Years Pro: 5 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 25.2 PPG | 4.9 RPG | 7.4 APG | 40.5 FG%
At 6'7 with flashy handles, deep range, and elite vision, Ball remains one of the most exciting young guards in basketball. Injuries have robbed him of consistency, and Charlotte hasn’t sniffed contention as a result. But if he stays on the floor, this year’s revamped roster could finally give him the platform to thrive.
Alperen Sengün — Houston Rockets (C)
Height: 6'11" Years Pro: 4 Age: 23
2024-25 Stats : 19.1 PPG | 10.3 RPG | 4.9 APG | 49.6 FG%
Nicknamed “Baby Jokic” for good reason, Sengün earned his first All-Star nod last season with a mix of playmaking brilliance and inside dominance. He’s a nightly double-double threat, comfortable scoring at all three levels, and a natural hub in Ime Udoka’s offense. Sengün proved to be a more than capable passer at the five spot, and someone who reads defenses exceptionally well. At just 23, the Rockets’ big man is only scratching the surface.
Domantas Sabonis — Sacramento Kings (C/F)
Height: 6'10" Years Pro: 9 Age: 29
2024-25 Stats : 19.1 PPG | 13.9 RPG | 6.0 APG | 59.0 FG%
One of the league’s premier rebounders, Sabonis controls the glass like clockwork and punishes defenses with efficient scoring around the rim. His vision as a passer keeps Sacramento’s offense flowing, and his 60% shooting speaks for itself. Carrying the load on both ends, he’s the Kings’ most indispensable piece.
Tyler Herro — Miami Heat (G)
Height: 6'5" Years Pro: 6 Age: 25
2024-25 Stats : 23.9 PPG | 5.2 RPG | 5.5 APG | 47.2 FG%
After earning his first All-Star selection last year, Herro has proven he’s more than just a streaky scorer. A versatile shot-creator who can pour in 20+ points nightly, he thrives in clutch moments and has become Miami’s offensive anchor post-Butler. His confidence and range make him a constant threat and Miami's primary bucket-getter.
Jalen Williams — Oklahoma City Thunder (F)
Height: 6'5" Years Pro: 3 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 21.6 PPG | 5.3 RPG | 5.1 APG | 48.4 FG%
The Thunder’s title run doesn’t happen without Williams, who has emerged as a two-way menace on the wing. Explosive, efficient, and capable of defending elite scorers, his game grows sharper each season. With his blend of shooting, athleticism, and defense, Williams is rapidly becoming one of the NBA’s most complete young stars.
Darius Garland — Cleveland Cavaliers (G)
Height: 6'1" Years Pro: 6 Age: 25
2024-25 Stats : 20.6 PPG | 2.9 RPG | 6.7 APG | 47.2 FG%
A 64–18 Cavs record doesn’t happen without Garland’s fingerprints all over it. His sticky handle, quick first step, and vision make him one of the league’s most creative guards. Alongside Mitchell, he forms one of the NBA’s most dangerous backcourts, capable of collapsing defenses and keeping pressure on every possession.
Tyrese Maxey — Philadelphia 76ers (G)
Height: 6'2" Years Pro: 5 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 26.3 PPG | 3.4 RPG | 6.1 APG | 43.7 FG%
Injuries limited him this season, but when on the floor Maxey is electric. His speed and pull-up game make him nearly impossible to contain, and his improved playmaking hints at even more growth. Maxey will score among the league's greatest defenders and there's no getting around it. Averaging 26 points per game at just 24 years old, he’s already a budding superstar in Philly.
Bam Adebayo — Miami Heat (C/F)
Height: 6'9" Years Pro: 8 Age: 28
2024-25 Stats : 18.1 PPG | 9.6 RPG | 5.4 APG | 48.5 FG%
A defensive monster, Bam anchors Miami on both ends as a perennial All-Defensive selection. His midrange jumper, playmaking, and rebounding make him one of the most versatile bigs in the game. Nightly double-doubles have become the standard, and his leadership keeps the Heat competitive.
Pascal Siakam — Indiana Pacers (F)
Height: 6'8" Years Pro: 9 Age: 31
2024-25 Stats : 20.2 PPG | 6.9 RPG | 3.4 APG | 51.9 FG%
Entering his 30s, Siakam continues to evolve as a multifaceted forward. His ability to finish inside, defend multiple positions, and serve as a connective playmaker makes him invaluable. He thrives in chaotic situations, turning double-teams into scoring opportunities for teammates.
James Harden — Los Angeles Clippers (G)
Height: 6'5" Years Pro: 16 Age: 36
2024-25 Stats : 22.8 PPG | 5.8 RPG | 8.7 APG | 41.0 FG%
At 36, Harden remains a stat-stuffing machine, inching closer to 30,000 career points. While his scoring has dipped, his passing is grown to be more elite and useful in keeping Harden great. Harden can orchestrate an offense with precision or be the one doing most of the scoring. He’s not the MVP version of himself anymore, but he’s still a threat every time he touches the ball.
Jaren Jackson Jr. — Memphis Grizzlies (F/C)
Height: 6'10" Years Pro: 7 Age: 25
2024-25 Stats : 22.2 PPG | 5.6 RPG | 2.0 APG | 48.8 FG%
The former DPOY has been Memphis’ rock through Ja Morant’s absences. While no longer blocking three shots a night, his quickness, timing, and help defense keep him elite defensively. It also defies logic that a player of his build can stroke it so well from beyond the arc. Add in his 20+ ppg scoring and range, and Jackson remains a rising two-way force.
Jalen Brown — Boston Celtics (G/F)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 9 Age: 28
2024-25 Stats : 22.2 PPG | 5.8 RPG | 4.5 APG | 46.3 FG%
With Tatum sidelined, Brown will be tasked with carrying the Celtics’ offense, and he’s more than capable. A fearless rim attacker, relentless defender, and ever-improving ball-handler, Brown is the definition of a hard-working star. Expect him to showcase his full arsenal this season.
Trae Young —Atlanta Hawks (G)
Height: 6'1" Years Pro: 7 Age: 26
2024-25 Stats : 24.2 PPG | 3.1 RPG | 11.6 APG | 41.1 FG%
Despite shaky efficiency, Young’s value is undeniable. He led the league in assists (11.6) and continues to elevate teammates while being a relentless scorer from deep. The question is no longer his talent—it’s whether Atlanta can finally match his urgency to win.
Paolo Banchero — Orlando Magic (F)
Height: 6'10" Years Pro: 3 Age: 22
2024-25 Stats : 25.9 PPG | 7.5 RPG | 4.8 APG | 45.2 FG%
The 6'10 forward keeps leveling up, doubling his production in a breakout year despite injuries. He blends physical bully-ball scoring with finesse, creating his own shot or facilitating as a playmaker. Banchero is already Orlando’s engine and looks like a future MVP candidate.
Evan Mobley — Cleveland Cavaliers (F/C)
Height: 6'11" Years Pro: 4 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 18.5 PPG | 9.3 RPG | 3.2 APG | 55.7 FG%
The reigning DPOY is a defensive nightmare—long, mobile, and capable of switching across the floor. His rim protection sets the tone for Cleveland, and his offense grows each season with improved shooting and passing. At just 24, his ceiling is terrifyingly high.
Ja Morant — Memphis Grlizzlies (G)
Height: 6'2" Years Pro: 6 Age: 26
2024-25 Stats : 23.2 PPG | 4.1 RPG | 7.3 APG | 45.4 FG%
Explosive as ever, Morant remains one of the most electric players in basketball. His finishing ability, body control, and playmaking keep Memphis in the spotlight when he’s on the court. The challenge is staying available—if he does, he’s a perennial All-NBA talent.
Kawhi Leonard — Los Angeles Clippers (F)
Height: 6'7" Years Pro: 14 Age: 34
2024-25 Stats : 21.5 PPG | 5.9 RPG | 3.1 APG | 49.8 FG%
Injuries and load management continue to shadow his career, but when Leonard plays, he’s still one of the best two-way forces alive. A Finals MVP twice over, he’s surgical offensively and suffocating defensively. The Clippers’ title hopes hinge on his health, but last postseason we saw just what a healthy Kawhi is still capable of. Crafty midrange pullups, tough layups, Kawhi remains a monster into his mid-thirties.
Joel Embiid — Philadelphia 76ers (C)
Height: 7'0" Years Pro: 11 Age: 31
2024-25 Stats : 23.8 PPG | 8.2 RPG | 4.5 APG | 44.4 FG%
A former MVP, Embiid still has the skills to continuously be one of the most dominant forces in basketball. A walking 30-and-10 in his prime who also protects the rim, Embiid has since been shunned as an injury prone disaster. If he can stay on the floor and remain healthy, he'll climb this list without issue.
Anthony Davis — Dallas Mavericks (F/C)
Height: 6'10" Years Pro: 13 Age: 32
2024-25 Stats : 24.7 PPG |11.6 RPG | 3.5 APG | 51.6 FG%
With new slacks and a new franchise to carry, Anthony Davis is on a mission. At 32, Davis continues to be a nightly defensive anchor, capable of controlling a game with his rim protection alone. Offensively, he’s still a 20+ ppg scorer who can stretch the floor and dominate the paint. Health remains his biggest obstacle, but when he’s upright, he’s a standout talent.
Cade Cunningham — Detroit Pistons (G)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 4 Age: 23
2024-25 Stats : 26.1 PPG | 6.1 RPG | 9.1 APG | 46.9 FG%
A point guard who's age belies his skills, Detroit finally has a centerpiece in Cunningham, who looks poised to lead the franchise into relevance. A 6’6 floor general with a deep bag, he scores, passes, and controls tempo with maturity beyond his years. If the Pistons can surround him with the same level of passion, expect Cade to leap even higher.
Karl-Anthony Towns — New York Knicks (C)
Height: 7'0" Years Pro: 10 Age: 29
2024-25 Stats : 24.4 PPG | 12.8 RPG | 3.1 APG | 52.6 FG%
A stretch-five unlike any other, Towns is one of the greatest shooting bigs of all time with a career clip north of 40% from deep. He’s also a walking double-double who combines post moves, euro steps, and powerful finishes to punish defenses in multiple ways. While his defense has been criticized in the past, Towns has steadily improved into a respectable anchor on that end. Offensively, there are very few bigs with his all-around arsenal.
Devin Booker — Phoenix Suns (G)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 10 Age: 28
2024-25 Stats : 25.6 PPG | 4.1 RPG | 7.1 APG | 46.1 FG%
One of the game’s premier scorers, Booker is entering his prime with full control of Phoenix’s offense now that KD is gone. His three-level scoring ability is lethal, and he’s grown into a much more refined playmaker, averaging 7 assists per game last season. Booker thrives in both isolation and pick-and-roll situations, making him a nightmare matchup for any defender. At 28, it’s finally his team to shape into a contender.
Jalen Brunson — New York Knicks (G)
Height: 6'2" Years Pro: 7 Age: 29
2024-25 Stats : 26.0 PPG | 2.9 RPG | 7.3 APG | 48.8 FG%
Brunson has cemented himself as the face of New York basketball, leading with poise and grit. His “old-man game” relies on footwork, hesitation moves, and mid-range mastery, allowing him to score against bigger defenders. He’s also a capable playmaker, able to run the offense smoothly or create shots out of nothing. Few guards combine his craftiness with his toughness, and it’s why he’s risen so fast into the league’s elite.
Victor Wembanyama — San Antonio Spurs (C/F)
Height: 7'3" Years Pro: 2 Age: 21
2024-25 Stats : 24.3 PPG | 11.0 RPG | 3.7 APG | 47.6 FG%
A generational talent, Wembanyama is already rewriting what’s possible for a big man at just 21. Standing nearly 7’4 with guard skills, he’s led the league in blocks while also stretching the floor with limitless shooting range. Wemby is a nightly double-double threat who can also create for teammates as well, making him a true do-it-all weapon. Despite an injury-shortened year, his tireless work ethic suggests an even bigger breakout is coming.
Donovan Mitchell — Cleveland Cavaliers (G)
Height: 6'3" Years Pro: 8 Age: 29
2024-25 Stats : 24.0 PPG | 4.5 RPG | 5.0 APG | 44.3 FG%
The driving force behind Cleveland’s 64–18 season, Mitchell is the best shooting guard in the Eastern Conference by far. A fearless scorer, he’s equally dangerous pulling up from deep, finishing with finesse inside, or gliding for high-flying dunks. He thrives in clutch moments and is always ready to shoulder the scoring load when the Cavs need him most. At just 29, he’s hitting the sweet spot of his prime.
Kevin Durant — Houston Rockets (F)
Height: 6'11" Years Pro: 18 Age: 36
2024-25 Stats : 26.6 PPG | 6.0 RPG | 4.2 APG | 52.7 FG%
At 37, Durant remains a transcendent talent, still capable of turning a franchise into a contender overnight. A career 27-point-per-game scorer, KD’s shot-making, length, and versatility keep him firmly in the conversation as one of the greatest offensive players of all time. Joining Houston instantly vaulted the Rockets into title contention, and the basketball world will be watching the Rockets closely. Durant’s Hall of Fame resume is already cemented, but he continues to add to it in ways few players at his age ever could.
Stephen Curry — Golden State Warriors (G)
Height: 6'2" Years Pro: 16 Age: 37
2024-25 Stats : 24.5 PPG | 4.4 RPG | 6.0 APG | 44.8 FG%
Widely regarded as the greatest shooter in history, Curry continues to expand his already untouchable three-point record. Now entering season 17—all with Golden State—he remains one of the league’s most dangerous offensive forces despite his age and battling injuries. Beyond shooting, his handle, playmaking, and off-ball movement make him nearly impossible to guard. At 37, Curry defies age and logic, carrying the Warriors’ hopes while still redefining the point guard position.
LeBron James — Los Angeles Lakers (F)
Height: 6'9" Years Pro: 22 Age: 40
2024-25 Stats : 24.4 PPG | 7.8 RPG | 8.2 APG | 51.3 FG%
Entering his 23rd season, LeBron is pushing boundaries that no player in NBA history has even approached. The four-time MVP and all-time scoring leader remains a nightly triple-double threat, capable of scoring, facilitating, and defending at an elite level. At 6’9" and 250 pounds, his mix of power, skill, and intelligence still overwhelms opponents. LeBron’s longevity and adaptability make him a living blueprint for greatness in professional sports.
Anthony Edwards — Minnesota Timberwolves (G)
Height: 6'4" Years Pro: 5 Age: 24
2024-25 Stats : 27.6 PPG | 5.7 RPG | 4.5 APG | 44.7 FG%
Ant-Man is quickly becoming a premier face in the league, combining charisma with star power, and jaw-dropping athleticism. At just 24, he’s already a fearless three-level scorer with the strength to bully defenders and the skill to finesse tough jumpers. Edwards thrives on highlight-reel drives and explosive dunks, but his defense and playmaking continue to round out his game. With Minnesota primed for another deep playoff push, Edwards’ leap into superstardom feels inevitable.
Luka Doncic — Los Angeles Lakers (G/F)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 7 Age: 26
2024-25 Stats : 28.2 PPG | 8.2 RPG | 7.7 APG | 45.0 FG%
Luka enters this season with plenty to prove, and in the best shape of his life. After shaving off significant weight in the offseason, the 6’6 Slovenian star is primed for a career-defining year. In his 2023-24 campaign, even while struggling with conditioning, he led the league in scoring and dragged Dallas to the Finals. Now healthier, leaner, and more explosive, Luka has all the motivation in the world—especially with LeBron possibly entering his final season. At just 26, he’s already one of the greatest European players of all time, and he’s only just getting started. The headliner of a blockbuster trade last season, Luka's career will be in the hot seat from here on out.
Giannis Antetokounmpo — Milwaukee Bucks (F)
Height: 6'11" Years Pro: 12 Age: 31
2024-25 Stats : 30.4 PPG | 11.9 RPG | 6.5 APG | 60.1 FG%
The “Greek Freak” flirted with the idea of leaving Milwaukee, but ultimately recommitted to carrying the franchise on his back. Entering his 30s, Giannis continues to average 30+ points on over 60% from the field, blending brute force, unmatched athleticism, and steady improvement on his jumper. The Bucks roster is shaky, but Giannis has proven he can single-handedly drag a team into contention. With nine All-Star appearances and two MVPs already, he’s a generational two-way force who hasn’t slowed down. The question isn’t if he’ll dominate—it’s whether Milwaukee can keep up.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — Oklahoma City Thunder (G)
Height: 6'6" Years Pro: 7 Age: 27
2024-25 Stats : 32.7 PPG | 5.0 RPG | 6.4 APG | 51.9 FG%
Shai is coming off one of the greatest seasons in modern NBA history: MVP, Finals MVP, a scoring title, First-Team All-NBA, and the NBA 2K26 cover athlete. His game is a masterclass in poise—methodical, balanced, and deliberate, using hesitation moves, crossovers, and unmatched control to score with ease. At 6’6, he sees over defenses, creates angles most guards can’t, and punishes teams in the midrange and at the line. Critics call him a “free-throw merchant,” but the truth is his footwork, timing, and IQ are elite at bending the rules of the game. The Thunder’s title run doesn’t happen without Shai, and at just 27, his ceiling might still be higher.
Nikola Jokic — Denver Nuggets (C)
Height: 6'11" Years Pro: 10 Age: 30
2024-25 Stats : 29.6 PPG | 12.7 RPG | 10.2 APG | 57.6 FG%
While Shai may be the league’s hottest star, Jokic is still the best basketball player alive. The three-time MVP became the first center—and just the third player ever—to average a triple-double, doing so with 30 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists on 57% shooting. No player bends the game the way Jokic does; his passing vision is unparalleled, his touch from three to the post is elite, and he controls tempo like a point guard trapped in a seven-footer’s body. Already a champion, Jokic has redefined what a modern big man can be. At just 30, he’s still scratching the surface of his prime, and that’s why—for now—he edges out Shai as the #1 player in the world.
There you have it, but keep in mind: lists like these are snapshots in time. Injuries, breakout seasons, trades, and surprises will shake things up as the 2025–26 season unfolds—and you can bet this Top 50 will look different by spring. But for now, this is where I stand, and it paints a clear picture of who’s holding the crown, who’s chasing it, and who’s poised to shock us all.
Need more hoops coverage to carry you through the offseason and right into tip-off? Stay tuned to Sportz Nation for rankings, analysis, and all the storylines that will define this year’s NBA journey.
Thanks for reading!
Joel Piton