When we talk about legends in the NBA, we can't avoid discussing those players who have won the league's most prestigious individual award – the MVP. This award signifies unparalleled skill, leadership, and the ability to elevate the entire team's performance. Since the inception of the MVP award in 1956, many greats have lifted this accolade, but some names stand out more than others.
Firstly, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the record for the most MVP awards, capturing the title six times during his illustrious career. Kareem played from 1969 to 1989, a span of 20 years where he dominated the game like no other. At 7-foot-2, his skyhook shot was nearly unstoppable, giving him a stellar scoring average of 24.6 points per game over his career. Winning the MVP was no easy feat, as it involves consistent excellence over a grueling 82-game regular season.
Following closely behind is Michael Jordan, who secured the MVP crown five times. Known for his competitive spirit and unmatched skill, Jordan played 15 seasons, mostly with the Chicago Bulls. His impressive tally includes leading the league in scoring for ten seasons, boasting an average of 30.1 points per game. Michael Jordan's name frequently appears in discussions about the greatest player of all time, an opinion backed by his six NBA championships and Finals MVP awards.
Another name worth mentioning is Bill Russell, who won the MVP award five times. Playing from 1956 to 1969 for the Boston Celtics, Russell was a defensive powerhouse. His prowess on defense and rebounding, with an astonishing average of 22.5 rebounds per game, made him a game-changer. During his era, he led the Celtics to 11 NBA championships, a record that still stands today.
The four-time MVP award winners include Magic Johnson and LeBron James. Magic Johnson defined the point guard position with his unparalleled playmaking abilities. Magic's career spanned from 1979 to 1991, and a brief return from 1996 to 1999. His vision and passing skills elevated his teammates, making the Los Angeles Lakers a dominant force during the '80s.
LeBron James, who is still active, has redefined longevity and excellence in the modern era. Since entering the league in 2003, LeBron has been a business and sports icon. He's led three different franchises – the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers – to NBA championships. LeBron’s versatility on the court, averaging 27.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, makes him one of the most complete players ever.
Then there's Larry Bird, who won the MVP three consecutive times from 1984 to 1986. Bird’s understanding of the game, his shooting prowess, and clutch play made him one of the best forwards in history. During his career, he achieved an impressive 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, solidifying his place among the NBA elite.
One can't forget Wilt Chamberlain, who is also a four-time MVP. Wilt dominated the NBA like no other, with incredible scoring and rebounding feats, including the famous 100-point game. Over his career, he averaged 30.1 points and 22.9 rebounds per game, setting records that future generations of players can only aspire to break.
Moses Malone, a three-time MVP, revolutionized the game with his transition from high school to professional basketball. Known for his tenacity on the boards and in the paint, he averaged 20.6 points and 12.2 rebounds per game during a career that spanned from 1974 to 1995. Malone's hard work paid off when he led the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA title in 1983.
In recent years, Stephen Curry has emerged as a two-time MVP, revolutionizing the game with his long-range shooting and ball-handling. Curry, who has played for the Golden State Warriors since 2009, led the team to multiple championships and changed the way basketball is played at every level, focusing more on three-point shooting and spacing.
The list of MVP winners is long and distinguished, with each player bringing something unique to the table. These players didn’t just shine individually; they lifted their entire teams, changing the course of the NBA's history. While the MVP award is an individual accolade, it often reflects broader team success and impact on the game.
These legends have set the bar high, and it remains to be seen who will join their ranks in the future. For a detailed list of these MVP winners and the years they won, check out the most comprehensive source here.