The shooting guard position in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA has often been overshadowed by point guards and towering centers, traditionally seen as the primary playmakers and dominant figures on the court. However, in today’s game, shooting guards are essential offensive weapons and defensive stalwarts. They are expected to be deadly from beyond the arc, versatile scorers who can create their own shots, and strong perimeter defenders who conserve energy for their point guard teammates.
With over 75 years of NBA history, countless exceptional shooting guards have contributed significantly to the sport, making any ranking of the greatest at the position both challenging and compelling. Fans recently shared their views on who stands out as the top shooting guards of all time, highlighting a blend of legendary figures and modern stars.
George Gervin: The Smooth Scoring Legend
Ranked tenth, George “Iceman” Gervin is often an underrated giant of the shooting guard position. Known for his effortless scoring style, Gervin impressed even Michael Jordan, who described him as his “most unstoppable teammate” despite spending only one season playing alongside him. Gervin’s accolades include 12 All-Star appearances, seven All-NBA selections, and four scoring titles. With a career average of 25.1 points per game, ranking 14th all-time, Gervin’s silky skills and scoring ability secured him a spot on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary team.
Pete Maravich: An Offensive Pioneer Ahead of His Time
Pete “Pistol Pete” Maravich, placed ninth by fans, was a trailblazer who played with a flair more reminiscent of today’s explosive shooters like Stephen Curry than the traditional guards of the 1970s. Despite battling knee injuries that cut his career short at age 32, Maravich averaged 24.2 points over his ten seasons and claimed the 1977 scoring title with 31.1 points per game. A five-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA member, Maravich’s creative scoring and shooting range were revolutionary in an era less suited to his style.
Clyde Drexler: The Athletic “Glide” of the NBA
At number eight is Clyde “The Glide” Drexler, renowned for his smooth athleticism that made him appear to skate effortlessly around the court. Drexler maintained career averages of 20.4 points and 5.6 assists per game, consistently scoring above 18 points per game throughout most of his 14-season career. While he never won a championship with the Portland Trail Blazers, Drexler played a pivotal role in the Houston Rockets’ 1994-95 championship, averaging 20.5 points as the second option behind Hakeem Olajuwon.
Reggie Miller: Indiana’s Iconic Sharpshooter
Famed for his clutch shooting and intense playoff battles, Reggie Miller earns the seventh spot among top shooting guards. Miller, who once held the NBA’s all-time three-point record, finished his career with an 18.2 points per game average and earned five All-Star appearances and three All-NBA selections. His signature moments, including the infamous “choke” gesture after a game-winning steal against the New York Knicks, have become integral to NBA lore, inspiring current stars like Tyrese Haliburton.
Ray Allen: A Legendary Shooter with Clutch Moments
Ray Allen, ranked sixth, is celebrated not only for his technical shooting mastery but also for one of the most memorable shots in NBA Finals history—a game-tying three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 Finals that helped the Miami Heat stave off elimination. Beyond that moment, Allen is the third all-time leader in three-pointers made with 2,973, behind only Stephen Curry and James Harden. From 2000 to 2007, Allen consistently scored over 20 points per season and was recognized with ten All-Star selections and two All-NBA honors.
James Harden: Statistical Brilliance Amid Playoff Criticism
James Harden secures the fifth position among shooting guards due to his staggering regular-season numbers, though his playoff performances have attracted criticism. Harden averages 24.1 points and 7.2 assists per game while maintaining an extraordinary 60.8% true shooting percentage. Between 2015 and 2020, Harden posted remarkable averages of 30.9 points, 8.3 assists, and 6.4 rebounds with 61.3% true shooting. His ability to beat defenders off the dribble, draw fouls repeatedly, and execute devastating step-back threes earned him five MVP top-three finishes and the 2018 MVP award.
Despite struggles in the postseason, Harden’s offensive arsenal and productivity have firmly established him as one of the greatest shooting guards in league history.
Allen Iverson: The Undersized MVP Revolutionizing the Game
Ranked fourth, Allen Iverson remains one of the most influential players in NBA history. Standing just under six feet tall, Iverson defied expectations by dominating with speed, toughness, and scoring prowess. Averaging 26.7 points per game, Iverson ranked ninth all-time in scoring and earned four scoring titles, 11 All-Star selections, seven All-NBA honors, and the 2001 league MVP. He famously led the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals in 2001 with some of the finest performances by a smaller player ever recorded, inspiring countless athletes.
Dwyane Wade: The Energetic Champion and Defensive Force
At number three, Dwyane Wade epitomized relentless energy and physicality throughout his 16-year career. Nicknamed “Flash” for his speed and explosiveness, Wade combined an aggressive attacking style with sturdy, fullback-like strength that made him a formidable defender. His decorated career includes 13 All-Star appearances, eight All-NBA selections, three championships, and the 2006 Finals MVP. Wade’s 2006 playoff run, featuring a 28.4 points average with high efficiency, remains one of the most impressive performances by a young player in NBA history.
Kobe Bryant: The Closest Rival to Michael Jordan’s Legacy
Second on the list is Kobe Bryant, revered for his intense competitiveness and relentless work ethic. Kobe modeled much of his game and demeanor after Michael Jordan and succeeded in achieving many of the same feats. Over 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant amassed 18 All-Star selections, 15 All-NBA teams, 12 All-Defensive selections, five championships, two Finals MVP awards, and one league MVP. His two championship runs in 2009 and 2010 are remembered as some of the most dominant in recent decades, solidifying Kobe’s reputation as one of basketball’s smartest and fiercest competitors.
Michael Jordan: The Definitive Shooting Guard and Global Icon
The unanimous No. 1 shooting guard in NBA history is Michael Jeffrey Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player ever. Jordan’s impact transcends the court through his global legacy as a cultural icon, largely fueled by his sneaker brand and charismatic appeal. On the hardwood, he led the Chicago Bulls to six championships, earning six Finals MVPs and five league MVPs. A 14-time All-Star and 11-time All-NBA member, Jordan holds the highest career points-per-game average in NBA history at 30.1 and secured ten scoring titles during his 15-year career. His blend of scoring, defense, and leadership remains the ultimate standard for the shooting guard position.
The Significance of Recognizing the Greatest Shooting Guards
This fan-driven ranking of NBA shooting guards highlights the evolution and enduring importance of the position. Players like James Harden demonstrate how modern shooting guards combine scoring efficiency, playmaking, and versatility to dominate games over the long season. Meanwhile, legends such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Allen Iverson serve as reminders of the immense impact shooting guards have had on shaping basketball’s history.
As the game continues to evolve, the accomplishments and styles of these players will inspire future generations to redefine what it means to be an elite shooting guard in the NBA.