Listing top NBA players globally, presently, from LeBron James to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
In the world of 2025 basketball, the NBA boasts an elite group of athletes unparalleled in their skills and prowess. While Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar continue to dominate the conversation for the greatest players of all-time, their legendary names have been etched into basketball history.
In this new era, big men are no longer everything; instead, the spotlight shines on players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant who continue to make history with their modern style. Simultaneously, young stars such as Victor Wembanyama, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Anthony Edwards are writing their own chapters in the annals of basketball.
Jayson Tatum, a smooth and gifted offensive player, finds himself at number 20 on this list. Carrying the Boston Celtics to a 18th NBA championship, Tatum's game is reminiscent of the great Larry Bird in both style and performance. However, a devastating Achilles injury in the playoffs casts uncertainty over Tatum's future and the potential long-term implications for the Celtics.
Cade Cunningham, a former No. 1 draft pick, is causing waves with the Detroit Pistons. Averaging 26.1 points and 9.1 assists this season, Cunningham has become the face of the rebuilt Pistons. After a strong performance in the playoffs against the New York Knicks, it is clear that Detroit is only heading in one direction – forward.
Kawhi Leonard, despite being limited by injuries, still maintains a spot in the top 20. With the Los Angeles Clippers, Leonard has averaged 25 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.1 steals, pushing the team to a hard-fought seven-game series against the Denver Nuggets.
Jaylen Brown, a crucial component of the Boston Celtics, holds the 17th spot. Although Trae Young puts up bigger stats, Brown's ability to play at a championship level and his Finals MVP pedigree make him a vital asset to the Celtics. Brown will need to step up next season with Tatum recovering from an injury.
Kevin Durant, despite fielding criticism and defending his legacy, remains one of the most skilled offensive players in the NBA. Surpassing the 30,000-point milestone in his career, Durant also recently secured his fourth gold medal with Team USA in the 2024 Summer Olympics. However, the Suns are yet to fully establish themselves as serious title contenders.
Devin Booker shows tremendous potential for the Phoenix Suns, despite another disappointing season for the team. Nicknamed "The Clutch King," Booker repeatedly delivered in pressure situations, pushing the Suns into the playoffs. The ongoing question remains: can Booker lead the team to that all-important NBA championship and secure his place among the greats?
Anthony Davis, a force when healthy, has become a valuable asset for the Dallas Mavericks following a blockbuster trade. Needless to say, his absence due to injury is keenly felt, making Davis' return to the court a priority for the Mavericks. His 26.3 PER, ranking fifth in the league, serves as a stark reminder of Davis' full-court talent.
Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies' standout player, faces challenges both on and off the court. Though Morant regained his flair this season, questions concerning his inner drive and focus persist. Whether the young guard can emerge as a true team leader remains to be seen.
Victor Wembanyama, managing to exceed draft hype, has become a sensation for the San Antonio Spurs. Despite languishing at the bottom of the NBA, Wembanyama's exceptional play has earned him the unanimous Rookie of the Year title – and a 50-point game following hot on its heels. With Stephon Castle, the Spurs are hopeful of turning their fortunes around.
Tyrese Haliburton, crowned "The Clutch King," once more displayed his shooting prowess during the playoffs, helping the Indiana Pacers reach the Eastern Conference finals. Experienced players and pundits alike have acknowledged Haliburton's value, with Shaquille O'Neal praising his skill and commitment to the game.
Luka Doncic,Evoking comparisons to Dirk Nowitzki, continues to captivate with his immense talent for the Los Angeles Lakers. A potential game-changer for the team, Doncic needs only a championship ring to justify his status as an all-time Lakers great.
The epicenter of attention, however, remains LeBron James, a King worthy of standing alongside Michael Jordan in the pantheon of basketball greats. At 40, James continues to defy expectations, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists while hitting an impressive 51% from the field. Recently, he became the first player in NBA history to reach 50,000 points. With his son Bronny occasionally suiting up for the Lakers and the dynamic Stephen Curry now joining the team, James' potential journey in the NBA is anything but stagnant.
Donovan Mitchell, propelled to new heights with the Cleveland Cavaliers, often exceeds the big numbers put up by his peers. However, Cleveland's disappointing end to the 2024-25 postseason leaves fans and players alike questioning Mitchell's ability to deliver under pressure. Still, his six All-Star selections and All-NBA second team honors suggest that Mitchell remains a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.
Jalen Brunson, the new face of the New York Knicks, has quickly propelled the team up the Eastern Conference standings. Reaching the top five of NBA MVP voting in the 2023-24 season, Brunson's attacking style and leadership have been instrumental in the Knicks' success. As the team continues to grow, Brunson's journey to all-time greatness remains ongoing.
Stephen Curry, one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, has added Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors' roster. Currently playing at a high level, Curry boasts more than 4,000 3-pointers and a burning desire for an NBA championship. Despite Golden State's worries about an aging roster, doubts persist about whether the team can mount another serious Finals challenge.
Antony Edwards, affectionately known as 'Ant-Man', soared through the ranks with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Known for his speed, athleticism, and aggressive style, Ant-Man reached the Western Conference finals and has his sights set on the NBA championship. Only time will tell if Ant-Man can secure an invite to the glowing lights of the Finals.
Lastly, Nikola Jokic, the 'Joker,' commands the court with unparalleled shooting and passing abilities. Having won three MVP awards and boasting a smooth, dominating style, Jokic continues to defy expectations. Hailing from Serbia, Jokic has risen from obscurity as a second-round draft pick to become the greatest basketball player in the world.
In a league brimming with talent, these stellar players lead the charge in 2025. Their skill, determination, and passion for the game continue to push the limits of basketball, captivating audiences worldwide and ensuring the sport's future remains bright.
In contrast to the dominant role of big men in the past, the world of 2025 sports shows a shift towards players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, who are shaping a modern era with their exceptional talents. Moreover, young stars such as Jayson Tatum, Ja Morant, and Victor Wembanyama are making a mark by writing their unique chapters in basketball annals. Meanwhile, the football and F1 arenas continue to showcase their own adrenaline-fueled competitions.
