The greatness of Larry "Legend" Bird can be described in two words, Celtic Pride. He indeed played with great pride but nonetheless, he played the game with intelligence and skill. He ran the system of Boston to perfection and he became a great passer, a great rebounder and also an unparalleled shooter. Larry's fame started out during college where he and his famous rival Magic Johnson started out as fierce competitors. Carrying it through the NBA, Larry and Magic's rivalry has been one of the most widely revered rivalry of all time. Not only did the Boston-Los Angeles rivalry lived on, but the Magic-Larry rivalry has also become one for the ages. Larry earned championships with the Celtics and he also won many 3-point shoot-out contest, making him as one of the best pure shooters ever.
4) Magic Johnson
We can't talk about Larry Bird without mentioning Earvin "Magic" Johnson. Magic was the leader of the 1980s showtime Lakers. His versatility inside the court has made him a very beloved player in the NBA, along with his big smile. Magic can play any position assigned to him, from point guard up to the center spot, he can pay it all. But what makes Magic different from everyone is his unique passing skills and keen eye inside the court. He has won championships with Lakers and has been a perennial all-star as well.
3) Jerry West
Jerry West's greatness during the 1960s can be easily attributed to his skills and talent inside the court. His prolific scoring and well-balanced play has made him one of the greatest to ever play the game. He was nicknamed "Mr. Clutch" because he was the usual guy who would deliver every time during crunch time. Jerry West is truly one of the best legends who ever played the game.
2) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem-Abdul Jabbar played the game of basketball in a very long time and he was able to rack-up many different records. He holds different scoring and rebounding records that still hold up until today. His patented skyhook cemented him as one of the best centers to ever play inside the paint. Kareem's greatness can be arguably incomparable to any center. His presence helped the Lakers win many championships during the 80s.
1) Michael Jordan
For everyone who witnessed Michael Jordan's prime, no one will ever doubt that he was the greatest basketball player who ever played the game. He revolutionized the game of basketball and he made the whole world fall in love with it. MJ's greatness cam simply make you speechless. His acrobatic shots, slamdunk championship trophies, 6 NBA titles, Olympic gold medal and everything in between says it all. Michael Jordan is the best player ever period.
