AI Ranks The Top 10 NBA Centers Of All Time
The center position in the NBA has seen a dramatic evolution. From the paint-patrolling giants of the 1960s like Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain to modern-day superstars like Nikola Jokic, the role has transformed completely. Today's centers are expected to be facilitators, stretch the floor with their shooting, and defend agile guards on the perimeter. It's a testament to the position's legacy that it has always been stacked with Hall of Fame talent.
In the spirit of classic sports debates, we turned to technology for an answer, asking the AI system ChatGPT to name and rank the 10 greatest centers in NBA history. The results were compelling, featuring some significant surprises.
10. Patrick Ewing
Kicking off the list is one of the greatest players in New York Knicks history, Patrick Ewing. Though an NBA championship eluded him, largely due to playing in the Michael Jordan era, Ewing's personal career was stellar. He was an 11-time All-Star and a dominant force on both ends of the court. ChatGPT highlighted him as a "defensive stalwart and consistent scorer" who consistently led the Knicks to the playoffs during a highly competitive period in the league.
9. George Mikan
George Mikan, the NBA's first true superstar, often gets overshadowed by the legends who followed. Playing in the late 1940s and mid-1950s, Mikan was a force of nature, winning five NBA/BAA titles with the Minneapolis Lakers. According to ChatGPT, his dominance was so profound that it forced the league to widen the lane. The AI noted, "Mikan’s influence and success set the foundation for the modern center — his legacy is foundational to the NBA’s growth."
8. David Robinson
Nicknamed 'The Admiral', David Robinson was a cornerstone for the San Antonio Spurs. A two-time NBA champion, 1995 league MVP, and 1992 Defensive Player of the Year, Robinson was a model of excellence. He was a 10-time All-Star and a four-time member of the All-Defensive First Team. ChatGPT described him as "a rare combination of strength, speed, and intelligence," who excelled alongside Tim Duncan but lacked deep playoff success as the sole primary star.
7. Moses Malone
One of the most underrated players on this list, Moses Malone was a three-time league MVP and the driving force behind the Philadelphia 76ers' 1983 championship, where he was named Finals MVP. He was a relentless rebounder, leading the league in that category six times. ChatGPT praised his tenacity, stating he "carried the Houston Rockets to the Finals in 1981 almost single-handedly and dominated Kareem en route to Philly’s championship."
6. Wilt Chamberlain
Perhaps the most statistically dominant player in NBA history, Wilt Chamberlain's numbers are the stuff of legend. From a 100-point game to averaging over 50 points per season, his physical prowess was unmatched. However, ChatGPT placed him at sixth, pointing to a comparative lack of team success. The AI explained, "His raw dominance is unmatched. However, his playoff record and leadership at key moments pale compared to his peers... Despite two titles, Wilt often lost battles of intangibles — especially to Russell."
5. Nikola Jokic
Breaking into the top five is the only active player on the list, Nikola Jokic. The Serbian star has redefined the center position as a true offensive hub and is widely considered the greatest passing big man ever. With multiple MVPs and a championship ring, Jokic's legacy is already secure. ChatGPT noted, "With 2 MVPs, a Finals MVP, and a historically efficient 2023 championship run... he’s already entered all-time status." The AI also mentioned that at only 30 years old, his place in history is still rapidly rising.
4. Hakeem Olajuwon
Known as 'The Dream', Hakeem Olajuwon was a master of footwork and defensive prowess. He led the Houston Rockets to back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995, famously outplaying a gauntlet of Hall of Fame centers along the way. His 1994 season remains one of the greatest individual campaigns ever, winning MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP. ChatGPT rightfully called him "the most technically refined big man of all time."
3. Shaquille O'Neal
Often described as the most dominant physical force in NBA history, Shaquille O'Neal lands at number three. Shaq's peak with the Los Angeles Lakers resulted in a historic three-peat, where he won Finals MVP each year. He combined raw power with surprising agility, bullying opponents and shattering backboards. ChatGPT summarized his peak from 2000–2002 as "arguably the most overwhelming stretch for any center in NBA history."
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
With a record six NBA MVP awards and the legendary skyhook shot, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar represents sustained excellence. He was a dominant scorer in Milwaukee and later adapted his game to become a veteran leader for the Showtime Lakers, winning six championships over his storied career. When he retired, he was the NBA's all-time leading scorer. ChatGPT praised his longevity and adaptability, calling him "a model of sustained greatness across two decades."
1. Bill Russell
Topping the list is the ultimate winner, Bill Russell. The cornerstone of the Boston Celtics dynasty, Russell won an incredible 11 championships in 13 seasons. While his offensive stats don't jump off the page like Chamberlain's, his impact on the game was immeasurable. A five-time MVP, he revolutionized team defense and was the undisputed leader of the most dominant team in sports history. ChatGPT concluded that Russell was the greatest, stating, "His impact transcended box scores — he revolutionized team defense, anchored elite rebounding, and showed unmatched consistency in clutch games."
