NBA win shares is an advanced NBA statistical metric that aims to quantify the number of wins a player produces for their team.
It’s a metric that uses various aspects of a player’s game, including scoring efficiency, defensive prowess, and overall impact on the court.
This metric allows us to appreciate those players who have not only excelled individually but have significantly contributed to their team’s success.
On the other side, check out the players with the lowest Win Shares in history.
NBA Players With The Highest Win Shares
1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
- Win Shares: 273.4
- Points: 38,387 (all-time leading scorer)
- Rebounds: 17,440
- Achievements: 6× NBA champion, 6× MVP, 19× All-Star Kareem’s career spanned from the late 1960s into the late 1980s.
Kareem was a skilled center known for his scoring ability, primarily through his patented skyhook shot, which was nearly impossible to defend. He combined size with agility, making him a dominant force on both ends of the court.
His basketball IQ and ability to read the game made him a formidable opponent and a reliable teammate.
2. LeBron James
- Win Shares: Over 250 and counting
- Points: Over 37,000
- Assists: Over 10,000
- Achievements: 4× NBA champion, 4× MVP, 18× All-Star LeBron’s all-around game has made him a dominant force since the early 2000s.
LeBron is an all-around player who excels in every aspect of the game.
Known for his versatility, he can play multiple positions and impact the game through scoring, rebounding, and assisting.
His physical strength and speed, combined with a high basketball IQ, allow him to control games and make his teammates better.
3. Michael Jordan
- Win Shares: 214.0
- Points: 32,292
- Steals: 2,514
- Achievements: 6× NBA champion, 5× MVP, 14× All-Star, 10× scoring champion
Jordan was primarily a shooting guard known for his all-round scoring ability, defensive skills, and clutch performances.
His athleticism, killer-mindset, and will to win were unmatched. Jordan’s ability to perform under pressure made him one of the greatest closers in basketball history.
4. Wilt Chamberlain
- Win Shares: 247.3
- Points: 31,419
- Rebounds: 23,924 (all-time rebounding leader)
- Achievements: 2× NBA champion, 4× MVP, 13× All-Star, 7× scoring champion.
Wilt was a center known for his extraordinary physical prowess and statistical dominance.
He was an unstoppable scorer and rebounder, using his size and strength to overpower opponents.
Chamberlain’s agility for a man of his stature was also noteworthy, making him one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
5. Karl Malone
- Win Shares: 234.6
- Points: 36,928 (second all-time leading scorer)
- Rebounds: 14,968
- Achievements: 2× MVP, 14× All-Star.
Malone, a power forward, was known as “The Mailman” because he always delivered.
He was renowned for his physical strength and durability, consistently scoring and rebounding at high levels throughout his career. Malone’s partnership with John Stockton in the pick-and-roll offense became legendary.
6. Tim Duncan
- Win Shares: 206.4
- Points: 26,496
- Rebounds: 15,091
- Blocks: 3,020
- Achievements: 5× NBA champion, 2× MVP, 15× All-Star.
Duncan, a power forward/center, was known for his fundamental skills, earning him the nickname “The Big Fundamental.”
He was a master of bank shots, solid defense, and rebounding. Duncan’s quiet leadership and consistent performance helped define the Spurs’ culture of success.
7. Dirk Nowitzki
- Win Shares: 206.3
- Points: 31,560
- Rebounds: 11,489
- Achievements: NBA champion (2011), MVP (2007), 14× All-Star.
Dirk was a power forward who revolutionized the position with his shooting ability. Standing nearly seven feet tall, his signature fadeaway jump shot was nearly unblockable.
Nowitzki’s ability to score from the outside stretched defenses like no big man before him.
8. Shaquille O’Neal
- Win Shares: 181.7
- Points: 28,596
- Rebounds: 13,099
- Blocks: 2,732
- Achievements: 4× NBA champion, MVP (2000), 15× All-Star.
Shaquille, a center, was one of the most physically dominant players in the history of the NBA. Known for his size, strength, and athleticism, Shaq could overpower nearly any opponent in the paint.
His playful personality and charisma made him a fan favorite.
9. Bill Russell
- Win Shares: 163.5
- Points: 14,522
- Rebounds: 21,620
- Achievements: 11× NBA champion, 5× MVP, 12× All-Star.
Russell, a center, was best known for his defensive abilities, particularly his shot-blocking and rebounding.
He wasn’t the most prolific scorer, but his ability to alter the opponent’s shots and control the paint made him the cornerstone of the Celtics’ defense and their championship dynasty.
10. Kevin
- Win Shares: 191.4
- Points: 26,071
- Rebounds: 14,662
- Blocks: 2,037
- Achievements: NBA champion (2008), MVP (2004), 15× All-Star.
Garnett, a power forward, was known for his intensity and defensive versatility. He could defend multiple positions, rebound, and contribute offensively both inside and from mid-range.
Garnett’s passion and competitive nature were infectious, significantly influencing his teams’ defensive identity.
Find this interesting, check out the players with the highest PER in NBA history and the players with the highest Usage Rate in NBA history.
