NBA Betting Advice & Betting Systems

Players With Highest Win Shares In NBA History

April 20, 2024

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

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.

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.

2. LeBron James

LeBron is an all-around player who excels in virtually 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.

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.

3. Michael Jordan

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.

Win Shares: 214.0
Points: 32,292
Steals: 2,514
Achievements: 6× NBA champion, 5× MVP, 14× All-Star, 10× scoring champion

4. Wilt Chamberlain

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.

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.

5. Karl Malone

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.

Win Shares: 234.6
Points: 36,928 (second all-time leading scorer)
Rebounds: 14,968
Achievements: 2× MVP, 14× All-Star.

6. Tim Duncan

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.

Win Shares: 206.4
Points: 26,496
Rebounds: 15,091
Blocks: 3,020
Achievements: 5× NBA champion, 2× MVP, 15× All-Star.

7. Dirk Nowitzki

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.

Win Shares: 206.3
Points: 31,560
Rebounds: 11,489
Achievements: NBA champion (2011), MVP (2007), 14× All-Star.

8. Shaquille O’Neal

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.

Win Shares: 181.7
Points: 28,596
Rebounds: 13,099
Blocks: 2,732
Achievements: 4× NBA champion, MVP (2000), 15× All-Star.

9. Bill Russell

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.

Win Shares: 163.5
Points: 14,522
Rebounds: 21,620
Achievements: 11× NBA champion, 5× MVP, 12× All-Star.

10. Kevin Garnett

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.