When diving into the conversation about the best all-around guards in the NBA by decade, you realize just how special this league has been to witness. Trust me, there's no way you can discuss these incredible players without getting into some serious numbers and mind-blowing performances.
In the 1960s, there was Oscar Robertson, also known as "The Big O." The man averaged a triple-double over an entire season, which is a feat that still blows my mind. We're talking about someone who, in the 1961-62 season, averaged 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game. Those are godly numbers, and it's no wonder he’s often touted as one of the best. I still remember reading about how he led the Cincinnati Royals in every statistical category except blocked shots. Imagine, the only thing missing was blocks!
Moving into the 1970s, Clyde "The Glide" Frazier took over, bringing a unique blend of style and substance to the game. This was the era of funky, fast-paced basketball, and Frazier was the epitome of cool. He led the Knicks to two NBA championships and was known for his defensive prowess. During the 1970 NBA Finals, he performed a legendary Game 7, recording 36 points, 19 assists, and 7 rebounds. That's the stuff legends are made of, seriously.
The 1980s belonged to Magic Johnson, without a doubt. Magic didn't just play the game; he changed it. Standing at 6’9”, he redefined what a guard could be. His passing was uncanny, racking up an average of 11.2 assists per game throughout the decade. It was more than the numbers, though. Magic's ability to run Showtime Lakers with guys like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and James Worthy was pure basketball poetry in motion. I mean, his no-look passes still get featured in highlight reels today.
Then came the 1990s, and with that, Michael Jordan. Now, I know you’re thinking MJ was more of a shooting guard, but how can you ignore his all-around game? During this decade, he led the Bulls to six NBA championships. His scoring? Off the charts, with a career average of 30.1 points per game. But let's not forget his defensive accolades, like when he won the Defensive Player of the Year in 1988. Jordan could drop 50 on you and then lock you down on the other end. That’s versatility right there.
Entering the 2000s, the conversation gets interesting with guys like Kobe Bryant vs. Allen Iverson. Kobe, of course, mirrored much of Jordan’s game but added his own flair. Scoring titles, MVPs, and five NBA championships secure his legacy. However, let me not sleep on AI. Allen Iverson revolutionized the game with his crossovers and fearless attitude. He scored 26.7 points per game over his career and was relentless on the court, often sacrificing his body despite being only 6 feet tall.
Now, let's talk about the 2010s. While opinions may diverge, I'd cast my vote for Stephen Curry, who revolutionized the game with his three-point shooting. Beyond the arc, his accuracy is absurd, shooting over 43% for his career. But it’s not just about scoring. Steph's ball-handling, ability to space the floor, and impact on team dynamics make him a standout. The guy led the Warriors to three NBA championships and holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single season. Watching him pull up from 30 feet without hesitation is just unreal.
These players didn't just put up numbers; they transformed the way the game was played and viewed. If you're a basketball junkie like me, you know how special it is to witness these talents evolve the sport we love. One can endlessly debate who's the best, but these guards have elevated the NBA through sheer will, skill, and unyielding determination. For more engaging discussions about basketball and other sports, check out arena plus.