The best shooting guards in NBA history have shaped the game with their scoring ability, leadership, and relentless drive to win. From explosive scorers to defensive juggernauts, these players have left a lasting legacy on the hardwood. Shooting guards provide offense for their teams, and are essential NBA picks.
In this article, we’ll count down the top 10 shooting guards of all time, examining their standout careers, unforgettable moments, and the impact they’ve had on the NBA. Whether through championships, accolades, or iconic plays, these legends are truly the cream of the crop at the 2-guard position.
10. Reggie Miller
Career Stats: 18.2 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.0 APG; 47.1 FG%, 39.5 FG3%, 88.8 FT%
Notable Achievements: 5x All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
Reggie Miller sits on the tenth spot on the best shooting guards in NBA of all-time list. Miller was a revolutionary shooter, particularly from beyond the arc. He is known for his incredible ability to hit clutch three-pointers, making him one of the greatest long-range shooters of all time.
He ranked among the NBA’s all-time leaders in three-pointers made for many years (he retired in 2005 as the second all-time leader behind only Ray Allen, though eventually surpassed by Stephen Curry). His quick release and deadly accuracy made him a constant threat on the floor.
Miller was known for his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, especially in the playoffs. His most iconic moment came in the 1995 playoffs when he scored 8 points in just 9 seconds. This led to the Indiana Pacers winning over the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. This, along with his overall poise under pressure, cemented his reputation as one of the game’s most clutch players.
Miller spent all of his 18-season NBA career with the Indiana Pacers, making him one of the franchise’s best players. He averaged 18.2 points per game over his career, maintaining his scoring ability and shooting touch as he got older. Miller was a model of durability and longevity, playing at a high level into his late 30s.
Miller was also known for his high basketball IQ. He was a smart player who could read defenses, create opportunities for his teammates, and take advantage of matchups. His off-the-ball movement was exceptional, making it difficult for defenders to keep up with him.
9. George Gervin
Career Stats: 25.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.6 APG; 50.4 FG%, 27.1 FG3%, 84.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 9x All-Star, 10x All-NBA selections, 4 NBA Scoring titles
George Gervin, also known as “The Iceman,” is regarded as one of the best shooting guards in the NBA. Gervin’s unique skill set, consistency, and knack of scoring silky smooth buckets significantly impacted the game.
He led the NBA in scoring for four seasons (1978–1980, 1982) and averaged 25.1 points per game over his career. His signature move, the finger roll, became iconic, and he could score in a variety of ways. Gervin utilized finesse, acrobatics, and elite mid-range shooting to rack up points.
Gervin’s nickname, “The Iceman,” reflected his calm and composed approach to the game. He was a master at scoring without appearing rushed. His ability to make tough shots look effortless, especially in the clutch, made him a constant threat on the floor. Moreover, Gervin was a remarkably efficient scorer, especially for his era.
Gervin played for 14 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the San Antonio Spurs, and was a model of consistency. He averaged over 20 points per game for 11 consecutive seasons, a testament to his sustained excellence over a long period.
While Gervin was mostly known for his scoring, he was also a solid defender, contributing to the overall success of his teams. He wasn’t just a one-dimensional player, as he was capable of defending multiple positions and was an important piece of the Spurs’ defense during his tenure.
Gervin’s playing style and scoring ability influenced many future generations of players. He was one of the first to demonstrate the importance of the finger roll and finesse around the basket. Such technique has since become a staple of scoring moves for later shooting guards.
8. Vince Carter
Career Stats: 16.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.1 APG; 43.5 FG%, 37.1 FG3%, 79.8 FT%
Notable Achievements: 8x All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections, 2000 NBA Slam Dunk Champion
Vince Carter is widely regarded as one of the best shooting guards in the NBA of all-time. His scoring ability, athleticism, longevity, made an impact on the game.
Carter was one of the most athletic players in NBA history during his prime. His explosive leaping ability and agility allowed him to perform incredible dunks. This made him one of the most exciting players to watch, especially once he’s slashing to the rim.
His iconic dunks in the 2000 Slam Dunk Contest, including the now-famous reverse 360 windmill dunk. Most fans, NBA players, and analysts regard his performance in the dunk contest as one of the best ones to date. This cemented his reputation as the best dunker in NBA history.
Apart from dunking, Carter was also a prolific scorer throughout his career. He averaged over 20 points per game in 10 different seasons, and could score from all areas of the court. He averaged a career-high 27.6 points per game during the 2000-2001 season and maintained impressive scoring numbers even as his career progressed.
One of the most impressive aspects of Carter’s career was his longevity. He played for 22 seasons (1998–2020), which is remarkable in a sport known for its physical demands. Over those years, he maintained a high level of performance and was able to adapt his game. He transitioned from a high-flying scorer to a more reliable shooter and mentor for younger players.
7. Klay Thompson
Career Stats: 19.2 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.3 APG; 45.1 FG%, 41.2 FG3%, 86.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 5x All-Star, 4x All-NBA selections
*still active
Klay Thompson lands on ninth place of the best shooting guards in the NBA all-time list. His shooting ability, defensive prowess, and contributions to his team’s success have cemented his place as an all-time great.
Klay Thompson is widely regarded as one of the best pure shooters in NBA history. He holds numerous shooting records and is particularly known for his incredible three-point shooting. His ability to catch and shoot with exceptional accuracy has made him one of the most dangerous perimeter players in the game.
Thompson set an NBA record for most points in a quarter (37 points in a single quarter against the Sacramento Kings in 2015) and holds the record for most three-pointers made in a single game by a Warrior (14).
Alongside his teammate Stephen Curry, Thompson formed one of the most lethal shooting duos in NBA history, famously known as the “Splash Brothers.” Their ability to make three-pointers from anywhere on the court changed the game’s approach to offense. Currently, teams prioritize the three-ball more than ever. This partnership has helped revolutionize the way basketball is played in the modern NBA.
Thompson has been a crucial part of the Golden State Warriors’ success, helping lead the team to four NBA Championships (2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022). He played a central role in the Warriors’ back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018, where his shooting and defense were pivotal.
6. James Harden
Career Stats: 24.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.2 APG; 43.9 FG%, 36.2 FG3%, 86.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x MVP, 1x Sixth Man of the Year, 3x NBA scoring champion (2018-2020), 11x All-Star, 8x All-NBA selections
*still active
James Harden lands on the best shooting guards in NBA of all-time list at sixth place. A scoring machine and elite playmaker, Harden is known for his offensive versatility and ability to take over games.
His ability to score from almost anywhere on the court. Whether it’s finishing at the rim, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, or swishing three-pointers, Harden is nearly impossible to defend.
He has averaged over 25 points per game in each season since 2013, with multiple seasons over 30 points per game. His ability to generate points in many different ways makes him a constant offensive threat.
Harden’s step-back three-pointer and quickness off the dribble make him an exceptional scorer. His step-back is one of the most lethal moves in the NBA. Whenever he uses this move, he creates space for a clean shot even against tight defenses.
Additionally, his footwork, ball-handling, and ability to change direction are all elite. Harden’s high basketball IQ lets him create his own shot or consistently get to the free-throw line.
As a shooting guard, he is an exceptional passer. He regularly tallies double-digit assists, which is rare for a player at his position. Harden has often acted as the primary ball handler for his teams, especially during his time with the Houston Rockets.
This resulted in seasons where he averaged over 7 assists per game. This makes Harden a great option for NBA betting lines, since he can cover scoring and assists. His vision and ability to create opportunities for teammates make him one of the deadliest offensive players in NBA history.
5. Allen Iverson
Career Stats: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG; 42.5 FG%, 31.3 FG3%, 78.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x MVP, 11x All-Star, 8x All-NBA selections, 4 NBA Scoring titles (1999, 2001, 2002, 2005)
Allen Iverson is our fifth pick for the best shooting guards in NBA of all-time list. Known for his incredible scoring ability and toughness, Iverson is one of the most electrifying guards in NBA history.
Despite being undersized for a shooting guard (standing at just 6 feet tall), Iverson was a prolific scorer. Iverson could drive to the basket and finish through contact with an incredible blend of speed, craftiness, and body control. He could also hit mid-range jumpers and three-pointers, although he was primarily known for his ability to attack the rim.
Iverson averaged over 20 points per game in every season of his career except for his rookie year. He led the league in scoring four times (2001, 2002, 2005, 2006), and was also a constant threat to get to the free-throw line. This is attributed to his ability to slash in the lane to draw fouls which allowed him to rack up points.
Iverson’s toughness and competitive spirit are a huge part of why he is remembered as one of the best ever. Despite being one of the smaller guards in the NBA, Iverson never backed down from a challenge. During his prime, Iverson would often defy NBA odds by suddenly exploding for a huge game.
He was also known for his fearlessness, taking on much bigger players and attacking the basket relentlessly. His willingness to play through injuries and his tenacity on both ends of the court made him an iconic figure in the NBA.
4. Jerry West
Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 6.7 APG; 47.4 FG%, N/A FG3%, 84.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 14x All-Star, 17x All-NBA selections
Jerry West is the fourth best NBA shooting guard of all-time. A great scorer and clutch performer, West’s all-around game and his clutchness in critical moments make him an all-time great. Jerry West was one of the best and most versatile scorers of his era. He had a well-rounded offensive game, capable of scoring from almost anywhere on the court. West could drive to the basket, shoot from mid-range and long-range, which was a rarity for his time.
His scoring ability was highlighted by the fact that he averaged over 27 points per game during his career. West also led the league in scoring during the 1969-1970 season with 31.2 points per game.
West’s nickname, “Mr. Clutch,” came from his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, particularly during the playoffs. One of his most iconic moments came during the 1970 NBA Finals, where the game went to overtime. West scored 53 points in a losing effort, but showcased his offensive arsenal.
He had a knack for making key plays in crunch-time situations, cementing his reputation as one of the NBA’s most reliable clutch performers. His most famous moment came in the 1970s when he hit a half-court shot to force overtime in Game 3 of the 1970 Finals.
West remains known as the “Logo” due to the silhouette of him dribbling on the NBA logo. His ability to deliver in clutch moments helped define his legacy.
3. Dwyane Wade
Career Stats: 22.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 5.4 APG; 48.0 FG%, 29.3 FG3%, 76.5 FT%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 13x All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections
Dwyane Wade lands on third place on the best shooting guards in NBA of all-time list. Known for his explosive first step and finishing ability, Wade was exceptional at slashing towards the basket to score. Many regard him as one of the best slashing guards to ever play the game. His combination of speed, footwork, and strength allowed him to attack the rim with ease, even against larger defenders.
Wade also developed a reliable mid-range jumper and an effective step-back move, which made him harder to guard. Throughout his career, he averaged over 22 points per game and was consistently a top scorer for his team. In his prime, he could score in a variety of ways. Wade would get his points getting to the free-throw line, hitting jumpers, or finishing at the rim.
Wade’s greatest individual accomplishment came in 2006 when he led the Miami Heat to their first-ever NBA Championship. His performance during their battle against the Dallas Mavericks earned him Finals MVP honors.
During the 2006 Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, Wade was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 34.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Moreover, he led the Heat to a 4-2 series win after overcoming a 0-2 deficit. His Finals performance is one of the best in NBA history.
Beyond 2006, Wade’s success continued, becoming a key figure in the Heat’s back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013. Playing alongside LeBron James and Chris Bosh, Wade’s leadership and veteran presence helped guide the Heat to those championships.
2. Kobe Bryant
Career Stats: 25.0PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG; 44.7 FG%, 32.9 FG3%, 83.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 18x All-Star, 28x All-NBA selections, 2x NBA Scoring Champion (2006, 2007), 1x NBA Slam Dunk Contest Champion (1997)
“The Black Mamba” gets the second place on our list of the best NBA shooting guards of all-time. Kobe Bryant is one of the most dynamic and skilled scorers the NBA has ever seen. His ability to score in virtually every way possible makes him one of the most complete offensive players of all time. Kobe can hit three-pointers, mid-range jumpers, attack and finish at the rim, and frequently draw fouls for free throws.
Kobe’s 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006 is the second-highest single-game scoring performance in NBA history, cementing his reputation as one of the most prolific scorers in the league.
His ability to perform in big moments is reflected in his five championships with the Lakers (2000, 2001, 2002, 2009, 2010). This ranks high for performances in the Playoffs for a shooting guard. Moreover, his 2009 and 2010 Finals MVP awards showcased his ability to dominate at the highest level.
Most notably, Bryant’s unrivaled work ethic and obsession with improving his game is synonymous with his name. His “Mamba Mentality” was a way of life that involved constantly pushing himself to be the best. This not only involved rigorous physical preparation but also through intense mental focus and discipline.
Kobe’s dedication to his craft allowed him to play at an elite level for two decades, making him one of the most consistent and enduring stars in NBA history.
1. Michael Jordan
Career Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG; 49.7 FG%, 32.7 FG3%, 83.5 FT%
Notable Achievements: 6x NBA Champion, 6x NBA Finals MVP, 5x MVP, 14x All-Star, 21x All-NBA selections, 10x NBA Scoring Champion (1987–1993, 1996–1998)
Unsurprisingly, “His Airness” Michael Jordan is first on the best shooting guards in NBA of all-time list. His unparalleled skills, along with his numerous championships and individual accolades, speaks why he’s top of the all-time shooting guard rankings.
Michael Jordan is widely considered the greatest scorer in basketball history. He led the NBA in scoring for 10 seasons and finished his career with an average of 30.1 points per game, the highest career scoring average in NBA history.
His offensive arsenal includes his signature mid-range jump shot, acrobatic finishes at the rim, fadeaways, and attacking the basket. Moreover, Jordan’s ability to score in transition, in the half-court, and under pressure was unmatched.
In the 1986-87 season, he averaged an astounding 37.1 points per game, and he was also known for his 63-point game in the 1986 playoffs against the Boston Celtics, which is still an iconic moment in NBA history.
One of the defining characteristics of Michael Jordan’s career was his ability to deliver in clutch moments. His performances in high-pressure situations, especially in the postseason, cemented his legacy as the greatest of all time.
Jordan owns two legendary game-winning shots in the NBA. The first one was over Craig Ehlo in the 1989 playoffs that made the Bulls advance to the next round, Meanwhile the second game-winner was over Bryon Russell in the 1998 Finals that sealed the Bulls’ sixth championship. These shots exemplify his ability to take over games in crucial moments.
Jordan’s six NBA championships and perfect 6-0 record in the NBA Finals are unparalleled in the history of the league.