Who Are the Three Most Influential NBA Players of the 21st Century?

At the beginning of the 21st century, the NBA was left with a large hole to fill after the retirement of Michael Jordan and the dismantling of the Chicago Bulls. There were a few heir apparents to become the new face of the league, but the title was up for grabs. From Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant to Tim Duncan, to the modern era of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, the NBA has been graced with legends and legendary teams of the game. Who are the three most influential players of the 21st century?

3. Stephen Curry

Steph Curry revolutionized the modern game with the three-pointer, for better or for worse. Over a career that currently spans more than 16 years, Curry is the central piece in one of the league’s most dominant dynasties. A two-time league MVP, the first-ever unanimous regular-season MVP in 2016, four-time champion, and a Finals MVP winner, Curry has accomplished it all on the court. Off the court, he became a global symbol that skill is more important than size. Standing at just six foot three, Curry’s size was a real concern when the Warriors drafted him ninth overall in 2009. However, after an injury-plagued first few years, Curry broke out as one of the top players in the league. He became a global icon for the NBA, a highly-marketed star by Under Armour, and one of the NBA’s most beloved players. When the point guard eventually decided to end his playing days, he will be remembered as one of the greatest guards ever to step foot on the court.

2. Kobe Bryant

The Black Mamba. Kobe Bryant became a symbol for grit, resilience, and hard work on and off the court. The lifelong Laker was a part of five championship teams during his tenure, two of which he claimed the Finals MVP. Apart from other memorable moments in his career like his 81-point game, 60-point farewell game, and his strength to hit two free throws after tearing his Achilles, Bryant has given NBA fans many memorable moments to cherish him. Through his play, he became one of the greatest players ever and dominated the league during his prime. Half of an all-time duo in NBA history, his partnership with Shaquille O’Neal has become a central talking point in his everlasting legacy.

1. LeBron James

“The Chosen One”. A title James received before he’d ever stepped foot on an NBA court. Since being drafted first overall in 2003, no player has received more attention than The King himself. Over his illustrious career, James claimed four championships, four Finals MVPs, four regular-season MVPs, three Olympic gold medals, and became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Off the court, he's become a philanthropist, businessman, and social activist. From ‘The Decision’ to the opening of his “I PROMISE” school, James seems to dominate headlines worldwide. As James’ career begins to wind down, he’s left a mark on the game of basketball that few can match.