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Kobe Bryant -

The basketball legend tragically died in a helicopter crash on January 26, alongside his daughter Gianna and seven others. The 18-time all-star was one of the most brilliant players in NBA history.

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Shaquille O'Neal -

Shaq's dominance was second to none. That's why he's one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

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Charles Barkley -

"The Round Mound of Rebound" is one of only four players in NBA history with at least 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 4,000 assists.

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Bill Russell -

Bill Russell won 11 NBA titles with the Boston Celtics. He's widely regarded as one of the best ever in his sport.

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Bob Pettit -

Bob Pettit was the first player to be named the NBA's Most Valuable Player.

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Chris Paul -

"CP3" is arguably the best point guard of his generation.

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Stephen Curry -

Curry has been named the NBA's Most Valuable Player twice, and is quite possibly the best shooter in NBA history. 

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Russell Westbrook -

In the 2017-18 season, Westbrook became the only player to have ever averaged a triple-double twice in his career.

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Elgin Baylor -

Baylor helped the Los Angeles Lakers reach the NBA Finals eight times. He also played in 11 NBA All-Star Games.

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Reggie Miller -

Miller is one of the greatest shooters and scorers in the Indiana Pacers' history.

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Kevin Durant -

One of the greatest players of his generation, Durant has an average of 27.0 points per game.

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Dirk Nowitzki -

The German big man played a crucial role in the Dallas Mavericks winning the 2011 NBA Finals.

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John Stockton -

The point guard par excellence is in the top 10 for career steals per game.

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Karl Malone -

"The Mailman" sits in third place in the NBA value over replacement player statistic, behind only Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

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Kevin Garnett -

Also known as the "The Big Ticket," "The Kid," and "KG," Garnett made the All-Star team in just his second season.

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Dwyane Wade -

Wade has recently retired, with an average of 22.0 points per game.

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Scottie Pippen -

Pippen played a crucial role in the Chicago Bulls' six NBA championship wins in the '90s. He was a member of the NBA All-Defensive First Team eight times!

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Julius Erving -

"Dr. J" scored an average 22.0 points per game in 11 NBA seasons.

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Jerry West -

West is the only player to have ever won the Finals MVP award while playing for the losing team. This was in 1969.

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David Robinson -

"The Admiral" went down in history as one of the best San Antonio Spurs players ever.

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Oscar Robertson -

With 181 triple doubles, "The Big O" is yet to have his record beaten.

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Hakeem Olajuwon -

Nigeria-born Hakeem Olajuwon had amazing footwork for such a big player.

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Wilt Chamberlain -

A dominant giant in his time, Chamberlain is still the NBA's best rebounder.

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Larry Bird -

Besides Bill Russell, "Larry Legend" is probably the Boston Celtics' most iconic player of all time.

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Tim Duncan -

There's a reason why Shaquille O'Neal  dubbed Tim Duncan as "The Big Fundamental." Duncan's skills were indeed outstanding!

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Magic Johnson -

One of the NBA's best all-around players ever, the Lakers' point guard became an idol in the sport.

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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar -

Another NBA living legend, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar still holds the record for the highest number of points scored, with 38,387.

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LeBron James -

LeBron James will go down in history as one of the greatest the sport has ever known (if not the actual greatest).

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Michael Jordan -

MJ is often quoted as the greatest basketball player of all time. Jordan won six championships with the Chicago Bulls, and is a true living legend of the sport. 

Now, find out why 23 will always be his number.

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