In a league that’s often measured by rings, we look at the 30 best players in NBA history that never won a championship in their career
Though it may feel like eons ago, the narrative around LeBron James was all about winning an NBA Championship. Sure, he was arguably the most physically gifted basketball player to grace the hardwood, but how many rings was he wearing? After two titles with the Miami Heat and then finally bringing a championship to the Cleveland Cavaliers after returning home, that narrative no longer exists.
While that may not take the pressure off of James on a yearly basis, it does change the scope through which we now view his legacy. For better or worse, titles matter when it comes to the legacies of NBA players.
It’s a team game, without question. Winning a championship requires five guys that all buy in and perform cohesively. But at the same time, not having a ring is detrimental to an individual’s legacy in the league. There’s something to be said for a player being able to lead his team to the pinnacle of the NBA. It’s similar to the argument that team success is a factor in deciding the MVP for a given season.
While important, though, it’s not the definitive measure for greatness. Not having a championship listed among a player’s accomplishments will keep them out of the conversation as the greatest NBA player ever, surely. However, there are numerous great players in the history of the league that are ringless. These are the 30 best that fall into that category.
Note: All stats used are per Basketball-Reference.com
30. Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony begins this list and fittingly so. He’s one of the most infuriating and complex players that the NBA has ever seen. In terms of simply looking at his talent, he’s been an absolute force ever since entering the league after one year at Syracuse. Over his career, he’s developed a fantastic ability to both knock down outside shots with consistency while still being a wrecking ball in the post, with the strength and skill set to succeed in that regard.
Looking at the stats alone, it’s hard not to be impressed with the the consistency and proficiency that Anthony has displayed throughout. Averaging 24.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game on 45.2 percent shooting and 34.6 percent 3-point shooting over 14 seasons is nothing to scoff at — not even close in fact. When it comes to Melo, whether it was with the Denver Nuggets or New York Knicks, it’s never the statistical output that’s held him back.
Unfortunately, the perception that Anthony isn’t consumed by winning has largely proven to be accurate. He’s a player who seems perfectly content with playing out his days in big cities and cashing big paychecks. If any normal human being were to choose that life, no one could blame them. With that said, more is expected from a generational-type talent like Anthony. His disinterest in titles has landed him on this list. What’s more, he’s the most likely current player on this list to not disqualify himself.