This article sets out to track down the best NBA duos of all time, from Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen to Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili. In compiling this list, we’ll look at not just individual accolades or overall dominance, but their collective ability to come together and excel at the highest levels on the biggest stages.
We will also assess each duo’s longevity, including the staying power of the players in the league, as well as the impact each tandem had on the competitive landscape of the game.
The best NBA Duos of all time:
- Karl Malone & John Stockton
- Wilt Chamberlain & Jerry West
- Steph Curry & Kevin Durant
- Tim Duncan & Tony Parker
- Larry Bird & Kevin McHale
- Steph Curry & Klay Thompson
- LeBron James & Dwyane Wade
- Magic Johnson & Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
- Shaquille O’Neal & Kobe Bryant
- Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen
10. Karl Malone and John Stockton
Karl Malone and John Stockton are like two peas in a pod, widely regarded as one of the greatest duos in NBA history. The Hall of Fame pair spent their entire 18-year careers with the Utah Jazz, becoming known as the dynamic duo of the franchise. During their time together, they achieved some remarkable feats that will go down in league lore.
The ‘M&S’ connection was undeniable on court; they had grown up together and crafted their games to perfectly complement each other’s style. Their chemistry was electric and it helped them become one of basketball’s most iconic partnerships – playing side by side for 16 consecutive seasons and making playoffs all but once during that span.
The Dynamic Duo of the Utah Jazz
Karl Malone and John Stockton were a dynamic duo on the court, their chemistry undeniable. Together they led the Utah Jazz to the playoffs in 15 out of 16 consecutive seasons and reached the NBA Finals twice – an impressive feat. Malone was named an All-Star 14 times, won two MVP awards and earned five spots on the All-NBA First Team. Stockton’s individual successes included 10 All-Star appearances and he is still remembered as the NBA’s all-time leader in assists and steals – a record that will be hard to beat!
Record-breaking stats
The stats that Karl Malone and John Stockton achieved together? Unbelievable. Over their 16 years playing together, they combined for an astonishing 52,759 points, 11,764 assists, and 13,742 rebounds – more than any other duo in NBA history! But how do these stats compare to other duos in the league? Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant won three titles but only managed 54,976 points between them. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen won six titles yet still had fewer points with 56,073. This shows just how remarkable the stats of Karl Malone and John Stockton were!
9. Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West
When it comes to the greatest NBA duos, Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West are a force to be reckoned with. Before joining forces in 1968, they had already achieved individual success – Chamberlain winning two championships with the Philadelphia 76ers and West one championship with the Lakers. But when these two titans of basketball combined their talents, they became an unstoppable duo.
Chamberlain was a giant on the court, dominating opponents with his height and strength while averaging 24.3 points and 23.8 rebounds per game for the Lakers. Meanwhile, West was a masterful scorer who shot an impressive 49.7% from field during his time at LA – his leadership and clutch shooting were invaluable assets for the team’s success. Together they were like fire and ice; their individual accomplishments perfectly complementing each other to create something truly special on court that could not be stopped by any opponent or obstacle in its path!
The result? An eight-season partnership that saw them win six NBA titles together – including a then-record 69 games during 1971-72 season which culminated in 12 out of 14 playoff wins to clinch yet another title!
The Unstoppable Lakers
When Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West joined forces in 1968, they were like two pieces of a puzzle that fit together perfectly. Chamberlain was an unstoppable force on the court, bulldozing opponents with his height and strength while West was a masterful scorer, shooting with precision from the field. Their dominance during the 1971-72 season was undeniable; they achieved a then-record 69 wins during the regular season and went 12 for 14 in playoff games to clinch the NBA title. The deciding game saw 34 points from West and 24 points from Chamberlain – their contributions were invaluable for victory.
The legacy of this dynamic duo is etched into Lakers history forever; they helped bring six NBA Championships to Los Angeles and established them as one of basketball’s most successful franchises ever.
A Legendary Partnership
The partnership between Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West was legendary. Their styles of play were like night and day, yet they complemented each other perfectly – creating an unstoppable force on the court that led to six NBA titles for the Lakers.
Chamberlain was a giant on the court, dominating opponents with his height and strength, while West was a masterful scorer, shooting a career-high 49.7% from the field. His leadership and clutch shooting were invaluable for the Lakers’ success.
The duo of Chamberlain and West will remain one of the greatest in NBA history; their impact still felt today as they established the Lakers as one of basketball’s most successful franchises ever. Together they created an iconic partnership that will never be forgotten in NBA history.
8. Steph Curry and Kevin Durant
When the Golden State Warriors welcomed Kevin Durant to their team in 2016, it was like a dream come true. Steph Curry and KD formed one of the most powerful duos in NBA history, leaving an indelible mark on the league. Have you ever seen such success? They have been to five NBA Finals, winning three championships and six Western Conference Finals. Not only that, but they also hold records for highest win total in a single season and most three-pointers made in a game!
Curry and Durant are often compared to other legendary pairs like Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen, Magic Johnson & Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or Shaquille O’Neal & Kobe Bryant – making them the only duo to win back-to-back MVP awards at the NBA Finals (2017 & 2018). Truly remarkable!
The Golden State Warriors
When Steph Curry and Kevin Durant joined the Golden State Warriors in 2016, they brought their own individual superpowers to the team. Curry was a sharpshooter, playmaker and leader extraordinaire while Durant provided unstoppable scoring and rebounding. Together, they complement each other perfectly like two pieces of a puzzle – making the Warriors an even stronger force than before.
The duo’s presence propelled the team to unprecedented heights of success as they reached five NBA Finals in five years with three consecutive championships from 2017-2019. The Warriors had become one of the most dominant teams in NBA history thanks to Steph Curry and Kevin Durant!
A Force to be Reckoned With
The chemistry between Steph Curry and Kevin Durant was like a match made in heaven, shining through their individual accomplishments. Curry dazzled as a two-time MVP and six-time All-Star, while Durant dominated with two Finals MVPs and nine All-Star appearances.
Together they created an unstoppable force, crafting one of the most lethal offenses in the league while also boasting top-notch defensive abilities. This dynamic duo led the Warriors to six NBA Finals appearances, claiming five championships along the way. But how do they compare to other great NBA duos? Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen won six titles; Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul Jabbar won five; Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant won three – yet none could achieve what Curry and Durant did: winning three consecutive championships! It’s this feat that puts them in a class of their own – making them one of the greatest duos in NBA history.
7. Tim Duncan and Tony Parker
Tim Duncan and Tony Parker are a legendary NBA duo. The two joined forces in San Antonio in 2001 and together they achieved unprecedented success for over a decade. Both players were All-Stars, combining for five championships and seven conference finals appearances during their time as teammates.
Tim Duncan was selected to the All-Star game 10 times while Tony Parker earned eight nods – even sharing the MVP award at the 1993 All-Star Game! Their combination of defensive prowess from Duncan and offensive skill set from Parker created an unstoppable force that no one could contain.
The Spurs won five titles in just ten seasons with them on board, including overcoming Abdul-Jabbar’s ankle sprain during the 2003 Finals series to clinch victory. They remained teammates for six years, winning 733 regular season games and 269 playoff games together before parting ways in 2007. This dynamic duo will go down as one of the greatest pairings ever seen on court!
Spurs Greats
Tim Duncan and Tony Parker were chosen as All-Star teammates four times, and their influence on the Spurs was instantaneous. The two brought dynamic playmaking, veteran leadership, and championship experience to the team – propelling them to an elite level.
In just three years together, they steered the Spurs to the Western Conference Finals in 1998. And that’s only scratching the surface of what these two accomplished! Tim Duncan earned ten selections to the All-NBA First Team while Tony Parker made six All-Star appearances – a testament to how they raised up San Antonio’s game.
A Championship Run
The championship run of Tim Duncan and Tony Parker was legendary. The two helped the Spurs win five NBA titles in just ten seasons, with three consecutive championships from 2003 to 2007. During those years, they led the team to the NBA Finals three times and the Western Conference Finals twice – a feat that has yet to be matched.
Tim Duncan was a ten-time All-NBA First Team selection while Tony Parker earned six All-Star selections – together they won an incredible six NBA championships! Their dynamic partnership and unique chemistry made them one of the greatest duos in basketball history.
The championship run of Tim Duncan and Tony Parker cemented their legacy as one of the most successful teams in NBA history. It was an impressive feat that will go down in basketball lore forever, helping make the San Antonio Spurs one of the most iconic franchises ever seen on court.
6. Larry Bird and Kevin McHale
The duo of Larry Bird and Kevin McHale is like a dream team of NBA greatness. Their chemistry was undeniable, as if they could read each other’s minds on the court. Bird had an uncanny ability to make his teammates better while McHale used his physicality and post-up moves to dominate the low post. With perfect passes from Bird, McHale had more open looks at the basket – plus, double teams allowed him even more space.
This dynamic duo led the Boston Celtics to unprecedented success: five NBA Finals appearances and three titles! On top of that, their individual accomplishments were impressive too. Bird won three consecutive MVP awards from 1984 to 1986; McHale was an All-Star seven times; he averaged 7.4 rebounds per game; and Larry Bird shot threes with excellence (8.3 assists per game). Truly one of basketball’s greatest duos!
The Celtics Dynasty
The Celtics dynasty of the 1980s was a remarkable feat, one that revolutionized NBA history. Larry Bird and Kevin McHale were its driving forces, creating an unbeatable chemistry on the court. Bird’s shooting ability drew double teams, allowing McHale to have more open looks at the basket – he was an elite defender and rebounder who used his physicality and post-up moves to dominate the low post. Together they formed an unstoppable duo, virtually unbeatable in their prime.
An Undeniable Chemistry
The chemistry between Larry Bird and Kevin McHale was electric, like two magnets drawn together. Bird had the ability to make his teammates better while McHale used his physicality and post-up moves to dominate the low post. Bird’s passes were always on point, drawing double teams that opened up more space for McHale to shoot.
Bird won three consecutive MVP awards from 1984 to 1986 and was an excellent three-point shooter with 8.3 assists per game average. Meanwhile, McHale earned seven All-Star appearances and an average of 7.4 rebounds per game – a testament to his greatness in the paint. Together they achieved six NBA championships, five NBA Finals appearances, and three NBA titles – making them one of the greatest duos in basketball history!
Their chemistry on court was unparalleled; it played a major role in propelling the Celtics’ success over their rivals throughout their careers.
5. Steph Curry and Klay Thompson
Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, the iconic Splash Brothers, have become two of the most legendary duos in NBA history. When they joined forces on the Golden State Warriors in 2011, they magically transformed a perennial lottery team into an unstoppable powerhouse that became one of the greatest dynasties ever seen in basketball.
Curry, a 6-foot-3 guard from Davidson College, was selected with the seventh overall pick of 2009’s NBA Draft and quickly established himself as one of its most talented and electrifying players. His shooting prowess and ability to score from any spot on the court made him an instant fan favorite.
Thompson, a 6-foot-7 guard who was selected 11th overall during 2011’s draft season, immediately formed a dynamic duo with Curry. He proved to be an excellent defender and reliable shooter who could knock down shots from anywhere on court – their chemistry was undeniable! Together they led the Warriors to five consecutive NBA Finals appearances where they won three championships.
The Splash Brothers revolutionized basketball by breaking numerous records with their backcourt play; Curry broke the single season record for three pointers made while being named MVP twice (2015 & 2016) whereas Thompson shattered the record for three pointers made in a single playoff game plus earned All-NBA First Team selection in 2015!
The Splash Brothers
The Splash Brothers, Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, are two of the greatest duos to ever grace the NBA. Revolutionizing basketball with their high-octane offense and remarkable shooting ability, Curry was the engine that drove it all – singlehandedly changing the game with his unparalleled scoring prowess. He shattered records for three-pointers made in a season and earned MVP honors in 2015 and 2016.
Thompson complemented Curry perfectly, his defensive skill set and reliable shooting making them one of the most feared pairs on court. His efforts were rewarded when he was selected to the All-NBA First Team in 2015.
Together they propelled the Warriors into one of history’s most successful dynasties; five consecutive NBA Finals appearances culminating in three championships cementing their legacy as one of basketball’s greatest duos ever seen.
A Historic Legacy
The Splash Brothers, Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, have left an unforgettable legacy. Their dynamic backcourt play and remarkable shooting prowess revolutionized basketball, making them two of the greatest duos in NBA history. This success with the Warriors set a new standard for NBA dynasties – three championships and five consecutive Finals appearances – previously only achieved by LeBron James and Dwyane Wade’s Miami Heat duo.
Their chemistry on court was unparalleled, leading to three titles that will never be forgotten. The Splash Brothers have forever changed the game of basketball, leaving an indelible mark on both the Warriors and the entire NBA.
4. LeBron James and Dwyane Wade
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade are a legendary NBA duo, their on-court chemistry sparking three consecutive championship titles for the Miami Heat. In just four years, they achieved unprecedented success – culminating in a 2011 title win and an incredible three-peat from 2012 to 2014.
Their stats were record-breaking; LeBron James averaging 27 points per game and Dwyane Wade 22. James was credited with showing James the way. Wade is the way to lead a team to an NBA title, making them one of history’s best duos.
But why aren’t they higher on the list? Losses to Dallas Mavericks in 2011 Finals and Spurs in 2013 Finals played a part – as did Kevin Durant joining Golden State Warriors in 2017, marking the beginning of the end for this remarkable pair.
Miami Heat Legends
The LeBron James and Dwyane Wade duo is one of the most legendary in NBA history. What did they do? They took the Miami Heat to unprecedented heights, with Wade already having led them to two Finals appearances before James joined in 2010-2011. That same season, they won their first championship together – a feat that was even more impressive when you consider who they were up against: Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers!
Individually, both LeBron James and Dwyane Wade had plenty of success during their time in Miami. James earned two MVP awards while Wade made multiple All-Star appearances. Together though? Unstoppable! The pair racked up five NBA titles over the course of their career – an incredible achievement for any team facing such fierce competition.
Unparalleled Success
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade – two of the greatest NBA players ever – were on a mission to become the first duo in history to win four consecutive titles. But their quest was cut short when they lost to the Mavericks in six games during the 2011 NBA Finals.
Still, their time together in Miami resulted in an impressive six championships and two MVP honors for James. This dynamic duo left an indelible mark on basketball that will never be forgotten.
Though they didn’t reach their goal of three straight titles, LeBron and D-Wade still managed to lead the Heat to unprecedented success during their four seasons together – a testament to their strong chemistry both on and off court.
3. Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
The Showtime Lakers, a powerhouse pairing of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, are one of the greatest duos to ever grace the NBA. This dynamic duo combined for six championships during their ten-season stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Magic Johnson, a 6’9″ point guard, was an unparalleled player in NBA history. His ability to make plays was unrivaled and he was essential to the Showtime Lakers offense. During his regular season career, Magic averaged 20.2 points, 7.4 assists and 7.4 rebounds per game – earning him two MVP awards and twelve All-Star selections along the way.
Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s dominance in the paint made him an integral part of LA’s defense; at 7’2″, he is still remembered as one of basketball’s all-time leading scorers with 19.4 points per game on average throughout his regular season career – not to mention six MVPs and nineteen All-Star appearances!
The combination of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul Jabbar resulted in 224 wins against 88 losses over their ten seasons together – plus five championship titles between them along with three Finals MVP awards! It goes without saying that this winning combo propelled the Lakers into becoming one of basketball’s most successful franchises ever seen!
The Showtime Lakers
The Showtime Lakers, a legendary combination of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, were one of the most feared duos in NBA history. Magic revolutionized the point guard position with his unique style while Kareem completely changed how centers played.
During their ten-season tenure, this dynamic duo averaged an impressive 39.6 points, 19.8 assists and 14.8 rebounds per game – leading the Lakers to playoffs every season from 1978 to 1988 and winning five championships in seven seasons! They even managed to defeat Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls in 1991 for their fifth title together.
Not only did they win five championships, but also three Finals MVP awards; two for Magic Johnson (1987 & 1989) and one for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1985). The Showtime Lakers reached the Western Conference Finals seven times and made it all the way to the NBA Finals six times – cementing their legacy as one of basketball’s greatest duos ever!
A Winning Combination
Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were a match made in basketball heaven. Their ten-season tenure with the Lakers was nothing short of legendary, as they won five NBA championships and three Finals MVP awards – helping to make the Lakers one of the most successful teams ever.
In the playoffs, this dynamic duo combined for an impressive 41.6 points, 19.7 assists, and 15.3 rebounds per game – key stats that led them to six NBA Finals victories and three consecutive titles in the 1980s. Not only did Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar win these championships together, but they also each took home a Finals MVP award: Magic Johnson winning it in 1987 and 1989; Kareem Abdul-Jabbar taking it home in 1985.
Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s success is unparalleled by any other duo in NBA history – their five titles and three MVP awards are proof enough! They truly stand out among all other duos as one of the greatest combinations ever seen on a basketball court.
2. Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant
Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant were a match made in basketball heaven. Their chemistry and synergy on the court was like two pieces of a puzzle coming together, with O’Neal’s powerful presence in the paint and Bryant’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc. Together, they formed one of the greatest duos in NBA history – leading their Los Angeles Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002.
The Shaq-Kobe Lakers achieved unparalleled success during this period, setting numerous records and earning multiple individual honors, including nine MVP awards between them. However, due to contract issues, O’Neal left after the 2003-04 season – leaving an irreplaceable void that had a major impact on their chances of winning another title. Without his presence in the paint, they struggled to make it past the Western Conference Finals.
The Dynamic Duo of LA
Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant were an unstoppable force, a powerful duo that dominated the court. Their individual strengths complemented each other perfectly; O’Neal was a formidable presence in the paint while Bryant provided outside shooting and leadership. Together, they completely transformed the Lakers and led them to three consecutive championships.
The two set numerous records during their time together, including the longest win streak in franchise history. They also combined for nine MVP awards – O’Neal was named Finals MVP all three times, while Bryant earned regular-season MVP honors in 2008.
Unfortunately, their partnership didn’t last long; after the 2003-04 season, contract issues forced O’Neal out of Los Angeles. This had a major impact on the team’s chances of winning another title – without his presence in the paint, they struggled to make it past the Western Conference Finals.
Three Peat Champions
Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant’s three-year stint with the Los Angeles Lakers was nothing short of legendary. The two combined for nine MVP awards and led the Lakers to an unprecedented three consecutive NBA titles from 2000 to 2002, making them one of the most dominant teams in basketball history. During this period, O’Neal was named the NBA Finals MVP in all three championship runs while Bryant earned regular-season MVP honors in 2008.
What is their legacy? Undeniably one of the greatest duos ever seen on a basketball court! Their individual and collective greatness is still felt today – five NBA titles are a testament to that fact. Even now, they remain as one of the most successful teams in NBA history – a true symbol of excellence!
1. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen
Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen were a well-oiled machine, one of the greatest NBA duos in history. During their time together with the Chicago Bulls, they won six NBA championships and became one of the most successful duos ever. Jordan was an unstoppable force on the court – a six-time NBA champion, six-time Finals MVP, and five-time NBA MVP who averaged 30.1 points per game throughout his career.
He was also an excellent defender, winning Defensive Player of the Year in 1988. Pippen was Jordan’s perfect partner – a seven-time All Star and three-time All Defensive selection who could do it all on the court; averaging 2 steals per game for his career as well as 5 assists per game.
The two had incredible chemistry that allowed them to work together harmoniously; Jordan leading while Pippen drove their offense forward. This combination helped them carry their team to victory in clutch moments – Jordan known for his clutch shots and Pippen for his defensive intensity and ability to make plays when it mattered most. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen are undoubtedly one of the best NBA duos ever; leaving behind an unforgettable legacy that will live on forevermore!
Summary
The debate surrounding the top NBA duos of all time has been ongoing since the league began, with fans endlessly debating who deserves the top spot. While opinions can differ, the list of duos in this article highlights some of the greatest partnerships in NBA history. From Steph Curry and Kevin Durant’s three consecutive championships to the unstoppable Lakers dynasty of Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, there is no shortage of iconic duos who have left an undeniable mark on the game of basketball.
However, after careful consideration, the unmistakable duo of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen truly stands out as the best NBA duo of all time. Their six championship-winning partnership with the Bulls was emblematic of their individual brilliance, with Jordan’s ridiculous scoring abilities complemented by Pippen’s brilliant two-way play. With five MVPs and 10 All-NBA First Team selections, this dynamic duo remains one of the greatest of all time.
Looking at the list of duos mentioned above, it is clear that NBA history is chock-full of remarkable partnerships that not only helped create special moments on the court, but established timeless legacies. From Larry Bird and Kevin McHale’s five Finals appearances with the Celtics to the pioneering success of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with the Showtime Lakers, there is no shortage of amazing duos that have changed the game.
And while there is no definitive answer to the question of who is the best NBA duo of all time, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen will always remain an unbeatable benchmark for future generations of basketball heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best basketball duo in the NBA?
Without a doubt, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen are recognized as the best duo in the history of the NBA. The pair won six championships for the Chicago Bulls in the late 1990s, cementing themselves as one of the most successful tandems of all time.
