The NBA is an awesome sport to follow and attracts lots of fans. There is always plenty of on-court action to savor and lots of games each season to enjoy. As basketball’s premier league, there are also exciting stories to follow about various teams and lots of intriguing off-court gossip to catch up on.
Betting on NBA games is also a big draw and basketball is a sport which lends itself perfectly to this leisure activity. Placing a wager on which team might win or how many points a player might score for example is a great way to liven up any NBA match. Just remember to find the top NBA promos and betting codes first though. These will help you get more from your NBA betting and grab some cool extras when you sign up with a sportsbook.
Another major part of this sport’s popularity are the legendary players in the league’s history. Over time, there have been some truly influential figures who have stood out to fans. But which have been most iconic?
Michael Jordan
When it comes to influential players in the NBA’s illustrious history, Michael Jordan is the top pick for many. Although fans remember him for his scoring prowess, fierce will to win and awesome athleticism, he was also one of the best defensive players of all time in the NBA.
To get a feel for just how iconic a player MJ was, you only need look at his achievements. Six NBA Championship titles are proof enough of his greatness, but then you have plenty of other accolades, such as Rookie of the Year in 1985. Jordan was so influential though because he transcended the sport and was about much more than mere awards. He helped bring basketball to the mainstream and inspired every player who came after him.
LeBron James
From a now retired great of basketball, we move to a player who is still turning it on in the NBA. LeBron James has become a truly influential figure in the sport over his career and has emerged as one of the most recognized figures on the planet. Even people who do not follow basketball know who he is!
As a top-level player, he really does have it all and this has enabled him to dominate in the modern NBA era unlike anyone else. His innovative skills have also inspired not only those he plays with, but fans all over the world. Elite speed, accuracy and game intelligence have also helped him make the NBA truly thrilling to watch and allowed the league to pick up more fans globally. When you add this to his high-profile media presence and desire to speak out on issues outside of basketball, you can see why he has become so influential across popular culture.
Magic Johnson
When you are known by your nickname, you know you have made a massive impact in the sport of your choice. This is what happened to Marvin ‘Magic’ Johnson, and he stands out as one of the most influential NBA players to this day. As with Michael Jordan, Johnson just had that something special about him on the court which made everyone sit up and take notice.
In addition, he ushered in changes to how the game was played – a 6-foot 9-inch giant who could play multiple positions after all was not common before he showed up! When you add in his innovation on the court, ability to score plus make plays and his engaging personality off it, you can see why he was such a huge figure in NBA history.
Steph Curry
How Steph Curry transformed basketball is a great story and shows he deserves credit as one of the most iconic NBA figures in history. Put simply, he has changed the way the current generation of fans view the game with his long-range shooting and high-scoring exploits. Due to Curry’s accuracy from range, the 3-point shot is now also something other players take on much more and see as a more viable tactic to use.
In addition, Curry’s ability to defend at speed on the perimeter has changed what people expect from players in his position. Of course, Curry’s multiple NBA Championships and basketball accolades also help his claims to true greatness across the sport.
Influential greats make NBA shine
As the above shows, there have been some truly amazing players in NBA history who have not only changed how the game is played but also transcended the sport. Their greatness on court and high-profile off it ensured they went from elite level players to genuine global celebrities.