Ranking The Greatest NBA Ball-Handlers Of All-Time
Supreme ball-handling has always been an art form that is done by only the greatest players of all time. While most NBA players throughout history have solid ball-handling skills because they are professional athletes, there remains a select few that are simply better than the rest. We have collected the 40 NBA ball-handling stars and divided them into five tiers to distinguish the best from the rest.
Major names such as Kyrie Irving, Allen Iverson, and Stephen Curry all come to mind but which tier do they come into? Even stars such as the great Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant utilize their handles efficiently but do they make the cut? Here is the tiered ranking of the greatest NBA ball-handlers of all time.
Tier 1
Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving, standing alone in Tier 1, is unequivocally recognized as the pinnacle of ball-handling excellence in the NBA. His repertoire of moves transcends the boundaries of traditional dribbling because we might never see another player, regardless of position, do the things Irving does when he attacks the rim.
After all, he is just born with this gift. From mind-bending crossovers to acrobatic finishes, Kyrie’s ball-handling is not just a skill; it’s an art form that has earned him the title of the greatest ball-handler in the history of the sport.
Tier 2
Allen Iverson, Isiah Thomas, Jamal Crawford, Stephen Curry
Members of Tier 2 are right behind the GOAT of all ball-handlers. These four players are in the conversation for being the greatest dribblers ever, although it must be mentioned that Allen Iverson is closer to GOAT status than the rest of Tier 2.
Allen Iverson, the “Answer,” redefined the point guard position with his explosive ball-handling, lightning-quick crossovers, and fearless drives to the basket; his iconic handles contributed to four scoring titles and an MVP award, showcasing his ability to score at will with career averages of 26.7 points and 6.2 assists per game.
Despite being only 6’0” and 165 lbs, Iverson was forced to use his speed and dribbling to dominate defenses which is why he is the closest to GOAT status as possible.
The floor general for the “Bad Boys” Pistons, Isiah Thomas possessed a crafty handle that allowed him to navigate through defenses with precision; his leadership and exceptional ball-handling contributed to two NBA championships, 12 All-Star selections, and career averages of 19.2 points and 9.3 assists per game.
Thomas had lightning-quick crossovers and was a pure floor general and leader as a point guard.
Jamal Crawford, the master of the crossover and a three-time Sixth Man of the Year winner, showcased a unique ball-handling style that made him a fan favorite; his flashy moves and scoring ability, highlighted by a career-high 52-point game at the age of 39, emphasized his enduring offensive impact and career averages of 14.6 points and 3.4 assists per game.
Stephen Curry, the revolutionizing force behind the three-point era, combined unparalleled shooting with dazzling ball-handling skills; his handles and deep shooting range have made him a two-time MVP, four-time NBA champion, and the league’s greatest shooter, with career averages of 24.2 points per game with 3,545 made threes.
Tier 3
Tim Hardaway, Jason Williams, James Harden, Pete Maravich, Chris Paul, Steve Nash
The six players in Tier 3 have some of the greatest handles ever and most occupy the top 10 in that regard. Even if they were stars in other areas, Tier 3 members were simply on another level in terms of handles compared to the rest.
Tim Hardaway, the “UTEP Two-Step” maestro, displayed an exceptional crossover that became his trademark, allowing him to break down defenses and create scoring opportunities; his dynamic ball-handling contributed to five All-Star selections and career averages of 17.7 points and 8.2 assists per game. Very few players ever, if any, had a better crossover than one of the originators known as Tim Hardaway.
Jason Williams, also known as “White Chocolate,” brought streetball flair to the NBA with his dazzling no-look passes and behind-the-back dribbles; his flashy ball-handling added excitement to the game, complementing his career averages of 10.5 points and 5.9 assists per game. In terms of embarrassing defenders and bringing momentum to his team’s side, Williams was simply incredible to watch.
James Harden, renowned for his signature step-back move, utilized exceptional ball-handling skills to become one of the most prolific scorers in the modern era; his offensive prowess is evident in his MVP award, three scoring titles, and career averages of 25.1 points and 6.3 assists per game.
Pete Maravich showcased unparalleled creativity and ball-handling wizardry, leaving an indelible mark on the game; his flashy style of play contributed to five All-Star selections and career averages of 24.5 points and 7.1 assists per game. Whether scoring or passing, Harden’s elite handles when he gets into his package could destroy any defender in history as he can be an entire offensive system on his own.
Chris Paul combined elite ball-handling with court vision, establishing himself as one of the premier point guards in NBA history; his exceptional handles contributed to 12 All-Star selections and career averages of 17.7 points and 9.4 assists per game. Paul can break ankles but even if he doesn’t, he will use his handles to get to the right spots to pass to his teammates or create for himself.
Steve Nash, a two-time MVP, orchestrated offenses with his exceptional ball-handling and passing skills, contributing to his reputation as one of the greatest point guards of his era; his offensive wizardry included career averages of 14.3 points and 8.5 assists per game. With five assist titles to his name, Nash is a one-of-a-kind point guard and was capable of handling the ball every possession without fear of mistakes or fatigue.
Tier 4
Derrick Rose, Steve Francis, Stephon Marbury, Rafer Alston, Sean Strickland, Kemba Walker, Deron Williams, Baron Davis, Jason Kidd, Kenny Anderson, Kevin Durant
Players in Tier 4 are simply superstar-level ball-handlers as some of the best to have ever done it. While they could do other things, their handles often shine through as most of these players made headlines by stunning defenders.
Derrick Rose mesmerized fans with his lightning-quick crossovers and acrobatic finishes, utilizing his exceptional ball handling to become the youngest MVP in NBA history, showcasing his dynamic offensive skills. Just like many players on this list, Rose’s prime was cut too short.
Steve Francis, known for his streetball-style handles, brought flair to the court, dazzling opponents with a combination of crossovers and behind-the-back moves with the Houston Rockets; his offensive prowess was further evident in his career averages of 18.1 points and 6.0 assists per game.
Stephon Marbury, the New York City prodigy, exhibited an exceptional handle that allowed him to navigate defenses with ease, leading to two All-Star selections and showcasing his offensive prowess with career averages of 19.3 points and 7.6 assists per game. Amazingly, Marbury is one of the very few players who became more famous outside of the United States due to his exploits in China.
Rafer Alston, also known as “Skip to My Lou,” showcased flashy ball-handling and streetball flair, making him a fan favorite; his adept handles contributed to his role as a starting point guard for the Orlando Magic in the NBA Finals, emphasizing his offensive impact. In terms of making beautiful ball-handling moves, Alston was one-of-a-kind.
Kemba Walker, the shifty point guard, utilized his exceptional ball-handling to break down defenses and create scoring opportunities, earning three All-Star selections and showcasing his offensive skills with a career-high 25.6 points per game in the 2018-19 season. Walker often gets overlooked when discussing the best ball-handlers of the 2010s, but he won’t be this time.
Deron Williams, a skilled playmaker, combined vision and handles, making him a threat on the offensive end; his ball-handling prowess contributed to three All-Star selections and career averages of 16.3 points and 8.1 assists per game. Even when he was a powerful point guard in terms of aggression and strength, Williams was unstoppable with the ball because he could cross defenders over and then use his speed to finish at the rim. Remember, Williams was on par with Chris Paul as the best point guard in the NBA during his prime.
Baron Davis, the electrifying point guard, showcased a combination of speed and handles, enabling him to penetrate defenses and make highlight-reel plays; his offensive impact was evident with career averages of 16.1 points and 7.2 assists per game.
Jason Kidd, a legendary point guard, possessed exceptional court vision and ball-handling skills, contributing to his reputation as one of the greatest floor generals; his offensive versatility included career averages of 8.7 assists per game along with an impressive five assist titles. Even if Kidd’s handles weren’t as flashy as other players on this list, he was extremely effective and efficient which is why he is one of the greatest pure point guards ever.
Kenny Anderson, a skilled ball-handler from the New York City hoops scene, showcased flair and creativity with the basketball, contributing to his longevity in the league (14 years) and career averages of 12.6 points and 6.1 assists per game. For those who loved New York and New Jersey basketball, Anderson was a stud.
Although primarily recognized for his scoring and shooting, Kevin Durant demonstrated excellent ball-handling skills for a player of his size, allowing him to create his shot and navigate through defenses; his offensive versatility is highlighted by career averages of 27 points per game and 4.3 assists per game. Durant is simply nasty with his handles and he just misses out on the esteemed Tier 3 to a select few ahead of him.
Tier 5
Magic Johnson, Tony Parker, Kevin Johnson, Rajon Rondo, Penny Hardaway, Damian Lillard, Bob Cousy, Walt Frazier, Earl Monroe, Joe Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Paul George, John Wall, Dwyane Wade, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Grant Hill, Tracy McGrady
Tier 5 ball-handlers are All-Stars and even superstar players who use their handles as part of their excellent all-around games. While their dribbling is top-notch, other areas of their game receive more attention and breaking ankles was just a part of what they could do on a nightly basis.
Magic Johnson, the best ever at his position, showcased mesmerizing ball-handling skills along with an exceptional career average of 11.2 assists per game, solidifying his status as one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history. Even if he could break ankles, his ball-handling was consistent and safe and that is why he is considered the greatest point guard ever.
Tony Parker, the French floor general for the Spurs, seamlessly blended speed and finesse in his ball handling, contributing to his impressive 6,829 career assists and helping guide San Antonio to multiple championships. While his speed is often highlighted, Parker’s handles often go unnoticed.
A dynamic force for the Phoenix Suns in his prime, Kevin Johnson not only left defenders in awe with his lightning-quick crossovers but also boasted an impressive career average of 9.1 assists per game, underscoring his ability to orchestrate offenses with flair, especially during his days with the Phoenix Suns.
A player known for his basketball IQ and unique ball-handling style, Rajon Rondo earned a reputation as a masterful playmaker, amassing 7.9 assists per game over his career, with a knack for delivering timely assists and controlling the tempo. An “old-fashioned” point guard who wanted to pass rather than score, Rondo is one of the best pure point guards of his generation.
Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway, a versatile guard, combined size and skill with his ball-handling, leaving an indelible mark on the game; his well-rounded play included 5.0 assists per game over his career even if he had a game that was focused on scoring the ball as well (15.2 PPG). It is truly a shame injuries ended the prime of one of the most talented players of the 1990s.
Damian Lillard, the modern-day scoring sensation who boosted his legacy with the Portland Trail Blazers, not only boasts a lethal handle but also a deep shooting range, exemplified by his clutch performances and 7.7 career assists per game. No doubt, Lillard was a pure scorer, and his career average of 25.2 points per game which is predicated on his handles.
Bob Cousy, a pioneer of the point guard position, showcased flashy and innovative ball-handling, setting the stage for future generations; his contributions included 7.5 assists per game (and 8 assist titles) over his storied career even if highlights of him might look outdated and old-fashioned to players nowadays.
Walt Frazier and Earl Monroe, the dynamic duo for the Knicks, combined stylish ball-handling with defensive prowess, contributing to their team’s success and earning spots in NBA lore. Frazier and Monroe are two of the most respected players of their eras and while their scoring was elite, their ability to break down defenses made them widely respected with the latter having the “Pearl” move that is second to none.
Joe Johnson, a skilled scorer, showcased smooth ball handling to complement his offensive repertoire, contributing to his status as a seven-time All-Star known for his isolation skills which involved his accurate and efficient handles.
Kobe Bryant, the Black Mamba, not only had an extensive scoring arsenal but also exhibited impeccable ball-handling skills, especially in the post. Bryant could get past defenders with his slithery moves with the ball and when he went into his bag of moves and counter-moves, it was normally game over for any defender in his way.
A versatile two-way forward, Paul George displayed impressive ball-handling for his position, adding a layer of skill to his scoring and defensive abilities. George has been underrated for his smoothness on the court and it was his improved handles that took him to another level as an All-Star in the modern NBA.
John Wall, known for his explosive speed and handles, averaged 8.9 assists per game, establishing himself as a premier playmaker for the Wizards during his prime. Although injuries cut his prime short, there is no doubt that Wall has to be mentioned in Tier 5 because of how exceptional he was at his best.
Dwyane Wade, the Flash of the Miami Heat, combined smooth ball-handling with explosive drives, contributing to his status as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history, with 5.4 assists per game highlighting his playmaking abilities while his 22.0 scoring average shows how his handles gave him a chance to beat defenders and use his athleticism.
Widely regarded as the greatest of all time, Michael Jordan not only dominated with scoring but showcased exceptional ball-handling skills, paving the way for his six NBA championships with the Bulls. Jordan’s mid-range jumper and soaring dunks often captivate fans, but they have to remember his ball-handling was the reason he was able to place himself in positions to score the ball.
Scottie Pippen, the versatile wing for the Bulls, exhibited excellent ball-handling to complement his defensive prowess, contributing to Chicago’s dominance in the 1990s. Armed with quick-fire crossovers and long arms, Pippen could beat most defenders in front of him and was a phenom when he had the ball on the fast break.
Grant Hill, a multi-talented forward, used his exceptional ball-handling to impact various facets of the game, earning seven All-Star selections. Hill was supposed to take the mantle from Michael Jordan once the GOAT retired from the Chicago Bulls, and his handles were a reason why. Even if injuries cut Hill’s prime very short, he showed enough to make Tier 5.
Tracy McGrady, a scoring sensation whose prime was cut short with injuries, possessed silky smooth ball-handling skills that complemented his offensive repertoire, making him one of the most electrifying players in NBA history. Even if he was a dominant scorer with two scoring titles, McGrady’s handles and playmaking were arguably his most efficient traits.