The Best Golden State Warriors of All Time
Who are the best Golden State Warriors of all time? As one of the the charter NBA franchises, the Warriors have a history that's as rich as any team in the league. Some of the best players in NBA history have played for the Warriors, even when they were in Philadelphia. The team played for 16 seasons in Philadelphia before moving to San Francisco in 1962. The Warriors had the biggest name of those early NBA years on its roster in Wilt Chamberlain. "The Big Dipper" is widely considered one of the best centers of all time. As a Warrior, Chamberlain scored an NBA record 100 points in a single game, one of the greatest achievements in all of sports.
In 1975, the Warriors won its second championship on the strength of one of the best players of all time in Rick Barry. Widely considered one of the greatest small forwards ever, Barry was a prolific scorer who became even greater in spite of knee injuries. He was named one of the NBA's 50 greatest players in 1996. NBA Stars like Chris Mullin, Tim Hardaway, and Baron Davis all made stops in Oakland during their NBA careers.
Throughout the team's history, Golden State has been one of the league's best offensive teams. GSW became a dynasty in the 2010s led by a core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, winning three titles (2015, 2017, 2018) in five years and setting the single season record for wins in 2016 after posting 73-9 record. Then, there's Kevin Durant. Do you love KD for the two titles? Or hate KD for pushing Steph out of the spotlight and leaving for Brooklyn when the going got tough?
Who is the best Golden State Warriors player of all time? Vote or rerank the list based on who you think is the greatest Golden State Warriors player ever.
- 1Point guard
- Birthplace: Akron, Ohio
Curry's lightning-quick release and unparalleled shooting range revolutionized the game of basketball, making him one of the most feared offensive weapons in NBA history. As the driving force behind the Warriors' dynasty, Steph not only led the team to multiple championships but also made a lasting impact on the sport by inspiring a new generation of players to hone their skills from beyond the arc. His gravity-defying moves and court vision have earned him a reputation as a master of deception, always keeping defenders guessing as he weaves his way through the paint.
- 2Center
- Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Arguably the most dominant center in the history of the game, Chamberlain's size, strength, and athleticism were simply unmatched during his time with the Warriors. His incredible scoring and rebounding abilities defined an era and challenged the limits of what was thought possible on the basketball court. Wilt's legendary 100-point game remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history, serving as a testament to his incredible impact on the game and the Warriors franchise.
- 3Small forward
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C.
A true game-changer, Durant's arrival in Golden State unequivocally propelled the team into the annals of NBA greatness. At 6'10" with a guard-like skillset, KD's offense proved nearly unguardable, stretching defenses thin and creating space for his teammates. Durant's ability to consistently make clutch shots in high-pressure situations, coupled with his commitment to defense, cemented his status as one of the all-time greats in Warriors' history.
- 4Shooting guard
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
Often referred to as the "other Splash Brother," Thompson's elite shooting prowess and uncanny ability to catch fire make him a force to be reckoned with on the offensive end. Equally as impressive is Klay's unwavering tenacity on defense, as his commitment to locking down opponents' best players allows the Warriors to maintain their high-octane pace. Thompson's humbleness and team-first attitude have endeared him to fans and teammates alike, making him a vital component of the Warriors' championship runs.
- 5Point guard
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
As the motor behind "Run-TMC," Hardaway's devastating crossover and exceptional court vision set the tone for the Warriors' fast-paced offense in the late '80s and early '90s. His ability to break down defenses and excel in transition helped make Golden State one of the most exciting teams to watch during his tenure. Hardaway's influence on the game remains evident today as his flashy playmaking and scoring continue to inspire future generations of guards.
- 6Small forward
- Birthplace: Elizabeth, New Jersey
With his distinctive underhanded free-throw shooting style, Barry left a lasting impression on the game and helped the Warriors capture their first NBA title since moving to Golden State. A fearless competitor, Rick's tenacity on both ends of the floor made him a nightmare for opposing teams. His unwavering commitment to winning and consistent excellence on the court easily cement him as one of the franchise's all-time greats.
