The Fastest NBA Players of All Time

Over 3.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Fastest NBA Players of All Time
Voting Rules
Best players in NBA history who were known for their elite speed

This list is composed of the fastest NBA players of all time, ranked by overall speed and talent level. The NBA measures straight-line speed at the yearly NBA combine, as well as quickness, lateral agility, and many other athletic traits. However, speed in the NBA isn't as focused on the numbers, and is instead simply quantified by the jaw-dropping speed-related feats these NBA players perform on a nightly basis. Due to top-level speed, many of the fastest NBA players are also among the greatest NBA players of all time.

This list is a collection of which players displayed the most amazing, game-changing speed in NBA history. Typically, the fastest NBA players are point guards such as Russell Westbrook and John Wall, since they are often the smallest, although certain anomalies like LeBron James and Michael Jordan find themselves among the fastest NBA players despite being bigger and stronger.

Go ahead and rank the fastest NBA players of all time, and when you're done, head on over to rank the fastest NFL players of all time

Most divisive: Leandro Barbosa
Ranked by
  • Russell Westbrook
    1
    Oklahoma City Thunder
    1,574 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Age: 34
    • Birthplace: Long Beach, California
    • Number: 0

    Considered one of the most athletic and explosive point guards in NBA history, Russell Westbrook boasts an incredible résumé of accomplishments, such as being a multiple-time All-Star, two-time scoring champion, and the 2016-17 MVP. Famed for his ferocious intensity on the court, relentless drive to win, and uncanny ability to notch triple-doubles at a historic rate, Westbrook became the second player to average a triple-double for an entire season after Oscar Robertson. The league has become electrified not only by his jaw-dropping dunks and unmatched speed but also by his unique impact on the sport as a transcendent talent armed with an indomitable will.

  • Derrick Rose
    2
    Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers
    1,265 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Age: 34
    • Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois
    • Number: 1

    Derrick Rose quickly etched his name into NBA lore when he became the youngest MVP in league history at just 22 years of age in the 2010-11 season. Blazing past defenders with his lightning-quick speed, gravity-defying hops, and deceptive agility, Rose was unstoppable in his prime as the centerpiece of the formidable Chicago Bulls squad. Despite weathering a tumultuous journey marred by severe injuries, this three-time All-Star has admirably demonstrated unwavering resilience, reinventing his game to thrive as a seasoned veteran and continue to captivate fans with his exciting play on the court.

  • Allen Iverson
    3
    Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons
    1,301 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Age: 48
    • Birthplace: USA, Virginia, Hampton
    • Number: 1

    Allen Iverson, a cultural phenomenon dubbed "The Answer," is one of the most iconic players to ever grace the hardwood due to his remarkable skill set and hypnotic swagger. The 2000-01 MVP and four-time scoring champion left an indelible mark on the sport with his crossover dribble, unrelenting competitiveness, and fearlessness despite standing merely 6 feet tall among giants. With his unparalleled influence on the game, A.I. transformed the NBA landscape, inspiring generations of future players while redefining both style and attitude in professional basketball.

  • De'Aaron Fox
    4
    Sacramento Kings
    655 votes
    • Position: Point Guard
    • Birthplace: New Orleans, LA
    • Number: 5

    The future is bright for speedster De'Aaron Fox, who has rapidly emerged as one of the league's most promising young talents due to his exhilarating blend of raw athleticism and scoring prowess. Fox's electrifying style of play, dynamic court vision, and lightning-quick reflexes have allowed him to become a versatile threat on both sides of the ball, earning him comparisons to John Wall. As he continues to develop and refine his game, the sky's the limit for this budding star whose potential to leave a lasting impact on the NBA is undeniable.

  • John Wall
    5
    Washington Wizards
    1,363 votes
    • Position: Point guard
    • Age: 33
    • Birthplace: Raleigh, North Carolina

    A five-time All-Star and one of the fastest players in NBA history, John Wall has been a dominant force at the point guard position with his phenomenal court vision, unparalleled passing skills, and exceptional defensive acumen. Known for his transcendent ability to single-handedly dictate the pace of a game, Wall's explosive athleticism and relentless pursuit of the rim have made him a nightmare matchup for opponents. As a premier playmaker, Wall's legacy will be remembered for his dynamic impact on the sport as well as his unwavering commitment to his craft on and off the court.

  • Dwyane Wade
    6
    Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers
    779 votes
    • Position: Shooting guard
    • Age: 41
    • Birthplace: USA, Chicago, Illinois
    • Number: 3

    Dwyane Wade, affectionately called "Flash," shined as one of the most remarkable shooting guards in NBA history with a career highlighted by three championships, a Finals MVP, and 13 All-Star selections. Wade's impeccable scoring ability, tenacious defense, and penchant for delivering in clutch moments solidified his status as a living legend within Miami Heat folklore. A fearless leader both on and off the court, Wade's legacy resonates in not only his awe-inspiring performances but also his profound influence on the generations of players that have followed in his footsteps.