The Best White Players in NBA History

Over 45.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best White Players in NBA History
Voting Rules
Vote up the greatest white basketball players ever to play in the NBA

Who are the best white NBA players in history? This list includes some of basketball's most legendary NBA players and some of the biggest modern NBA stars. Many of the best white basketball players in NBA history are easily among some of the greatest NBA players of all time. Whether they're sneaky fast, lights out shooters, strong passers, or big men with solid post skills, these white NBA players are always great at fundamentals and deceptively quick. So, who is the best white basketball player to ever make his mark in the NBA? Which white NBA players do you love?

From NBA legends like Larry Bird, George Mikan, and John Stockton to some of today's biggest NBA stars like Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, and Kevin Love, this list has them all. Where do NBA All Stars like Kurt Rambis, Kevin McHale, Paul Westphal, Bob Cousy, and John Havlicek stack up? What about Mr. NBA Logo himself, Jerry West? 

Vote up the greatest white NBA players of all time, and help decide the best white basketball player in NBA history! 

Most divisive: Matthew Dellavedova
Ranked by
  • Larry Bird
    1
    Small forward
    18,881 votes
    • Birthplace: French Lick Township, Indiana
    • Teams: Boston Celtics

    Larry Bird, a veritable NBA legend, revolutionized the sport with his exceptional court vision and natural basketball instincts. A 12-time All-Star, three-time MVP, and three-time NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, Bird was known for his lethal shooting ability and fiery competitiveness, earning him the nickname "Larry Legend." His impact on the game will forever be felt as he raised the bar for future players and inspired generations of future athletes with his unparalleled work ethic and never-say-die attitude.

  • Dirk Nowitzki
    2
    Power forward
    15,463 votes
    • Birthplace: Würzburg, Germany
    • Teams: Dallas Mavericks

    Hailing from Germany, Dirk Nowitzki redefined the power forward position in the NBA with his unique blend of size, skill, and offensive versatility. The 14-time All-Star and former MVP led the Dallas Mavericks to their first-ever NBA championship in 2011, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time. Nowitzki's signature one-legged fadeaway jump shot became an iconic move, widely emulated by fellow players, proving that his influence on the game transcends borders and generations.

  • John Stockton
    3
    Point guard
    13,138 votes
    • Birthplace: Spokane, Washington
    • Teams: Utah Jazz

    When discussing elite playmakers, John Stockton's name is invariably mentioned as an exemplar of excellence at the point guard position. Throughout his illustrious career, Stockton was renowned for his incredible passing acumen, racking up a record-breaking 15,806 career assists with the Utah Jazz. His pick-and-roll partnership with Karl Malone remains iconic, and Stockton's tenacious defense and scrappy mentality earned him five selections to the NBA All-Defensive team.

  • Nikola Jokić
    4
    7,464 votes
    • Birthplace: Sombor, Serbia
    • Teams: Denver Nuggets

    The Serbian phenom Nikola Jokić has already made a colossal impact on the NBA landscape, earning a reputation as one of the most versatile and skilled big men in league history. With an NBA Championship and two league MVP awards under his belt, Jokić's extraordinary playmaking ability and ambidextrous post moves have shattered traditional conventions for centers in the modern NBA. His innate basketball IQ and multifaceted skill set make him an unstoppable force on the court, captivating fans and players alike.

  • Jerry West
    5
    Point Guard, Shooting Guard
    11,934 votes
    • Birthplace: Chelyan, West Virginia
    • Teams: Los Angeles Lakers

    Affectionately known as "The Logo" due to his silhouette being featured in the NBA logo, Jerry West's indelible mark on the sport is timeless. As an explosive scorer and tenacious defender, West earned 14 All-Star selections, an NBA championship, and a Finals MVP award with the Los Angeles Lakers. His unwavering commitment to greatness and legendary clutch performances have solidified his place among the pantheon of NBA greats.

  • Steve Nash
    6
    Point guard
    12,085 votes
    • Birthplace: Johannesburg, South Africa
    • Teams: Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers

    With unparalleled creativity and precise execution, Steve Nash mastered the art of playmaking during his tenure in the NBA. The two-time MVP and eight-time All-Star dazzled fans with his no-look passes, behind-the-back assists, and scintillating dribble moves, setting the blueprint for the modern point guard. Under the tutelage of head coach Mike D'Antoni, Nash ran the Phoenix Suns' iconic 'Seven Seconds or Less' offense with superlative efficiency, leaving fans and opponents alike in awe of his sheer brilliance on the court.