Steals stand as a crucial statistic among the five key categories in basketball, quantifying instances where a player successfully snatches the ball from an adversary.
Though it appears simple, executing a steal is exceedingly challenging. Defenders must avoid contact with the offensive player to prevent fouling during the attempt.
Moreover, the rapid dribbling skills of professional players elevate the difficulty of stealing the ball, likening it to a nearly impossible task for average individuals.
Yet, for NBA legends known for their steals, such as CP3, John Stockton, and Allen Iverson, navigating these challenges seems almost effortless, marking their prowess in this demanding aspect of the game.
Table of Contents:
- List of Top 10 Steals Leaders
- Single Game Steals Record
- Most Steals in a Playoff Game
- Best Steals per Game Averages
#10 Clyde Drexler
Ranked 10th, Clyde Drexler amassed 2207 steals in his illustrious career.
As an integral part of the 1992 Olympics’ legendary “Dream Team” and a celebrated ten-time NBA All-Star, Drexler clinched an NBA championship in 1995, solidifying his legacy within the annals of NBA history and showcasing his invaluable contribution to his team’s triumphant season.
#9 LeBron James
LeBron James, holding the 9th position, has achieved 2259 steals in his distinguished career so far.
As a prominent figure in basketball, LeBron‘s contributions extend beyond his scoring NBA record to include remarkable defensive plays.
His career, marked by multiple NBA championships and All-Star appearances, reflects his versatility and leadership on the court. James‘s ability to read the game and make crucial defensive interventions showcases his all-around skills and secures his place among the NBA’s elite.
#8 Julius Erving
Julius Erving, securing the 8th position, recorded 2272 steals, showcasing his defensive prowess in the NBA and ABA.
An 11-time NBA All-Star and the 1981 NBA MVP, Erving‘s legendary status is highlighted by his scoring, rebounding, and assists. Renowned for his impactful play, he remains a quintessential figure in NBA history, celebrated for his all-around game and leadership on and off the court.
#7 Scottie Pippen
Scottie Pippen, ranking 7th with 2307 steals, shined offensively and defensively alongside teammates like Michael Jordan on the Chicago Bulls.
With 6 NBA titles and 7 All-Star nods, his influence on games, leadership, and defensive skills cemented his legacy as a versatile and impactful player in NBA history.
#6 Maurice Cheeks
Maurice Cheeks claims the 6th position, amassing 2310 steals throughout his career. He clinched an NBA championship in 1983 and was a four-time All-Star, showcasing his significant impact on and off the court.
Cheeks‘ defensive mastery and leadership helped define his era, earning him a spot among the NBA’s elite defenders.
#5 Gary Payton
Gary Payton holds the 5th position with 2445 steals.
Celebrated as the 1996 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Payton‘s 9 All-Star selections and 2006 NBA championship victory underline his defensive mastery and leadership on the court.
His legacy as a premier defender in NBA history is undeniable.
#4 Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, the Chicago Bulls legend, ranks 4th with 2514 career steals.
As a six-time NBA champion, six-time NBA Finals MVP, five-time NBA MVP, and fourteen-time All-Star, MJ‘s defensive and offensive prowess solidified his status as one of basketball’s greatest.
His achievements on the court, including his remarkable steal count, exemplify his unparalleled impact in the NBA.
#3 Chris Paul
Paul, active as of the 2023-2024 season, has accumulated 2597 steals, positioning him 3rd.
An eleven-time All-Star and the 2013 NBA All-Star Game MVP, Paul has topped the league in steals six times and in assists four times.
His ongoing career continues to set benchmarks in both defensive and playmaking excellence, highlighting his significant impact in the NBA.
#2 Jason Kidd
Jason Kidd, a unique triple-double threat often eyed for a quadruple-double, secures the second spot with 2684 steals.
An eleven-time All-Star and 2011 NBA champion, his legendary court versatility showcases his leadership.
With five seasons leading in assists, Kidd‘s all-around contributions highlight his pivotal role in NBA history, underlining his exceptional game in both defense and playmaking.
#1 John Stockton
John Stockton, the only player at the pinnacle with an astonishing 3265 steals, is often hailed as one of the NBA’s greatest.
His record, bolstered by a lengthy career, remains a towering benchmark.
A ten-time All-Star, he led the league in steals twice and in assists nine times, demonstrating unmatched playmaking and defensive prowess.
What is the NBA’s single-game steals record?
The record for the most steals in one NBA game is held jointly by Larry Kenon and Kendall Gill, each achieving 11 steals in a match.
Most Steals in a Playoff Game
The record for the most steals in a playoff game is held by Allen Iverson, who recorded 10 steals for the Philadelphia 76ers against the Orlando Magic on May 13, 1999.
Steals Per Game Average
The NBA’s average steals per game is a key statistic demonstrating player consistency in defense:
- Alvin Robertson leads with a 2.71 steals per game average.
- Michael Ray Richardson follows with a 2.63 average.
- Fatty Taylor ranks third at 2.40.
This metric underscores the defensive acumen required to excel in steals, reflecting players’ adeptness at anticipating and reacting to opponents’ moves.
