The greatest players in the history of the NBA often come with a high level of notoriety. But what about the underappreciated stars of the game? This article will rank the ten most underrated NBA players ever, featuring an eclectic mix of veterans, rule-breakers, and champions.
From Hall of Famers to superstars cut too soon, we’ll explore the careers of those whose contributions deserve more recognition. Join us as we dive into the stories of these legendary players, and discover why they may have been overlooked by the mainstream.
#1 Tim Hardaway
Tim Hardaway has been criminally overlooked throughout his NBA career. He was a basketball great, who never got the recognition he deserved. While he may not have had the star power of John Stockton or Larry Bird, Hardaway was an integral part of several championship contenders during his 17-year tenure and still remains one of the most respected players among NBA fans today.
Hardaway’s rookie season with the Golden State Warriors earned him Rookie of the Year honors and quickly established him as one of the league’s most dynamic players – a silent assassin with deadly shooting accuracy that helped propel the Warriors to success in the ’90s. After six seasons in Golden State, Hardaway moved to Miami where he joined forces with Alonzo Mourning and Dan Majerle to form one of the best teams in NBA history. Despite his age, Hardaway remained a key contributor for Heat and played an important role in their continued success over the next few years.
In 1999, Tim traded jerseys again – this time joining the Milwaukee Bucks for two seasons before moving on to the Brooklyn Nets where he spent three more years playing at the top level – even earning an All-Star nod 2002! When Hardaway retired in 2006 after five teams and seventeen years in league, it was clear that he had cemented himself as one of the most underrated players ever seen on court!
Career Overview
Tim Hardaway spent an impressive 17 years in the NBA, playing for five different teams. He was drafted in 1989 by the Golden State Warriors and quickly earned Rookie of the Year honors in his first season. Throughout his career, Hardaway averaged a remarkable 20 points and 12 rebounds per game – making him a major factor in the Warriors’ success during the ’90s.
He then moved to Miami where he joined forces with Alonzo Mourning and Dan Majerle to create one of basketball’s most formidable trios. His presence was integral to their success over several seasons.
In 1999, Hardaway traded coasts again when he signed with the Milwaukee Bucks for two years before moving on to the Brooklyn Nets. There, he continued to be an influential player – even earning himself an All-Star nod in 2002!
When Tim Hardaway retired from professional basketball in 2006, it marked the end of a legendary career that saw him play for five teams over seventeen years – cementing his status as one of NBA’s most underrated stars ever!
Impact on the Game
Tim Hardaway was a force of nature in the NBA, leaving an indelible mark on the game. He was a sharpshooter who could make opposing teams quake with fear, and his crossover dribble was like poetry in motion as he glided to the rim. Hardaway also had a knack for passing, dishing out more than eight assists per game for six straight seasons. On defense, he was an unsung hero – blocking shots and disrupting plays with ease.
Off the court, Hardaway’s leadership shined through; his humility and willingness to mentor younger players earned him respect from all corners of the league. His influence is still felt today by stars such as Lebron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant – all of whom grew up watching Hardaway play. Like a beacon of light that will never be extinguished, Tim Hardaway’s legacy will continue to live on in the NBA for generations to come.
#2 Maurice Cheeks
Maurice Cheeks was an incredible NBA point guard, widely considered one of the most underrated players in league history. During his 15-year career, he played for five teams – Philadelphia 76ers, San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks and New Jersey Nets.
He was a four-time All-Star selection and four-time All-Defensive team member. He even won the 1993 NBA Sportsmanship Award! But that’s not all – Maurice Cheeks also clinched an NBA Championship with the 76ers in 1983. How impressive is that?
Career Overview
Maurice Cheeks was a 36th overall pick in the 1978 NBA draft, chosen by the Philadelphia 76ers. He spent eight years with them, earning four All-Star selections and four All-Defensive team nods. Cheeks was also part of the Sixers’ 1983 championship squad.
The Chairman of the Boards then moved to San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks and New Jersey Nets before retiring in 1993 after 15 seasons in the league. His consistent play at point guard saw him rank among the top five assists leaders every year while his defensive prowess earned comparisons to Hall of Famer Gary Payton. Maurice’s dominance on boards and ability to shut down opponents’ best players made him an intimidating presence on court – like a lion guarding its pride or a hawk soaring through the sky!
Impact on the Game
Maurice Cheeks had a monumental mark on basketball, both in and out of the game. On the court, he was an unstoppable point guard who regularly ranked among the top five for assists in the league, earned four All-Star titles, and won the NBA Sportsmanship Award in 1993. He also made it to four All-Defensive teams with his ability to defend even against opponents’ best players. Off court, Cheeks was a leader and mentor to many young players he played with – known for his positive attitude and hardworking spirit.
When compared to Tim Hardaway, another underrated player featured in this article, Maurice Cheeks had a similar impact on basketball. Both were incredibly talented point guards with reputations of being unselfish and defensive-minded players. However, Cheeks managed to stay in the league for 15 years due to his dependability while Hardaway had no choice but to retire after only a few years because of injuries.
While Hardaway’s style was flashy and showy, Cheeks‘ play was steady as a rock, which earned him the nickname “Chairman of Boards”. Both left their footprints on basketball history by influencing how future generations would play it.
#3 Kevin Johnson
Kevin Johnson is like a diamond in the rough of NBA history. He played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Phoenix Suns, and Brooklyn Nets during his career. Johnson was a three-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA team selection, and four-time NBA assists leader. He also had the honor of being part of the Dream Team that won gold at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
Johnson’s ability to score and distribute made him comparable to some of basketball’s greatest players such as Larry Bird, Dennis Johnson, and Michael Jordan. His influence on the game has been so profound that many have argued he should be enshrined in the Hall of Fame – but is it enough?
Career Overview
Kevin Johnson’s NBA career kicked off in 1988 with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he quickly rose to become one of the best guards in the league. His All-Star appearances in 1990 and 1992 earned him a trade to the Phoenix Suns, where his success only continued – Johnson was named an All-Star once again in 1994 and led the league in assists four times.
In 1997, Johnson signed with the Brooklyn Nets and kept up his impressive performance until retirement in 1999. He finished his career averaging 16.2 points per game and 9.1 assists per game – making him one of the most underrated players ever seen on court!
Johnson was not just a leader on court but also off it; often compared to Michael Jordan or Bernard King for his stellar defense against top players like James Worthy or Dell Curry. He truly deserved more recognition than he got during his time playing!
Impact on the Game
The impact Kevin Johnson had on the game was immense, often going unrecognized. He was a leader both on and off the court, earning respect from his peers with his dynamic guard play that earned comparisons to some of basketball’s greats like Larry Bird, Dennis Johnson, and even Michael Jordan. His defensive prowess shut down some of the top players in the NBA.
Johnson left an indelible mark on the league through his mentorship of younger players and positive attitude. He was a great teammate who could elevate those around him with his leadership skills. His ability to score as well as facilitate made him one of few players able to do so – leaving an impact felt by many.
#4 John Stockton
One of the greatest point guards ever, John Stockton holds the record for most career assists and steals. But his accolades don’t stop there – he was selected as an All-Star 10 times, a two-time All-NBA 1st team selection in 1994 and 1995, and named to the NBA’s All-Defensive team nine times.
Stockton played his entire 19 year NBA career with the Utah Jazz alongside fellow Hall of Famer Karl Malone. Together they led their team to the NBA Finals in 1997 and 1998 only to be defeated by Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. He also had the honor of being part of USA Basketball’s 1992 “dream team” that won gold at the Barcelona Olympics.
His influence on basketball is undeniable – from Steve Nash to Rajon Rondo even Michael Jordan himself has been influenced by him! His achievements earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame, but it’s clear that Stockton had a greater impact than any other player discussed here today – his 10 All-Star selections and 9 All Defensive teams show just how significant he was on court!
Career Overview
John Stockton was drafted 16th overall in the 1984 NBA draft by the Utah Jazz, and he went on to become a legend with them. But what made his career so special? 10 All-Star selections, two All-NBA 1st team selections, nine All-Defensive team selections – these accolades speak volumes about Stockton’s impact on the court. He was one of the few players to have a long and successful career with one team and even represented USA Basketball at the Barcelona Olympics!
Comparing him to the other three players discussed in this article, it’s clear that John Stockton had an extraordinary career. His records for most assists (15,806) and steals (3265) are proof enough of his greatness – no wonder he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009!
Impact on the Game
John Stockton had a monumental impact on the game, both on and off the court. On the court, he was renowned for his passing prowess and leadership – so much so that he holds records for most career assists and steals. Off the court, Stockton was an exemplary leader in the locker room; known for his professionalism and willingness to mentor younger players. He also served as a role model in his community.
When compared to other players discussed in this article, it’s clear that Stockton had a greater influence on basketball overall. His accolades are impressive enough, but it’s his leadership qualities off-court which earned him Hall of Fame status.
Today, we can still feel John Stockton’s presence through teams like Utah Jazz or Brooklyn Nets – not to mention greats such as Steve Nash or Michael Jordan who were inspired by him! His legacy will never be forgotten; he’ll always remain one of basketball’s greatest point guards ever!
#5 Detlef Schrempf
Detlef Schrempf is a basketball legend whose career spanned 16 years and included three All-Star appearances and two Sixth Man of the Year Awards. He was a point guard for the Dallas Mavericks, Indiana Pacers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Seattle SuperSonics.
Known for his ability to make clutch shots like an eagle swooping in on its prey and consistently delivering strong performances like clockwork, Detlef Schrempf may not have had the same level of success as some of the greatest centers in NBA history – but how did he still leave such a lasting impact?
Career Overview
Detlef Schrempf began his NBA journey with the Dallas Mavericks, drafted in 1985. His two seasons there were a success – he was like a fish in water, averaging 13.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. After that, Schrempf was traded to the Indiana Pacers where he spent three years and earned himself All-Star status twice as well as winning the Sixth Man of the Year Award in 1992.
The Portland Trail Blazers welcomed him for one season before trading him back to his original team – the SuperSonics – where he stayed for eight more seasons and won another Sixth Man of the Year Award in 1999. Throughout his career, Schrempf proved himself an invaluable asset to any team with 15.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game on average – making sure every team had something special from Detlef Schrempf!
Impact on the Game
Throughout his career, Detlef Schrempf was a basketball powerhouse, both on and off the court. On the court, he was like a rock – always reliable and able to contribute in any way his team needed. His ability to make clutch shots combined with his impressive passing skills made him an invaluable asset for any team.
Off the court, Schrempf also left an indelible mark. He was actively involved in the NBA Players Association and various charitable endeavors, setting an example of how to conduct oneself both on and off the court.
So when it comes to comparing Schrempf’s impact on basketball against that of other players discussed in this article – is there even a comparison? While he may not have achieved as much success as them, Detlef Schrempf still had a major influence on the game – one that will live long after his career has ended.
#6 Chris Mullin
Chris Mullin is one of the greatest NBA players ever, yet often overlooked when discussing the best. During his 16-year career, Mullin had a remarkable shooting ability that nearly reached 50/40/90 splits and he played for the Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, and Philadelphia 76ers. He was a five-time All-Star, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and inducted into the Hall of Fame twice in 2010 and 2011.
Mullin was drafted seventh overall by the Warriors in 1985 and helped them reach the Playoffs in 1989 and 1991. After five years with Golden State, he moved to Indiana where he led them to an Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 1994 before signing with Philly in 1995 – leading them all the way to the 2001 NBA Finals!
Throughout his career, Mullin averaged 17.9 points per game along with 4.1 assists and 3.8 rebounds – but it’s his shooting prowess that really stands out; setting an NBA record for most consecutive free throws made without missing (23) back in 1992! His incredible accuracy from beyond the arc is what truly sets him apart as one of basketball’s greats!
Career Overview
Chris Mullin’s shooting was truly remarkable. His career flirted with the 50/40/90 shooting splits, averaging over 50% from the field, 40% from beyond the arc and 90% from the charity stripe. He was one of the most efficient players in NBA history, boasting a True Shooting Percentage of.590.
Mullin’s versatility on court made him an All-Star five times and earned him two Olympic gold medals as well as two Hall of Fame inductions in 2010 and 2011. His career highlights include scoring 24.1 points per game during the 1988-89 season, leading Golden State Warriors to Playoffs in 1989 and 1991, and taking Philadelphia 76ers to Finals in 2001 – all feats that could be described as nothing short of heroic!
He also set an NBA record for most consecutive free throws made without a miss (23) back in 1992 – a feat that will forever remain etched into basketball history books!
Impact on the Game
Chris Mullin left an indelible mark on the game of basketball, and is one of the most underrated players ever. He was a complete package – scoring, rebounding, passing and defending with unparalleled shooting ability and efficiency. His presence was essential to the success of Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers; leading them to NBA Playoffs, Eastern Conference Finals and NBA Finals respectively.
Mullin’s impact can be likened to Tim Hardaway’s great scoring but not as consistent; Maurice Cheeks‘ defensive prowess but not as efficient; Kevin Johnson’s playmaking skills but not as versatile; John Stockton’s shooting accuracy but not as clutch.
Though he wasn’t flashy like Michael Jordan or Lebron James, Mullin still ranked among the top players in the league due to his mastery of craftsmanship. His shooting proficiency combined with leadership qualities made him invaluable for teams he played for – an influence that continues today.
Why is Chris Mullin considered one of the greatest players never to win an NBA championship? Perhaps it has something to do with his 50/40/90 shooting season.
#7 Mark Price
Mark Price is a hidden gem in the NBA Hall of Fame. He was an All-Star four times, a two-time All-NBA Second Team selection, and the 1992-93 3-Point Shootout champion. After his successful college career at Georgia Tech – where he averaged 17.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game – Price was drafted 25th overall in 1986 by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Price’s NBA career flourished with teams like the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, and Orlando Magic; he won Most Improved Player award in 1988–89 and led the league in three-point shooting percentage during the 1990–91 season. In the 1991–92 season, he finished third for assists with 10.1 per game and made it to the All-NBA Second Team again; that same year he took his team to the Eastern Conference Finals too!
His outside shooting prowess is legendary: over 40% from beyond the arc for four straight seasons! His free throw accuracy was also remarkable – 90% or higher from line for four consecutive years! But what often goes unnoticed is Price’s passing ability – 6.7 assists per game throughout his entire career – which makes him one of basketball’s most underrated players ever!
Career Overview
Mark Price was a four-time NBA All-Star, a two-time All-NBA Second Team selection, and the 1992-93 NBA 3-Point Shootout champion. But what does that really mean? It means he was one of the best basketball players in the world! After an impressive collegiate career at Georgia Tech, where he averaged 17.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game during his senior year – Price went on to have an even more successful NBA career with teams like Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic.
He won the Most Improved Player award in 1988–89 and led the league in three point shooting percentage in the 1990–91 season – finishing third overall for assists with 10.1 per game! He also took home the 3 Point Shootout trophy during the 1991–92 season, which earned him another spot on the All Star team too!
Price’s ability to shoot from outside was legendary – it was almost as if he had eyes behind his back when it came to finding open shots beyond arc; shooting over 40% from beyond arc for four straight seasons is no small feat! His free throw accuracy was equally remarkable; hitting 90% or higher from the line for four consecutive seasons made him one of the greatest free throw shooters ever seen! Not only that, but Price’s passing ability often flew under radar, but make no mistake about it – averaging 6.7 assists per game throughout his career speaks volumes about how good a passer he truly was!
Impact on the Game
Mark Price’s impact on the game was immense, like a giant wave crashing against the shore. He was one of the most accurate outside shooters of his generation, and his passing ability often flew under the radar. His free-throw shooting prowess was unparalleled – he shot over 90% from the line for four consecutive seasons! Comparable to five other players discussed in this article, Price had an impressive set of skills: he could shoot with precision from beyond the arc and still be efficient; he had a knack for passing, averaging 6.7 assists per game throughout his career; and defensively, he led the NBA in steals during the 1988-89 season. Mark Price’s legacy is that of an underrated player who left behind a lasting impact on basketball history – as one of the most accurate free-throw shooters ever!
#8 Sidney Moncrief
Sidney Moncrief is a basketball legend, overlooked by many. He was an All-Star five times and Defensive Player of the Year twice. His presence on the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1980s helped them reach the playoffs five times. Drafted fifth overall in 1979, Moncrief played for ten seasons before being traded to the Atlanta Hawks and retiring after playing with the San Antonio Spurs.
Moncrief was a defensive powerhouse, able to block shots like no other; he could set up offensive plays as if it were second nature and shoot from beyond the arc with ease. Not only that, but his passing skills and ball-handling abilities made him one of the most complete players of his era – often considered the best player on the team!
When compared to previous players discussed in the article, Sidney’s impact is clear: he had an immense influence on the game due to his all-round capabilities, something rare at the time! Even today we feel the effects of Moncrief’s legacy – truly a unique talent who changed the NBA forever!
Career Overview
Sidney Moncrief is a basketball legend, drafted fifth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1979 and playing for them for ten seasons before being traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1989. He was an All-Star five times and Defensive Player of the Year twice – a true testament to his skill on the court. Moncrief was known as a shot-blocking, playmaking sharpshooter who could do it all; he was often considered the best player on his team and an invaluable leader with unparalleled competitiveness.
When compared to other players discussed in this article, Moncrief stands out as truly unique. His ability to block shots, set up offensive plays, hit from beyond the arc and lead with passion made him one of a kind – something that can’t be said about many players from his era. His skill set gave him an edge over others discussed here; it’s no wonder why he had such a significant impact on basketball during his time!
Impact on the Game
Sidney Moncrief was a basketball giant, leaving an indelible mark on the game. His ability to swat shots, orchestrate offensive plays and launch threes made him a formidable force on both ends of the court. He was also an adept passer and reliable ball-handler – one of few players in the NBA who could do it all. Moncrief’s tenacious defense and clutch shooting were often the difference between victory and defeat for the Bucks.
When compared to the other players discussed in this article, it’s evident that Moncrief had a much more powerful impact on basketball. His leadership, competitiveness and versatility rendered him invaluable to both Milwaukee Bucks and NBA alike. Sidney Moncrief was truly unique – a complete player with no equal in his era whose legacy still lives today through modern-day stars like Shawn Marion.
#9 Joe Dumars
Joe Dumars is a basketball legend. A 14-year NBA veteran, he won two championships with the Detroit Pistons in 1989 and 1990. He was a 6-time All-Star, 5-time All-Defensive selection, and even earned the NBA Finals MVP award in 1989 – becoming the first Pistons player to have his jersey retired.
But what made Dumars truly special? His strong defense had Larry Bird calling him “the best defender” he ever faced! And yet, despite being able to keep up with some of the greatest players in the game, Dumars remained underrated throughout his career. He was an unsung hero on court and mentor off it; mentoring Dennis Johnson and Michael Jordan among others.
Joe Dumars is one of those rare players who left an indelible mark on basketball history – not just through his two championship wins but also by serving as a leader both on and off court for generations of aspiring athletes.
Career Overview
Joe Dumars was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and attended college at McNeese State University. After being drafted 18th overall by the Detroit Pistons in 1985, Dumars embarked on a remarkable 14-year career that saw him become an integral part of the ‘Bad Boys’ teams who won back-to-back NBA Championships in 1989 and 1990. He was crowned Finals MVP in 1989 and earned 6 All-Star selections as well as 5 All-Defensive nods.
Dumars was renowned for his defensive prowess – Larry Bird even went so far as to call him the best defender he had ever faced – but also possessed a sharp shooting ability which enabled him to keep up with some of basketball’s greatest stars such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James. His leadership qualities were evident both on court where he guided his team to success, and off it where he mentored players like Dennis Johnson and Michael Jordan. Despite making huge contributions to their success, Joe often flew under the radar when it came to recognition.
At the end of his career, Dumars became the first Piston player ever to have their jersey retired while also receiving induction into three prestigious Halls of Fame: The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame; And The NBA Hall Of Fame.
Impact on the Game
Joe Dumars had a monumental impact on basketball, both on and off the court. His defensive prowess coupled with his scoring ability made him one of the NBA’s finest during his time. He was also an inspirational leader, mentoring some of the greatest players in history.
Dumars kept up with Michael Jordan and LeBron James – two of the game’s best ever – while he served as a mentor to many other greats. His legacy lives through those who have followed in his footsteps, often cited as one of the most underrated players ever.
When compared to five other players discussed in this article, it is clear that Joe Dumars was unique and influential. Tim Hardaway, Maurice Cheeks, Kevin Johnson, John Stockton and Detlef Schrempf were all excellent but none had quite such an effect as Dumars did; not only was he a great player himself, but he helped shape careers of some legendary figures making him invaluable to basketball.
#10 Bob Dandridge
Bob Dandridge was a four-time NBA All-Star, shining like a diamond in the rough of underrated players. He was part of two championship teams – the 1971-72 Milwaukee Bucks and 1978-79 Washington Bullets – and his defensive prowess was comparable to Bill Russell’s. But what made him an All-Star four times?
Dandridge began his career with the Bucks in 1969, where he quickly became known for his reliable scoring and defensive presence. During this time, he was named an All-Star three times as well as being part of the 1972 All Defensive Second Team. After six seasons with the Bucks, Dandridge signed with the Washington Bullets and played five more seasons there, during which he earned another All Star selection in 1979.
When compared to other players discussed in this article such as Tim Hardaway, Maurice Cheeks or Kevin Johnson, Bob Dandridge stands out for his championship pedigree and defensive ability. His on-ball defense was better than Dennis Johnson’s or Mike Bibby’s while also having the capability to guard multiple positions – something that helped him win two championships! On top of that, Dandridge had a knack for making big shots when it mattered most; plus his jump shot proved to be one of the most effective weapons in all of basketball at that time.
In conclusion, Bob Dandridge is one of those rare gems who often go unnoticed but have left their mark on history nonetheless. His championship pedigree combined with consistent offensive play made him an All Star four times over; not to mention how much impact he had on both teams’ success due to his defensive ability alone! It goes without saying that Bob Dandridge deserves recognition for everything he has done throughout his career – no matter how underrated it may be today!
Summary
This article has provided readers with an in-depth look at the top twenty NBA players who are classified as underrated. We’ve discussed their impressive careers and the impact they have left on the game of basketball. From Tim Hardaway’s Rookie of the Year honors, to Maurice Cheeks’ dominance on the boards, to John Stockton’s record-breaking streak of consecutive free throws made without a miss, these players have shown the world that their commitment to their craft is unparalleled.
Their talent is undeniable and will continue to inspire current and future generations of basketball players. The influence of these greats should be celebrated despite the lack of recognition they may have received in their lifetime. The likes of Joe Dumars, Sam Perkins, Jeff Hornacek and Cedric Maxwell have left a lasting legacy that will never be forgotten and other greats such as Mark Price, Detlef Schrempf, and Chris Mullin have established themselves as some of the most overlooked talents in NBA history.
All things considered, this carefully selected group of men have not only earned their place among greatness, but also deserve our utmost respect for their dedication to the sport.
