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Are you a true NBA fan, capable of recognizing the legends of the game with just a glimpse? Prepare to put your knowledge to the ultimate test as we delve into the realm of former NBA MVPs. From towering giants dominating the paint to agile guards dissecting defenses, these MVPs have left an unforgettable mark on the sport. Get ready to match the silhouette with the superstar and uncover the stories behind their greatness. Let the quiz begin:
1993 NBA MVP
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On his way to the 1993 NBA MVP trophy, this elite rebounder dominated the glass. Though he never won a title, he’s a true legend of the game. His influence can still be felt today as he remains one of the most prominent media figures. Throughout his career, he amassed numerous accolades and left his mark on the game solidifying his status as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.
Charles Barkley
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Barkley joined the Phoenix Suns in 1992 after spending the first eight seasons of his career with the 76ers. It was in Phoenix that Barkley received the ultimate individual recognition a player can get. He earned MVP honors in 1993 with averages of 25.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG, and 5.1 APG. Ultimately, Barkley’s Suns came up short in the NBA Finals that year, losing to Michael Jordan’s Bulls in six games.
2023 NBA MVP
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After finishing in second place in each of the two previous seasons, this player finally received MVP honors in 2023 with a dominant campaign. During the 2023 season, he earned his second scoring title with a 33.6 PPG average. His on-court skills are only matched by his off-court charisma. Fans are drawn to his jovial personality and sharp wit. Moreover, he’s a beloved individual within the city he’s called home for the entirety of his NBA career.
Joel Embiid
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After finishing second to Nikola Jokic two years in a row, Philadelphia’s Joel Embiid broke through in 2023 with his first MVP trophy. Embiid is a two-way force who has carried the 76ers for the last eight years. After battling injury concerns earlier in his career, Embiid has emerged as a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate who can dominate a game on both ends of the floor.
’19 and ’20 NBA MVP
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This former two-time winner possesses a unique combination of size, speed, and skill, standing tall with an impressive wingspan. Renowned for his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, he has garnered acclaim for his breathtaking athleticism and everlasting motor. Off the court, his humility, work ethic, and dedication to his craft have earned him admiration and respect, solidifying his status as a role model both on and off the hardwood.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
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Born in Greece to Nigerian parents, Giannis Antetokounmpo overcame humble beginnings to ascend to the pinnacle of basketball, captivating fans worldwide with his captivating style of play. An afterthought during the 2013 NBA Draft, Giannis ascended the ranks of stardom rapidly until his dominance was undeniable. He took home MVP honors in back-to-back years, and has had five other top-7 finishes.
2017 NBA MVP
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The 2017 NBA MVP played with a chip on his shoulder that season. Tasked with carrying a lesser roster, this ferocious player was in attack mode from the onset. He never takes plays off and always competes until the final buzzer. Sometimes, that can rub his peers the wrong way. However, his relentlessness earned him two All-Star Game MVPs, as well. Never one to shy away from getting his teammates involved, this athletic marvel has led the league in assists on three occasions.
Russell Westbrook
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Russell Westbrook rewrote the history books during a historic 2017 campaign. Westbrook became the first player since Oscar Robertson to average a triple-double throughout the entire season. He did it two more times — in 2019 and ’21 — and was one of the league’s most productive players for a decade. His Thunder team needed every last bit of that production.
2011 NBA MVP
He made his mark early on, being named Rookie of the Year in 2009 after being selected with the first overall pick in the draft. Athletically, nobody could match up with him in his prime. His jaw-dropping speed left defenders in the dust. Playing for his hometown team, he became a beloved figure within the community. In 2011, he became the youngest MVP recipient in league history at just 22 years old.
Derrick Rose
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Oh, what could have been? Derrick Rose became the league’s youngest MVP in 2011 after leading the Bulls to the best record in the league. Rose was a fan favorite and looked to be ascending to superstar status. Unfortunately, injuries ultimately derailed his promising career. Rose eventually returned to the floor but was never quite the same after his memorable 2011 campaign.
2001 NBA MVP
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This former NBA MVP may stand shorter than many of his peers, but his impact on the basketball world was undeniable. Renowned for his lightning-quick crossovers, and acrobatic finishes, he epitomized the phrase “heart over height.” Off the court, his influence extended beyond basketball courts, as he became a cultural icon, inspiring millions with his authenticity and resilience. Despite facing adversity throughout his career, he remained true to himself and left a legacy that continues to inspire players and fans alike.
Allen Iverson
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The 2001 MVP award was given to Allen Iverson, a cultural icon who is adored by NBA fans. That season, Iverson led the league in both points and steals. Iverson was a fearless competitor who never shied away from competition. He was always among the most well-conditioned players, as well. Iverson averaged over 41 MPG for his career. Seven times he led the league in the category.
1994 NBA MVP
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A defensive stalwart and offensive savant, this former MVP oftentimes does not get the credit he deserves. Perhaps that’s due to the fact he played in an era with other more vocal superstars. The 1994 NBA MVP let his play do the talking, as he dominated on both ends during his era. A two-time recipient of the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award, this Houston legend is regarded as one of the greatest defenders the league has ever seen.
Hakeem Olajuwon
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Hakeem Olajuwon was drafted by the Houston Rockets following an illustrious collegiate career at the University of Houston. In ’94, Olajuwon was widely regarded as the best player in the league while Michael Jordan was pursuing a baseball career. With the Bulls out of the picture, Olajuwon led the Rockets to two straight NBA titles. He was the unquestioned leader of those Houston teams, and he routinely dominated against the league’s top big men.
2014 NBA MVP
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Before claiming two titles later in his career, the four-time scoring champion was named NBA MVP in 2014. Add it to his long list of accolades which also include 14 All-Star nods and 10 All-NBA distinctions. He’s also been awarded two All-Star Game MVPs and was named the 2008 Rookie of the Year. During his acceptance speech, he recognized his mother by saying, “You the real MVP.”
Kevin Durant
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Regarded as one of the best scorers of all-time, Kevin Durant’s 2014 was his best individual season to date. Starring for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Durant set a career-high in points (32.0) during his MVP campaign. His ability to exploit defenses from anywhere on the floor is what makes him one of the best. Durant can score from any spot, making it difficult for defenders to account for his stunning ability.
2007 NBA MVP
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With a deadly fadeaway jumper and remarkable basketball IQ, the 2007 MVP led his team to unprecedented success. Renowned for his humility and work ethic, he embodied the values of loyalty having spent his entire illustrious career with a single franchise. Off the court, his impact extended far beyond basketball, as he used his platform to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Can you identify the NBA MVP legend behind the silhouette?
Dirk Nowitzki
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Dirk Nowitzki is one of the greatest shooting big men the game has seen. Hailing from Germany, he shattered stereotypes by becoming one of the greatest sharpshooters in basketball history. In ’07, everything clicked for Nowitzki during the regular season. He was automatic from everywhere on the floor and led the Mavericks to a No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. Unfortunately, Dallas was eliminated in the first-round of the playoffs in a stunning upset. Four years later, Nowitzki and the Mavericks finally got over the hump and delivered the city of Dallas an NBA title.
2000 NBA MVP
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A colossal giant dominating the paint with sheer force and athleticism, leaving a trail of shattered backboards and broken opponents in his wake. This former NBA MVP looms large on the court, casting an imposing shadow over his opponents with his sheer size and power. Though, he was also plenty athletic during his prime. Standing at an imposing height and boasting Herculean strength, he bulldozed his way through defenses with thunderous dunks and authoritative finishes.
Shaquille O’Neal
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Shaquille O’Neal was simply dominant in the early 00s. The LSU product was excellent during his run in Orlando, but truly solidified himself as an all-time great with the Los Angeles Lakers. He won his lone regular season MVP during the 2000 season, and capped off the year with his first NBA title. Off the court, his charisma and charm endeared him to fans worldwide, cementing his status as a cultural icon and ambassador for the game.
’06 and ’07 NBA MVP
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A slick-haired maestro orchestrating the offense with precision and finesse, dishing out assists with an uncanny basketball IQ. This back-to-back MVP may not possess the stature of other legends, but his impact on the game was felt wholeheartedly. Rather than defeat teams with a score-first mentality, he opted to mesmerize audiences with his passing wizardry. Hailing from Canada, he defied the odds to become one of basketball’s most revered playmakers, earning accolades for his unparalleled court vision and unselfish style of play.
Steve Nash
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Originally a Suns draft pick in 1996, Steve Nash returned to Phoenix in 2005 after spending six seasons in Dallas. Moving to the desert ended up being the best career move Nash could have made. He instantly transformed the Suns into the most potent offense in the league in his first year back. Phoenix won 62 games in Nash’s first MVP season. The voters had no choice but to award him MVP the next year, as well, when Phoenix maintained stability despite star forward Amar’e Stoudamire missing nearly the entire season.
1981 NBA MVP
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A high-flying legend who soared above the rim with grace and flair, revolutionizing the game with his aerial acrobatics and memorable hairdo. The 1981 NBA MVP is synonymous with the artistry of basketball, captivating audiences as the league’s premier high-flying act. With a distinctive afro and a penchant for creating highlights, he redefined the sport and opened up opportunities for things that were previously believed to be impossible.
Julius Erving
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The New York native burst onto the scene as one of basketball’s most electrifying talents. After dominating the ABA for five seasons, Erving leaped to the NBA and continued his elite play. He spent his entire NBA career with the Philadelphia 76ers, eventually helping the franchise capture a title in 1983 alongside fellow Hall of Famer and league MVP Moses Malone. Known as “Dr. J” among fans, Erving was named an All-Star each year of his professional career.
’09, ’10, ’12, and ’13 NBA MVP
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A four-time MVP recipient who probably should have a couple of more in his trophy case. There isn’t an accolade this 20-time All-Star hasn’t accomplished. He’s won a title for three different franchises and recently became the league’s all-time scoring leader. Still haven’t figured it out? Of course, it’s Akron, Ohio’s very own…
LeBron James
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LeBron James is the league’s all-time scoring leader and arguably the best to ever step foot on an NBA floor. James has starred for his hometown Cavaliers, the Miami Heat, and the Los Angeles Lakers — capturing NBA titles with each organization. His last MVP win came in 2013, but James was seen as the best player in the world for over a decade.
2008 NBA MVP
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A five-time NBA Champion whose mentality and work ethic led him to become one of the best of all-time. His 18 All-Star selections are the third most ever. He ranks fourth in scoring all-time and likely would be even higher if injuries did not hamper him throughout the latter-half of his career. With a silhouette that exudes grace and precision, he captivated fans with his silky-smooth fadeaway jump shot, impeccable footwork, and uncanny ability to deliver in clutch moments.
Kobe Bryant
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Kobe Bryant earned his only regular season MVP trophy in the 2008 season. It was a long time coming for the Laker great, who probably should have already collected a couple of MVPs in prior years. Renowned for his unwavering competitiveness, Bryant thrived under pressure, earning him the nickname “The Black Mamba.”
’88, ’91, ’92, ’96, and ’98 NBA MVP
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The pinnacle of athletic prowess and finesse, this five-time MVP winner was known for his gravity-defying dunks and his impressive consistency. The ultimate competitor, he finished his career with six NBA Championships and was named Finals MVP after each series. He played for two teams during his NBA career, but is best known for his time energizing crowds at the United Center as a member of the Chicago Bulls. Stumped? We sure hope not…
Michael Jordan
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Of course, the iconic No. 23 jersey on the Bulls was worn by the great Michael Jordan. The North Carolina product was taken third overall in the 1984 NBA Draft, and went on to win Rookie of the Year honors following a strong first year. Jordan would go on to wreak havoc on the rest of the league for the remainder of his career. He finished with ten scoring titles, 11 All-NBA nods, 14 All-Star appearances, and was even named Defensive Player of the Year in 1988. Five MVPs almost seems like the voters were short-changing Jordan. He easily could have won two or three more.
