Top 10 NBA Backcourts of the Last 25 Years

MADRID, SPAIN - September 14th 2014 : STEPHEN CURRY of USA during the Final game of FIBA BASKETBALL WORLD CUP 2014 at Palacio de los Deportes Arena

Credit: Marcos Mesa Sam Wordley

By: Joshua Martin

Lately, anytime the Dallas Mavericks are on television, it feels as though there’s a national conversation about the best backcourts in NBA history. And rightfully so! The Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving pairing is one of the most explosive offensive backcourts the game has ever seen. But are they the best?

We can't forget the Splash Bros. who shattered shooting records during the 2010’s, or the massively successful duo of Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher. What about Tony Parker and Manu Ginoboli or the Grindhouse Grizzlies with Mike Conley and Tony Allen. Billups and Hamilton, Teague and Korver, CP3 and Harden? There are so many great duos to choose from.

Nothing incites sports fans more than a good ole top ten list. Let's take a look at the most dominating guard tandems since the turn of the century. While there may be an obvious number one, the criteria for this list was simple. Sustained on-court success, whether or not the duo won championships and also the lasting impact the two had on the court were taken into account. 

Don't like our list? Let us know!

Honorable Mentions:

Jeff Teague and Kyle Korver: This All star duo led the Hawks to its franchise's only 60 win season before losing in the playoffs to Lebron and the Cavs.

Jason Kidd and Vince Carter: These two were deadly in the open court. VInce’s high flying style blended perfectly with Kidd’s pinpoint passing. Injuries and new blood in the Eastern conference stymied this duo's ascension.  

Tony Allen and Mike Conley: Conley is a steady scorer and passesr while Allen became known as one of the scariest defenders in the league. Consistent duo that lacked nationwide exposure.  

10.) Chris Paul and James Harden

Their time was short-lived but quite successful. The MVP version of the Beard and the Point God pushed the Golden State Warriors to Game 7 in the 2018 conference finals. If it wasn’t for a CP3 injury this team would’ve advanced to the Finals. 

9.) Bradley Beal and John Wall

Oh what could’ve been. Wall’s athleticism and smooth passing skills made him an instant star in Washington. Beal, a sturdy scoring guard with range from deep, made him the perfect complement to Wall’s attacking, downhill style. The injury bug may be the biggest culprit behind why this duo didn't see more success on the court.

8.) Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum

Another duo that garnered success smack dab in the middle of the Warriors historic run. This duo routinely posted incredible counting stats during the regular season but lacked the critical support to compete with the better teams in the West. A conference finals appearance and the longevity of the run gives them the spot here.  

7.) Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving

Luka is a walking 30 point triple double nuclear time bomb. Kyrie has the smoothest handles in the game and can easily pour in 50 on any given night. These two have enjoyed a stellar playoff run so far. A championship will boost them up this list but until then these other backcourts have won more and played together longer.

MADRID, SPAIN - September 14th 2014 : KYRIE IRVING of USA celebrates scoring during the Final game of FIBA BASKETBALL WORLD CUP 2014 at Palacio de los Deportes Arena

Credit: Marcos Mesa Sam Wordley

6.) Demar Derozan and Kyle Lowry

These two brought sustained success to a once moribund franchise. Their run unfortunately coincided with Lebron’s historic playoff reign over the Eastern Conference. Lowry, a feisty diminutive point, and Derozan, a mid range dynamo who also excelled at attacking the rim, accrued multiple all star appearances and the led Raptors to the playoffs 5 consecutive times during the 2010’s. 

5.) Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo

Rondo was a do-it-all versatile threat while Allen, before Curry, was known as the greatest shooter in league history. Rondo’s strengths and weaknesses made him a perfect fit with Ray. The two went on to win a title with the C’s and carve out impressive Hall of Fame careers. 

4.) Chauncey Billups and Richard Hamilton

These two pulled off one the biggest upsets in NBA Finals history. Mr. Big Shot’s clutch play and Rip’s smoothe shooting stroke spearheaded the Bad Boys 2.0 offensive attack during their improbable ‘04 title run. These two led the Pistons to six consecutive conference finals, winning 1 title while in Detroit. 

3.) Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher

These two complementend each other's game perfectly. Kobe was a ball dominant scorer and Fish was more of a spot up shooter. The third ranked duo on the list propelled the Lakers to 5 NBA Titles. Fisher was also a deadly clutch shooter just as much as Kobe. With the game on the line either one could burn you. 

Kobe Bryant & Derek Fisher - All We Do Is Win

2.) Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili

Parker and Ginobili were the driving force behind some historic Spurs teams. TP was a tad more consistent but the Spurs were unbeatable when Ginobili went off. This dynamic duo won 4 titles and combined with Duncan made one of the greatest teams of all-time.  

1.) Steph Curry and Klay Thompson

The Splash Brothers are widely regarded as the greatest shooting backcourt of all time. There’s no debating that but what makes them greatest period is all the accolades between the two. Steph Curry is a two time MVP, multiple time scoring champion and single handley revolitonzied the game of basketball. Klay is the epitome of a quintessential ‘3 & D wing’ with the range and shooting touch that rivals his backcourt mate. 5 championships and a 73-9 season earns them this spot without question. 

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA

Kobe Bryant Statue Unveiling Set for Feb. 8 Outside Lakers Arena

Kobe Byrant (credit: Scott Halleran)

By: Adonis Armstrong

Vanessa Bryant revealed on Thursday, August 24th, that the Los Angeles Lakers intend to reveal a Kobe Bryant statue on February 8, 2024. The announcement was conveyed through a video posted on the Lakers' social media platforms at 8:24 a.m. Set to occur outdoors at the Crypto.com Arena, the ceremony marks the initial in a series of commemorations planned by the team to honor Bryant's enduring legacy.

Kobe’s legacy immortalized.

2•8•24 pic.twitter.com/WHQBXZJ2gD

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) August 24, 2023

For numerous fans, August 24th holds significance as Mamba Day, a tribute to the jerseys Kobe wore during his Lakers career, marked by the numbers 8 and 24.

On behalf of the Lakers, my daughters and me, I am so honored that, right here in the center of Los Angeles, in front of the place known as 'The House that Kobe Built,' we are going to unveil his statue so that his legacy can be celebrated forever, Vanessa stated.

The statue ceremony date also serves as a tribute to their late daughter, Gianna Bryant, who donned the number 2 jersey.

Taking his place among highly regarded Lakers figures, Bryant will be the seventh individual to be commemorated with a statue outside of Crypto.com Arena. He will join the ranks of Elgin Baylor, Shaquille O'Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Jerry West, and broadcaster Chick Hearn.

Rob Pelinka, the Lakers' General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations, affirmed that Bryant's influence will tangibly manifest in the space he helped shape, affording everyone the opportunity to pay homage to the departed NBA icon.

Lakers owner Jeanie Buss additionally released a statement regarding the impending ceremony, expressing that Kobe stood as one of the most legendary figures in the history of Los Angeles.

“There is no better place for Kobe to be honored with a statue than here, at the center of our city, where everyone can celebrate him and be inspired by his incredible achievements,” Buss stated.

Coinciding with the ceremony, the Lakers are scheduled to face off against the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, on the same day.

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA

Nike Confirms 'Halo' Kobe Protro 8 for Kobe's Birthday

Kobe Bryant (Kevin Winter/GettyImages)

By: Joshua Martin

Despite there being a bit of controversy surrounding Kobe Bryant’s estate and his wife Vanessa following the Los Angeles icon’s death in 2020, fans of the Nike Kobe line will receive another sneaker drop honoring the legend on what would have been the star’s 45th birthday. 

The latest Kobe 8 retro Protro release from Nike will be available for the first time in full family-sizing on August 23, 2023, aligning with the vision of Vanessa Bryant that all of his fans should be able to wear his sneakers. First released in 2012, the updated version of the shoe will feature modern materials within the sneaker while sticking to its classic look. 

For its reintroduction, we're getting a crisp all-white version of the silhouette. Officially nicknamed "Halo," the colorway was created by his wife as a way to honor Kobe's birthday each year. The shoe will be available through Nike SNKRS and select retailers online and in-store. The retail price for adults will be available ($180), big kids ($120), and little kids ($90).

“I am so proud that my husband’s shoes are still the most worn by players on NBA courts and that the demand for his shoes remain so desired by his fans around the world.”

— Vanessa Bryant

In addition to the sneaker release, Nike will hold a two-day youth basketball tournament at LA's Crypto.com Arena beginning on Aug. 23 culminating on Mamba Day, Aug. 24. 

“Kobe Bryant means so much to so many of us, not just NBA fans but globally beyond the game”

— Nike President and CEO John Donahoe

Vanessa Bryant hinted that "this will be one of the many Kobe 8 'Halo' styles coming soon." I personally am a fan of the Kobe Crazy 8’s from Adidas nevertheless the legacy of the Black Mamba will live on forever. On and off the court.  

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA

Derek Fisher Makes Coaching Comeback with Encino Crespi High School

LOS ANGELES, CA. - SEPTEMBER 16: Derek Fisher of the Lakers watches the WNBA playoff game of the Sparks vs. Storm on September 16, 2009 in Los Angeles.

Credit: Photo Works via Shutterstock

By: Joshua Martin

Derek Fisher, a key member of the early 2000’s Los Angeles Lakers dynasty, has made a return to the sidelines after a brief hiatus from the coaching profession. The starting point guard for one of the greatest NBA dynasties of all time, has returned but not to the rigorous task of leading old and grizzly vets through an 82 game season. This time he instead finds himself on the amateur level leading Encino Crespi High School’s boys basketball team as their new head coach.  

Similar to current Lakers star Austin Reaves, Fisher made a name for himself in his native Arkansas where he laced up his sneakers for Little Rock University. Fisher played all 4 seasons there and was also named the Sun Belt Conference’s Player of the Year in 1996 as a senior. 

Fisher was later selected in the first round of the star studded 1996 NBA Draft, where Laker Legend Kobe Bryant was also drafted. The two immediately formed a partnership that would soon bear fruit in terms of championships.  

Though primarily a reserve player during his early years with the Shaq/Laker dynasty, D Fish consistently started for the Lakers during the post Shaq era, briefly making stops in Golden State and Utah. His second stint with the squad was just as successful. The Lakers with Fisher as their starting point guard made 3 consecutive Finals, winning two.

After a brief “ring chasing” phase with Western Conference contenders, The 18 year NBA veteran quickly transitioned to a coaching career with both the Knicks and L.A. Sparks. Fisher coached the Knicks during the 2014-15 season and part of the 2015-16 campaign before he was fired in February 2016. He went 40-96 during his time as coach in New York. He led the Sparks from 2019 through the early part of the 2022 season.

“Coaching and teaching is a true passion and I look forward to continuing this focus on the next generation of young student-athletes. Go Crespi!!”

— Derek Fisher

Fisher spent last year coaching an 8th-grade boys team and a Team Derek Fisher Club girls team. 

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA

Carmelo Anthony Announces Retirement from the NBA

Carmelo Anthony (credit: Andreas Branch)

By: Joshua Martin

Ten-time all star Carmelo Anthony has officially announced his retirement from the NBA via an emotional video recap of his career where the caption simply read “Thank you #STAYME7O” During the video Melo mentioned that his on the court legacy pales in comparison to the love he has for his son, the game of basketball and the fans who supported him throughout his career.

Thank you #STAYME7O pic.twitter.com/4au8cOd13s

— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) May 22, 2023

People ask what I believe my legacy is,” Anthony said. “It’s not my feats on the court that come to mind, all the awards or praise. Because my story has always been more than basketball. My legacy, my son … I will forever continue through you. The time has come for you to carry this torch.” - Carmelo via video address

The 38-year-old last played during the 2021-22 season where he was impressive coming off the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 13.3 points and 4.2 rebounds in 69 games.

Carmelo Anthony suits up for the Los Angeles Lakers. (Daniel Dunn / USA TODAY Sports)

During his prime, Carmelo was arguably one of the greatest scorers of his era. Earning him numerous all star selections, in addition to a scoring title in 2013 with the Knicks. 

Carmelo played seven seasons in New York, he also spent time in Denver where he was selected number 3 overall by the Nuggets in one of the more memorable draft classes of all time, that saw Lebron James go number 1, Hall of Famer Chris Bosh at 4 and future hall of famer Dwayne Wade at 5. 

The 75th Anniversary team member made stops in Houston, Portland and Oklahoma City as well, en route to a Top Ten finish in total points scored in league history. 

Though uber talented, playoff success eluded CarMelo the majority of his career. The best chance he had at a title was in 2009 where the Nuggets fell short to the eventual champions, Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. He only made it out of the first round one other time. 

His performances with the USA Olympic team has definitely bolstered the 6 '7'’ forwards resume. The three time olympic gold medalist is the all time leader in appearance with 31, first in rebounds and second only behind Kevin Durant in points scored internationally.  

Carmelo Anthony celebrates during the Olympics. (ESPN)

But where does he rank all time?

Being born in the late 1900’s, I had the privilege of watching Melo’s career unfold right before my eyes. From his days at Oak Hill Academy where he went toe to toe with longtime friend and rival LeBron James in a Nationally Televised high school game, to a National Championship victory after an impressive tournament run during his lone college season at Syracuse where he was named the Most Outstanding of the 2003 Final Four, all the way to his clutch performances at Madison Square Garden. Carmelo has always delivered!!

Carmelo Anthony celebrates after a three point shot at Madison Sqaure Garden. (Brad Penner / USA TODAY Sports)

However when discussing the greats, where will Carmelo Anthony end up? He was never known for his defense and I'm sure Nuggets fans haven’t forgotten how he forced his way out of Denver for greener pastures in New York. And let's gloss over the season he spent with Russ and PG13, as Carmelo was clearly out of his prime and the thoughts of a big three quickly materialized into a big two and a half. 

Hindsight being what it is, Melo probably should have waited on a contract extension that prevented him from potentially teaming up with Dwayne Wade and Lebron during the 2010 offseason.  

Nevertheless, a trip to the Hall of Fame is undeniable for the legend who averaged 22.5 points per game during 19 seasons. The 6 time all Nba selection sits 9th on the all time scoring list with 28,289 points. 

In my opinion, Melo is in the top ten at his position. Not too many players had his pension for putting the ball in the hoop. The true definition of a “go to scorer”. Thanks Melo for the memories. 

Carmelo Anthony celebrates as player for the Denver Nuggets. (Barry Gossage / Getty Images)

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA

Vanessa Bryant Awarded $28.85 Million from L.A. County

By: Joshua Martin

Vanessa Bryant, wife of the late Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, has agreed to settle her remaining claims with Los Angeles County for $28.85 million dollars.

According to ABC News, Vanessa Bryant attorney Luis Li addressed the ruling in a statement.

“Today marks the successful culmination of Mrs. Bryant's courageous battle to hold accountable those who engaged in this grotesque conduct. She fought for her husband, her daughter, and all those in the community whose deceased family were treated with similar disrespect. We hope her victory at trial and this settlement will put an end to this practice” - Luis Li, Vanessa Bryant's attorney

Co-plaintiff Chris Chester, whose wife and daughter were also killed in the crash, also settled for $19.95 million.

LA County attorneys believe the settlement is “fair and reasonable” and hopefully allows the Bryant and Chester families to heal from their loss.

Kobe, Gianna and others connected to the Mamba Sports Academy were headed to Thousand Oaks for a youth basketball game when the helicopter they were traveling in crashed killing all nine passengers onboard in the Calabasas Hills west of L.A.

Several months later Vanessa Bryant filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles County, claiming that the first responders took photos of her deceased husband and child as “souvenirs” and inappropriately shared them with others.

In August 2022, a jury awarded Bryant $16 million after she sued the county for negligence and invasion of privacy. 

Federal officials blame pilot error as the cause of the crash.

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA

71-point Performance by Donovan Mitchell Prompted a Drug Tested by NBA

Cleveland Cavaliers All Star Guard Donovan Mitchell

Jason Miller | Credit: Getty Images

By: Adonis Armstrong

26 year old Cleveland Cavaliers guard, Donovan Mitchell, had a record breaking game in scoring against the Chicago Bulls. January 2nd, Monday night Mitchell torched the Bulls with a whooping 71 point performance followed with 11 assists to complete a double double. He also hauled in 8 rebounds as well. While his memorable night energized basketball fans around the world, the NBA wanted to validate his performance by drug testing him.

Even though the action seems like it’s not random because of the timing, it’s completely legal according to the collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association. It reads that players are subjected to four random tests during the year; two during the season and two during the off season. So after the 71 point performance, the league used one of their random tests to make sure Mitchell is an honest player.

Donovan isn’t the first player randomly selected to have a drug test. De’Aron Fox of the Sacramento Kings was subject to one after posting workout videos online. Even Bradly Beal after back to back 50 point games a couple seasons ago had to go through it.

Some fans are arguing that the NBA should test the All NBA guard Luka Doncic, who is having an MVP caliber year himself.

Donovan Mitchell is the 7th player to score 70+ points in an NBA game. pic.twitter.com/N4Bu3akUy0

— NBA (@NBA) January 3, 2023

Mitchell was hot from the field shooting 64 percent from the floor, while making 7 3-pointers, and finishing the game out strong in overtime with 13 points to erase a 21-point deficit to get a win against the Bulls. He is just the seventh player in the league’s history to score 70 points in a game. The last player to accomplish the feat of 70 points is Phoenix Suns All star Guard Devin Booker in a loss to the Boston Celtics on March 24, 2017.

Andddd just like that we are drug tested this morning 😂😂😂 https://t.co/LvlbcPDucP

— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) January 3, 2023

Mitchell joins the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, David Thompson, Elgin Baylor, David Robinson and Devin Booker as the only players to score 70 or more points in an NBA game. 

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA