The 27 Best Shooting Guards of All Time

Shooting guards have shaped basketball through scoring, perimeter defense and high-pressure moments. Known for creating space and delivering clutch plays, they often serve as the offensive engine while guarding top threats on the other end.

The Best Shooting Guards of All Time

Shooting guards rank among the most dynamic scorers in basketball history. Like the best small forwards and dominant big men — including the best NBA power forwards and the best centers of all time — they’ve transformed eras and raised the level of play. With deep shooting range, body control in traffic and relentless defense, elite two-guards redefine the position. As new stars emerge, the list will continue to evolve. And while not a traditional shooting guard, Giannis Antetokounmpo — who shot 61% from the field — shows how roles and expectations keep shifting.   

1. Michael Jordan

Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.3 SPG 

Considered the best shooting goal of all times, Jordan’s combination of scoring, leadership and defensive tenacity set a permanent standard. Air Jordan won six NBA championships in eight years, thus denying fierce rivals their rings. He also holds the NBA record for highest career scoring average and ranks in the Top five all-time in points and steals for his entire career.

2. Kobe Bryant

Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG

Known for his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played as a shooting guard, Bryant delivered five championships for the Lakers. He earned 18 All-Star selections and won two Finals MVPs. As one of the best small forwards of all time, he defined excellence in the modern era. His footwork, range and competitiveness inspired an entire generation. Bryant’s intense training routine often pushed his body past its limits, resulting in physical setbacks throughout his career. Many of these were a consequence of overuse — the most common cause of sports injuries, especially among NBA players.

3. Dwyane Wade

Stats: 22.3 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.5 SPG

Wade carried Miami to three NBA titles. He combined slashing offense with elite perimeter defense. The 2006 Finals MVP played 16 seasons and earned 13 All-Star selections. He also earned All-NBA honors multiple times and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Wade stands among the best defensive shooting guards and top scorers at his position.

4. James Harden

Stats: 22.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.5 SPG

James Harden’s offensive innovation, including leading the league in scoring for three consecutive seasons, positions him among the best shooting guards 2025 continues to watch. His 2018 MVP award and multiple 50-point triple-doubles highlight his impact. 

5. Jerry West

Stats: 27.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.6 SPG

West made 10 NBA Finals appearances and earned Finals MVP in a losing effort. Known as “Mr. Clutch” — a nickname stemming from his ability to make clutch plays and big shots, particularly in the later stages of games — is shooting and leadership were foundational. He played in an era with limited stats, though his legacy as one of the best shooting guards ever remains.

6. Allen Iverson

Stats: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.2 SPG

Iverson’s quickness and fearlessness made him a cultural icon. The 2001 MVP led the league in scoring four times. He played 14 seasons and brought Philadelphia to the 2001 Finals. Iverson ranks among the best shooting guards in NBA history for his relentless pace.

7. Clyde Drexler

Stats: 20.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 5.6 APG, 2.0 SPG

Showcasing a Hall of Fame career with the Portland Trail Blazers and Houston Rockets, Drexler consistently ranks high among the best shooting guards of all time. Drexler reached two NBA Finals and won a title with Houston in 1995. His smooth scoring and transition game set him apart. Plus, he earned 10 All-Star selections. 

8. Devin Booker

Stats: 25.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 7.1 APG, 0.9 SPG

He captured the spotlight in 2017 at just 20 years old by scoring 70 points in a single game, making him the youngest player ever and the sixth in NBA history to achieve such an impressive feat. He is a four-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA member and the Suns’ all-time leading scorer. As a rising star, he represents the future among the best shooting guards 2025 will celebrate.

9. Tracy McGrady

Stats: 19.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.3 SPG

Tracy McGrady’s two scoring titles and seven All-Star appearances highlight his offensive prowess. His exceptional scoring ability, athleticism and versatility make him a peak performer, securing his place among the best shooting guards ever.

10. Klay Thompson

Stats: 19.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.8 SPG

Klay Thompson’s role in the Warriors’ dynasty, including four championships, showcases his elite shooting and perimeter defense. His 60-point game in under 30 minutes during a game against the Indiana Pacers on December 5, 2016, exemplifies his efficiency among the best defensive shooting guards. 

11. Vince Carter

Stats: 16.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.1 APG, 0.8 SPG

Because of his incredible athleticism, scoring prowess and unique ability to combine explosive dunks with a strong shooting touch, Vince Carter is one of the best shooters of all time. His ability to transition from a superstar to a savvy role player also makes him a unique figure in NBA history. 

12. Pete Maravich

Stats: 24.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.4 SPG

100 words

“Pistol” Pete Maravich remains the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer with 3,667 points — a mind-boggling 44.2 points per game. Known for his creative and flashy ball-handling, often described as a “yo-yo” due to his ability to manipulate the ball in various ways. 

13. Sam Jones

Stats: 17.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.5 APG

Known for his accurate bank shots, clutch performances and his role in the Boston Celtics’ dynasty, Jones won 10 championships with the team. His clutch shooting and consistency made him essential to their dynasty. His skill with the bank shot and his overall offensive prowess were key to the Celtics’ success

14. Manu Ginobili

Stats: 13.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.3 SPG

Renowned for his exceptional court vision, playmaking abilities and a knack for scoring in difficult situations, Manu Ginobilli is one of the best shooting guards ever. His influence on the championship-winning San Antonio Spurs, especially in his role as a sixth man, plays a crucial part in his legacy. Although his scoring average may not match that of some elite guards, his impressive free-throw percentage and strong defensive skills present a strong argument for his place among the best.

15. Joe Dumars

Stats: 16.1 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.9 SPG

Dumars helped Detroit win two championships. He guarded Michael Jordan as well as anyone in the league. The 1989 Finals MVP ranks among the best defensive shooting guards and also contributed solid offense. His strong, disciplined footwork and his ability to stay in front of opposing guards make it difficult for them to get open shots

16. George Gervin

Stats: 26.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 SPG

Gervin’s finger roll is legendary. He topped the league in scoring four times and was selected for nine All-Star teams. While he may not have secured a championship, his legacy as one of the greatest shooters and an all-time great player is undeniable. Chosen by the All-Star team nine times, he is part of history. 

17. Earl Monroe

Stats: 18.8 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.0 SPG

Nicknamed “Earl Monroe”, dazzled with style and creativity. He was a player for the New York Knicks and celebrated an NBA championship victory with them in 1973. His exceptional one-on-one abilities and style made him one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history.

18. Bill Sharman

Stats: 18.1 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 3.0 APG

Bill Sharman was a notable NBA player during the 1950s, recognized for his outstanding free-throw shooting and leadership that played a key role in the Boston Celtics’ success. He also enjoyed a fruitful coaching career afterward. His talents and impact rank him among the finest shooting guards in NBA history.

19. Gail Goodrich

Stats: 18.8 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 0.2 SPG

Gail Goodrich enjoyed a remarkable 14-year career in the NBA, representing teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns and Utah Jazz. He was the leading scorer for the Lakers during their championship run in 1972. A five-time All-Star, he was celebrated for his well-rounded game and scoring prowess, consistently delivering strong performances throughout his career.

20. Mitch Richmond

Stats: 21.0 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.2 SPG

Richmond was a six-time NBA All-Star, a five-time member of the All-NBA Team and he also earned the title of NBA Rookie of the Year. Over the course of 976 NBA games, he averaged 21.0 points and 3.5 assists per game. In 2014, he was honored with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

21. Ray Allen

Stats: 18.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.1 SPG

Ray Allen’s shooting played a key role in championship wins for both Boston and Miami. His game-six three-pointer in the 2013 Finals tied the score with seconds remaining and shifted momentum toward the Heat’s eventual title. Widely regarded as one of the best shooters in NBA history, Allen’s consistency, range and clutch performances helped redefine the shooting guard role for the modern era.

22. Reggie Miller

Stats: 18.2 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.1 SPG

Standing out for his incredible clutch shooting and three-point prowess, Miller spent his entire career in Indiana. Miller’s place among the best shooting guards ever stems from his postseason heroics and scoring ability. He is among just nine players to achieve the impressive 50–40–90 club and during his career, he made 2,560 three-pointers, setting an NBA record when he retired.

23. Lou Hudson

Stats: 20.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.4 SPG

Yes, Lou Hudson played on six All-Star teams — all of those appearances were while playing for the Atlanta Hawks. He combined strength and finesse, scoring consistently for over a decade. In 13 NBA seasons, the six-time NBA All-Star averaged over 20 points per game for his career. He spent the last two seasons of his career with the Los Angeles Lakers before retiring in 1979. 

24. Walter Davis

Stats: 18.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.1 SPG

Walter Davis is often regarded as one of the greatest shooting guards in history. His impressive career statistics and significant influence on the game, especially during his time with the Phoenix Suns, firmly establish him as one of the elite shooting guards. His career accolades include six All-Star selections and an All-NBA Second Team selection during his first two seasons. 

25. Joe Johnson

Stats: 16.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.8 SPG

Johnson earned the nickname “Iso Joe” because of his strong isolation game. Eventually, it evolved to be a term of respect for his scoring prowess and ability to create shots on his own. He played for 16 seasons in the NBA, scoring over 20,000 points and making 7 All-Star teams.

26. David Thompson

Stats: 22.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.9 SPG

Because of his vertical leap and his scoring ability, including his record-breaking 73-point game, David Thompson stands out as one of the best shooting guards of all time. He is celebrated as one of the greatest shooting guards ever, having led the Denver Nuggets during the early NBA-ABA merger.

27. Allen Houston

Stats: 17.3 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.7 SPG

Ray Allen ranks among the NBA’s most accurate and influential shooters. Known for his smooth form and intense discipline, he redefined the value of the three-point shot and held the league’s record for most threes until Stephen Curry broke it. Allen’s ability to deliver under pressure was clear in Game 6 of the 2013 Finals, when his clutch shot helped Miami force overtime and win the title.

Final Thoughts 

From Jordan’s dominance to Booker’s rising stardom, shooting guards have driven the NBA’s most iconic moments. Each era brings fresh talent and shifting roles, but elite two-guards remain defined by scoring instincts, defensive pressure and the ability to rise in big moments. As the game changes, the names may rotate — but greatness at this position endures.