About the 75th Anniversary Team
On October 21, 2021, the NBA unveiled its 75th Anniversary Team during the league's 75th season. A blue-ribbon panel of current and former NBA players, coaches, general managers, and basketball executives voted to select the 75 greatest players in league history. The announcement was made in three separate installments over the first week of the 2021-22 season.
The list built upon the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, which was announced in 1996. All 50 members of that original team were retained on the 75th Anniversary Team. The panel added 25 new players to reflect the evolution of the game over the subsequent quarter century, including stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Damian Lillard.
Due to a tie in the voting, the final list actually included 76 players rather than the intended 75. The NBA chose to honor all tied players rather than break the tie, making the official roster 76 members strong.
Selection Process
The panel consisted of a select group of current and former NBA players, coaches, general managers, team and league executives, and WNBA legends and executives. Voters were asked to select the top 75 NBA players of all time, regardless of era, position, or team. The voting was conducted confidentially, and the final results were tabulated by Ernst & Young.
Active Players on the List
Several active players at the time of announcement were included, notably LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard, and Chris Paul. Their inclusion while still playing underscored their already-cemented legacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there 76 players on the 75th Anniversary Team?
Due to a tie in the voting process, the NBA decided to include all tied players rather than break the tie. This resulted in 76 players being honored instead of the intended 75.
Who selected the 75th Anniversary Team?
A blue-ribbon panel of current and former NBA players, coaches, general managers, team executives, league officials, and WNBA legends voted to determine the list. The votes were tabulated by Ernst & Young.
Were all members of the 50th Anniversary Team included?
Yes. All 50 members of the NBA at 50 team (announced in 1996) were automatically included on the 75th Anniversary Team. The panel selected 25 additional players from the post-1996 era and earlier eras.
Which active players were included?
At the time of announcement in 2021, active players included LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Chris Paul, Kawhi Leonard, Damian Lillard, Anthony Davis, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook.
What criteria were used for selection?
Voters considered career accomplishments, individual awards, All-Star and All-NBA selections, championships, statistical impact, and overall contribution to the game. There was no specific weighting formula — voters used their own judgment.