How We Build the NBA Team of the Week
Every week, our algorithm evaluates all active players and selects the best five-man lineup — one player per position. The selection is based on a composite efficiency score that weights scoring, rebounding, assists, steals, blocks, and turnovers. This creates a “dream team” lineup that would dominate on both ends of the floor.
The Selection Process
Players are scored using the formula: PPG + RPG×1.2 + APG×1.5 + SPG×3 + BPG×3 − TOPG. The algorithm then picks the highest-scoring player at each position (PG, SG, SF, PF, C) to form the starting five. The next five best unused players become the bench. A small weekly rotation factor ensures variety while keeping the best performers consistently featured.
Position Balance
Requiring one player per position ensures the lineup is realistic and playable. In real basketball, you need ball handling (PG), perimeter scoring (SG), wing versatility (SF), interior presence (PF), and rim protection (C). Our algorithm respects these roles while finding the most productive player at each.
This Week's Lineup
This week's starting five features Luka Doncic at PG, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at SG, LeBron James at SF, Giannis Antetokounmpo at PF, and Joel Embiid at C. Combined, they average 154.8 points, 44.5 rebounds, and 36.4 assists per game — a historically dominant statistical lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does the Team of the Week change?
The team rotates weekly based on a date-seeded algorithm. While the underlying player stats determine the core selections, a small weekly rotation factor ensures some variety in the lineup from week to week.
Can two players from the same team be selected?
Yes. The only constraint is one player per position. If the best PG and best SG happen to be on the same NBA team, they can both be selected.
What is the efficiency score?
The composite efficiency score is: PPG + RPG*1.2 + APG*1.5 + SPG*3 + BPG*3 - TOPG. This weights defensive events (steals, blocks) heavily because they are rare and impactful, while penalizing turnovers.
How far back do the previous teams go?
We display the previous 4 weeks of Team of the Week selections. Each historical lineup was generated using the same algorithm with that week's rotation seed.