Beyond the stats: Top 10 NBA players who shaped the game The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been home to some of the greatest basketball players in history. These athletes not only dominated the court but also changed the way the game was played. Key takeaways Some of the best NBA players of all time who changed how the game is played include Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird. Improve your chances of winning when betting on NBA matches by researching teams and players, learning different bet types, and staying updated. Meet the top NBA players of all-time who left a lasting impact on basketball, influencing the next generations and how the sport is played below: Michael Jordan Michael Jordan played most of his career with the Chicago Bulls, winning six NBA championships.