The 10 Greatest Big Threes in NBA History

In the rich tapestry of NBA history, teams have often been defined by the triumvirates that led them to glory. These “Big Threes” have combined skill, leadership, and teamwork to achieve remarkable success. Here’s a look at the ten greatest Big Threes in NBA history.

1. Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman (Chicago Bulls)

The Chicago Bulls of the 1990s are often considered the gold standard of NBA success. Michael Jordan’s unparalleled scoring ability, Scottie Pippen’s versatility, and Dennis Rodman’s rebounding and defensive prowess formed a perfect trifecta. Together, they led the Bulls to three consecutive championships from 1996 to 1998. Jordan and Pippen’s offensive synergy, combined with Rodman’s tenacity, made this trio almost unbeatable.

2. Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy (Los Angeles Lakers)

The Showtime Lakers of the 1980s were defined by their fast-paced, high-scoring play, and the trio of Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy was at the heart of it. Magic’s visionary playmaking, Kareem’s skyhook and scoring ability, and Worthy’s clutch performances in the playoffs helped the Lakers secure five championships in the decade. Their chemistry on the court was a spectacle, dominating the league with their style and efficiency.

3. Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish (Boston Celtics)

In the 1980s, the Boston Celtics’ Big Three of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish were formidable opponents. Bird’s sharpshooting and intelligence, McHale’s post moves and defense, and Parish’s rebounding and inside scoring provided the Celtics with a balanced and potent lineup. They secured three NBA titles in 1981, 1984, and 1986, establishing themselves as one of the greatest trios in basketball history.

4. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili (San Antonio Spurs)

The San Antonio Spurs’ dynasty from the late 1990s to the mid-2010s was anchored by Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili. Duncan’s fundamental brilliance, Parker’s quickness and scoring, and Ginobili’s creativity and flair led the Spurs to four championships (2003, 2005, 2007, 2014). Their selfless play and adherence to team principles were key to their sustained success.

5. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh (Miami Heat)

When LeBron James joined forces with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami in 2010, they formed one of the most talked-about Big Threes in NBA history. Their four-year run resulted in four NBA Finals appearances and two championships (2012, 2013). LeBron’s all-around game, Wade’s slashing ability, and Bosh’s inside-outside scoring made them a nightmare for opponents.

6. Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors)

The modern era has been dominated by the Golden State Warriors’ Big Three of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Curry’s revolutionary three-point shooting, Thompson’s scoring and defense, and Green’s playmaking and defensive versatility have propelled the Warriors to four championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022). Their style of play has changed the way basketball is played in the NBA.

7. Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and Derek Fisher (Los Angeles Lakers)

The early 2000s Lakers were powered by the dominant presence of Shaquille O’Neal and the emerging brilliance of Kobe Bryant, with Derek Fisher providing clutch shooting and leadership. This trio led the Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. Shaq’s unstoppable force in the paint, Kobe’s scoring and competitive drive, and Fisher’s steady hand were a perfect blend.

8. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen (Boston Celtics)

In 2007, the Boston Celtics formed a new Big Three by bringing together Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen. Their instant chemistry resulted in an NBA championship in 2008. Garnett’s defensive intensity, Pierce’s scoring ability, and Allen’s sharpshooting revitalized the Celtics, making them a formidable force in the late 2000s.

9. Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Maurice Cheeks (Philadelphia 76ers)

The 1983 Philadelphia 76ers, led by Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Maurice Cheeks, are remembered for their dominant run to the NBA title. Erving’s scoring and athleticism, Malone’s rebounding and inside presence, and Cheeks’ playmaking and defense formed a trio that powered the 76ers to a championship with a remarkable 12-1 playoff record.

10. Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, and Dennis Rodman (Detroit Pistons)

The Detroit Pistons’ “Bad Boys” era of the late 1980s and early 1990s was defined by the tough and tenacious play of Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, and Dennis Rodman. This trio’s combination of scoring, defense, and grit led the Pistons to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990. Thomas’s leadership, Dumars’s consistency, and Rodman’s defensive prowess and rebounding were the foundation of their success.

Conclusion

The legacy of these Big Threes transcends their individual achievements. They exemplify the essence of teamwork, resilience, and the strategic brilliance that defines championship basketball. From the dominant Bulls of the 90s to the revolutionary Warriors of today, these trios have left an indelible mark on the NBA, setting a standard for future generations. The synergy they created not only led to championships but also influenced the evolution of the game itself.