Best NBA Basketball Teams Of All Time

When we're talking basketball, especially the NBA, everyone's got their favorite teams and opinions, right? But let's be real, some teams just stand out in history. We're going to dive into some of the absolute best NBA basketball teams ever to grace the court. These aren't just teams that won a lot; they're teams that changed the game, set records, and left fans in awe. So, buckle up, guys, because we're about to go on a nostalgia trip and relive some of the greatest moments in NBA history!

Defining a "Great" NBA Team

Okay, before we jump into specific teams, let's set some ground rules. What makes an NBA team truly great? It's not just about racking up wins, although that's definitely a big part of it. We're talking about a combination of factors:

• Dominance: How consistently did they win, and by how much?
• Championships: Did they just have a good regular season, or did they bring home the Larry O'Brien trophy?
• Impact: Did they change the way the game was played, either through innovative strategies or by popularizing a certain style?
• Talent: Obvious, right? But it's not just about having stars; it's about how well those stars meshed together.
• Intangibles: That it factor, the chemistry, the leadership – all those things you can't quite put your finger on but know are essential.

Basically, a great NBA team is more than the sum of its parts. It's a team that not only wins but does so with style, leaving a lasting legacy on the sport. It's that team that everyone remembers and talks about for years to come, inspiring new generations of players and fans.

And when you think about it, that's what makes basketball so exciting. It's not just about the points; it's about the story, the journey, and the unforgettable moments that these teams create. Whether it's a buzzer-beater, an incredible comeback, or a display of pure teamwork, these are the things that make us love the game.

So, with all that in mind, let's get to the teams!

The Contenders for Best NBA Basketball Teams

1995-96 Chicago Bulls

Come on, you knew they'd be here, right? The 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman, are arguably the greatest team ever assembled. Their record speaks for itself: 72-10 in the regular season, a mark that stood for 20 years. It wasn't just the wins, though; it was how they won. Jordan was at the peak of his powers, Pippen was the ultimate all-around player, and Rodman was a rebounding machine and defensive menace. This team dominated on both ends of the court, suffocating opponents with their defense and overwhelming them with their offensive firepower. And let's not forget the supporting cast: players like Toni Kukoc, Steve Kerr, and Ron Harper provided valuable contributions off the bench. They weren't just a team; they were a force of nature, leaving a trail of broken records and shattered opponents in their wake. Even today, NBA fans still talk about this team with a sense of awe and reverence. They set the standard for excellence in the league, and their legacy continues to inspire players and teams to strive for greatness. The 1995-96 Bulls weren't just a great team; they were a cultural phenomenon, capturing the hearts and imaginations of fans around the world. Their impact on the game is undeniable, and their place in NBA history is secure. They epitomized teamwork, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

1985-86 Boston Celtics

Before Jordan's Bulls, there were the Larry Bird-led Boston Celtics. The 1985-86 Celtics were a team built on rivalry and grit. With Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parish, and a young Bill Walton coming off the bench, they had a frontcourt that was virtually unstoppable. Their ball movement was poetry in motion, and their defense was as tough as nails. They finished the regular season with a 67-15 record and steamrolled through the playoffs, ultimately defeating the Houston Rockets in the Finals. What made this team so special was their chemistry and their unwavering belief in each other. They played with a swagger and a confidence that was contagious, and they never backed down from a challenge. They were the epitome of Boston basketball: tough, smart, and relentlessly competitive. The '86 Celtics weren't just a collection of talented individuals; they were a team in the truest sense of the word. They knew each other's strengths and weaknesses, and they played with a synergy that was rare and special. Their coach, K.C. Jones, instilled a sense of discipline and teamwork that allowed them to reach their full potential. They were a team that truly embodied the spirit of Boston, and their legacy continues to resonate with Celtics fans to this day.

2016-17 Golden State Warriors

The 2016-17 Golden State Warriors were a team that redefined offensive basketball. With Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, they possessed an unprecedented level of offensive firepower. They could score from anywhere on the court, and their ball movement was mesmerizing to watch. They finished the regular season with a 67-15 record and then went on a playoff run for the ages, going 16-1 en route to winning the NBA championship. What made this team so special was their ability to adapt and evolve. They could beat you with their shooting, their passing, or their defense. They were a team without any glaring weaknesses, and they were virtually impossible to stop when they were firing on all cylinders. The addition of Kevin Durant to an already potent Warriors team created an offensive juggernaut. The team was a spectacle, drawing comparisons to some of the greatest teams ever assembled. Their impact on the game is still felt today, as teams across the league attempt to emulate their style of play. The Warriors, led by coach Steve Kerr, ushered in a new era of basketball, one defined by pace, space, and unparalleled shooting ability. They weren't just a great team; they were a cultural phenomenon that captivated fans around the world.

1996-97 Chicago Bulls

Yes, another Bulls team! The 1996-97 Chicago Bulls often get overshadowed by their 72-10 counterparts, but they were still an incredible team in their own right. They finished the regular season with a 69-13 record and won their fifth NBA championship, defeating the Utah Jazz in a thrilling six-game series. While they may not have had the same record as the '96 Bulls, they were arguably a more battle-tested team, having faced tougher competition in the playoffs. Jordan was still at the top of his game, and Pippen and Rodman continued to be key contributors. This team was all about grit and determination, and they found ways to win even when they weren't at their best. They were a team that refused to be denied, and their championship victory was a testament to their resilience and mental toughness. The 1996-97 Bulls faced numerous challenges throughout the season, including injuries and fatigue, but they never wavered in their pursuit of excellence. They were a team that understood the importance of teamwork, and they relied on each other to overcome adversity. Their victory over the Jazz solidified their place as one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history, and their legacy continues to inspire players and fans to this day.

2000-01 Los Angeles Lakers

The 2000-01 Los Angeles Lakers, led by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, were a force of nature in the playoffs. After a slightly underwhelming regular season by their standards, they went on an incredible 15-1 run through the playoffs, dominating every opponent in their path. Shaq was virtually unstoppable in the paint, and Kobe was a rising superstar, capable of taking over games with his scoring prowess. This team was all about power and skill, and they overwhelmed opponents with their size and athleticism. They were the embodiment of L.A. cool, and their championship victory cemented their place as one of the greatest duos in NBA history. What made this team so special was the dynamic between Shaq and Kobe. They were two alpha dogs who pushed each other to be their best. While their relationship was often tumultuous, their on-court chemistry was undeniable. They were a perfect complement to each other, and they formed an unstoppable force that led the Lakers to three consecutive championships. The 2000-01 Lakers were a team that exuded confidence and swagger, and their dominance in the playoffs was a testament to their talent and determination. They were a team that captured the imagination of fans around the world, and their legacy continues to inspire players and teams to strive for greatness.

Honorable Mentions in Best NBA Basketball Teams

• 1960s Boston Celtics: Eight straight championships? Enough said.
• 1980s Los Angeles Lakers: "Showtime" at its finest.
• 1970s Portland Trail Blazers: Bill Walton led this team to a title with a revolutionary style of play.

So, Who is the GOAT? (Greatest of All Time)

Ultimately, the "best NBA basketball team of all time" is a matter of opinion. Each of these teams had its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and each left its own indelible mark on the game. However, one thing is for sure: they were all great, and they all deserve to be remembered as some of the best to ever do it. Whether you're a fan of the high-flying Warriors, the tough-as-nails Celtics, or the dominant Bulls and Lakers, you can appreciate the greatness of these teams and the incredible moments they created. They represent the pinnacle of basketball achievement, and their legacy will continue to inspire players and fans for generations to come. And who knows, maybe someday we'll see another team rise to the level of these legends and stake their claim as the greatest of all time. Until then, we can continue to debate and celebrate the incredible history of the NBA and the unforgettable teams that have made it so special.