The never-ending debate over who is the "greatest ever in [insert sport here]" requires Britannica—or at least one of its editors—to weigh in. Although we aren't officially a sports website, our editor basketball legends has spent the better part of three decades watching and fighting about various sporting events with pals. Do not put too much stock in this list because it is, of course, highly subjective. If we are in agreement, then what I have written is the most profound thing I have ever done.

The initial publication of this list occurred in April 2014. By February of 2023, LeBron James has passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the title of NBA highest scorer.