Over the years, African Americans have started dominating sports around the world. While there are still a few sports without black leaders, most sports have been overtaken by African American athletes. Many of these players have set new records, shattered myths, and changed the game. Basketball is one of the leading sports for African Americans. Most of the league’s top players are black. Who is leading the NBA? Continue reading this guide to find out about the best black basketball players in the world.
LeBron James
It is impossible to create a list without adding LeBron James to it. He is easily the best active basketball player in the world. The 37-year-old small forward was born in Akron, Ohio on December 30, 1984. James had to overcome the adversity of his childhood to reach the pinnacle of the sport. His father, Anthony McClelland, had an extensive criminal history and wasn’t in his life. The family often lived in the shadiest neighborhoods due to Gloria’s inability to find work. Eventually, she allowed her son to move in with a local youth football coach named Frank Walker. James started playing basketball when he was in the 5th grade.
James and his friends eventually moved to St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. At the time, it was a predominantly white school. Regardless, James thrived at the school and averaged 21 points as a freshman. The team won 27 games and lost zero while winning the Division III state title. From there, James only got better. During his sophomore year, he averaged 25.2 points. The team finished the season with a record of 26 wins and 1 loss. It also ended the season as state champions again. In 2004, James was named the NBA Rookie of the Year.
During his NBA career, he played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers. He has won four NBA Championships and 4 NBA Finals MVPs. Suffice to say, he is one of the best players in the world.
Shaquille O’Neal
It is hard to deny the fact that Shaq is one of the best black ballplayers ever. He managed to excel in other areas as well. The 50-year-old was born in Newark, New Jersey on March 6, 1972. Shaq was born to Joe Toney and Lucille O’Neal. When Shaq was an infant, his father spent time in prison and struggled with drug addiction. His father eventually stepped out of his life. Instead, he was raised by his mother and Jamaican stepfather named Phillip Harrison. Since Phillip was a career Army sergeant, they were often on the move. The family spent time at military bases in Texas and Germany.
Shaq claimed that the Boys & Girls Club of America gave him a safe place to meet with friends and play. He was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 1993. He also won four NBA Championships. During his career, he had 28,596 points and 13,099 rebounds. Shaq also had 2,732 blocks. Off the court, Shaq has been involved in professional wrestling, advertising, and more. If you enjoy สล็อตเว็บตรง แตกง่าย, you can always bet that Shaq will be bigger than life.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is one of the best-recognized black basketball players. The 59-year-old was born in Brooklyn on February 17, 1963. Thanks to his outstanding career in the NBA, he went on to become a cultural icon. He also played other sports. Michael spent the majority of his career with the Chicago Bulls. His first stint with the team started in 1984 and ended in 1993. Then, he came back in 1995 and left again in 1998. Finally, Jordan started playing with the Washington Wizards in 2001 and ended his career in 2003. Jordan was the 1985 NBA Rookie of the Year. He also won six NBA championships and six NBA Finals MVPs.
During his career, Michael had 32,292 points and 6,672 rebounds. Plus, he had 5,633 assists. Suffice to say, he is one of the best players to ever do it. He won two Olympic gold medals with the United States men’s basketball team. Since then, Jordan has been involved in the sport as an owner. He also got involved in NASCAR when he teamed up with popular black racer Bubba Wallace.
