Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green is no stranger to bold statements, especially when it comes to his defensive prowess. With a resume that boasts nine NBA All-Defensive Team selections and the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year award over his 13 seasons with the Warriors, Green’s confidence is well-earned. But his latest claim on The Draymond Green Show on June 3, 2025, has sparked heated debate among basketball fans.
When a fan asked Green to name the best defensive players in NBA history, he didn’t hesitate to place himself at the pinnacle. “What you should understand about me is that I think I’m No. 1 on that list,” Green declared. While he shied away from ranking his top five in order, he didn’t hold back in naming the elite company he believes he keeps.
“My top five in no particular order is myself, Ben Wallace, Tony Allen, Tim Duncan, and Hakeem Olajuwon,” Green said, listing a group of Hall of Famers alongside his own name. The selection reflects a blend of modern and legendary talent, showcasing Green’s respect for players he’s faced or studied closely.
Green’s list, however, comes with a touch of recency bias, which he openly acknowledged. He explained that evaluating all-time greats like Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain was challenging due to limited exposure to their games. “I haven’t seen enough of their game to rank them,” Green admitted. Notably, Green has competed against three of his chosen four—Wallace, Allen, and Duncan—lending a personal perspective to his picks.
While Green’s self-proclamation as the NBA’s greatest defender has raised eyebrows, his defensive accolades speak for themselves. His versatility, basketball IQ, and relentless energy have made him a cornerstone of the Warriors’ dynasty. Yet, placing himself above icons like Olajuwon and Duncan has ignited discussions about whether Green’s confidence crosses into audacity or if his resume truly backs his bold claim. What do you think—does Draymond Green belong at the top of the NBA’s defensive pantheon?