Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has never been one to shy away from 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, Green’s confidence is well-earned. However, his latest claim has sent shockwaves through the NBA community.
During a recent episode of The Draymond Green Show on June 3, a fan asked Green to name the best defensive players in NBA history. Without hesitation, the Warriors veteran placed himself at the very top of the list. “What you should understand about me is that I think I’m No. 1 on that list,” Green declared with his trademark conviction. When pressed to name his top five, he added, “I’m not a fan of those ordered lists, but I’d definitely put myself on that list.”
Green’s top five, in no particular order, included himself alongside a quartet of defensive titans: Ben Wallace, Tony Allen, Tim Duncan, and Hakeem Olajuwon—all Hall of Famers or future Hall of Fame candidates. His selections reflect a blend of modern and historical greatness, but Green admitted to a deliberate recency bias. He explained that he found it challenging to rank all-time greats like Bill Russell or Wilt Chamberlain, as he hadn’t seen enough of their games to fairly evaluate them. Notably, Green has faced three of his four listed players—Wallace, Allen, and Duncan—during his career, which likely influenced his choices.
The boldness of Green’s self-proclamation as the greatest defender in NBA history has sparked heated debates among fans and analysts alike. While his defensive accolades and versatility as a defender are undeniable, ranking himself above legends like Olajuwon or Duncan has raised eyebrows. Yet, for those familiar with Green’s fiery personality and competitive spirit, this declaration is just another chapter in his storied career.
As the NBA world continues to react, one thing is clear: Draymond Green’s confidence in his defensive legacy is as unshakeable as his on-court intensity.