In the world of professional basketball, NBA championships and Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards are the ultimate badges of honour.
They symbolise a player’s exceptional talent, dedication, and contribution to their team’s success.
In this article, we delve into the elite echelons of the NBA, spotlighting the players who have achieved the remarkable feat of combining the most championships and MVP awards in their illustrious careers.
These players are not just basketball legends; they are the living embodiment of excellence on the court, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the sport. We have already seen how Michael Jordan tops the list for most combined Finals MVPs and MVPs, but it is time to take a different approach now.
This list showcases the titans of the NBA who have not only conquered the league but have done so while earning the coveted title of Most Valuable Player and hoisting the championship trophy high above their heads.
Here are the 11 NBA players with the most combined championships and most valuable awards, signaling a mix of team and individual dominance over their careers.
7T. Stephen Curry – 6 (4 NBA Championships + 2 MVP Awards)
Credit: Stephen Curry/Twitter
NBA Championships: 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022
MVP Awards: 2015, 2016
Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ sharpshooting maestro, has etched his name in the annals of NBA history with a remarkable combination of championships and MVP awards. Curry’s journey to greatness began to shine brightly in the 2014-15 season as he spearheaded the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 40 years.
That year, he not only secured his inaugural MVP award but also shattered the record books with an astonishing 286 three-pointers, redefining the league’s perception of long-range shooting. The “Splash Brother” had arrived, and he was making waves.
Curry’s astonishing trajectory continued in the following season, where he once again claimed the MVP title. His prolific shooting and seemingly limitless range transformed the game itself, leading the Warriors to a record-breaking 73-9 regular season, eclipsing the legendary 1995-96 Chicago Bulls’ previous record of 72 wins.
While the championship remained elusive that year, Curry’s impact on the sport was undeniable, with his audacious three-pointers and dribbling wizardry captivating fans worldwide. Yet, Stephen Curry’s story didn’t end there.
He would go on to add three more championships to his collection in 2017, 2018, and 2022, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players of his generation. In an era where the three-point shot reigns supreme, Curry’s unmatched shooting prowess, combined with his ability to lead his team to victory, has left an indelible mark on the NBA landscape, forever altering the way the game is played and celebrated.
7T. Wilt Chamberlain – 6 (2 NBA Championships + 4 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 1967, 1972
MVP Awards: 1960, 1966, 1967, 1968
Wilt Chamberlain left an indelible mark with his combination of championships and MVP awards. Standing at an imposing 7’1”, Chamberlain’s dominance was evident from the outset of his career. In 1960, he claimed his first MVP award, setting the tone for a career defined by unprecedented individual achievements.
His incredible athleticism, scoring prowess, and sheer physicality made him a league sensation. The late 1960s saw Chamberlain at the peak of his powers, as he secured MVP honors for three consecutive seasons from 1966 to 1968. During this remarkable stretch, he not only showcased his scoring ability but also transformed into a formidable defensive presence.
In 1967, Chamberlain led the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA championship, further solidifying his status as one of the era’s most dominant players. As a member of the Lakers alongside Jerry West, Wilt added the 1972 NBA title which solidified his legacy as a top-10 player of all time forever.
Chamberlain’s championship tally may stand at two, but his impact on the game goes far beyond titles. His unparalleled scoring records, including the famous 100-point game in 1962, are testaments to his basketball prowess. Chamberlain’s legacy endures as a symbol of dominance and excellence, making him a true legend of the sport.
7T. Larry Bird – 6 (3 NBA Championships + 3 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 1981, 1984, 1986
MVP Awards: 1984, 1985, 1986
Larry Bird, a basketball icon of the 1980s, stands as a testament to the sublime combination of championships and MVP awards. Bird’s career with the Boston Celtics was nothing short of legendary, marked by a trio of NBA championships and an impressive three consecutive MVP titles from 1984 to 1986. He was more than a player; he was a symbol of excellence and a paragon of versatility.
Bird’s championship journey began in 1981, when he led the Celtics to victory in his rookie season, a feat rarely seen in the history of the sport. His leadership, deadly three-point shooting, and remarkable court vision were on full display during the ’80s, culminating in championships in 1984 and 1986. These titles were not just victories; they were showcases of Bird’s extraordinary basketball IQ and clutch performances, as he battled against the era’s toughest competitors.
The MVP awards he secured in consecutive years solidified Bird’s place as one of the greatest players in NBA history. His rivalry with Magic Johnson during this era transcended the sport itself, captivating fans and propelling basketball into the mainstream. Bird’s impact on the game, both as a player and a cultural figure, remains enduring, making him an eternal symbol of excellence on the hardwood.
7T. Kobe Bryant – 6 (5 NBA Championships + 1 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2009, 2010
MVP Awards: 2008
Kobe Bryant, the Black Mamba, is an indomitable figure in the pantheon of NBA greats, celebrated for his combination of championships and an MVP award. Bryant’s career with the Los Angeles Lakers is a story of relentless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering commitment to victory from the moment he became a regular starter in his second season.
In the early 2000s, Kobe played a pivotal role in securing three consecutive NBA championships for the Lakers, from 2000 to 2002, cementing their dynasty. His partnership with Shaquille O’Neal became legendary, and his scoring prowess was awe-inspiring. The Lakers would experience a resurgence in 2009 and 2010, with Kobe leading the way to two more championships, solidifying his status as one of the most clutch players in the game’s history.
While his MVP award came in 2008 (averaging 28.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game), Kobe’s impact extended far beyond individual accolades. He was a fierce competitor, renowned for his work ethic and tenacity, and his contributions to the Lakers franchise and the sport itself are immeasurable. His legacy as a basketball icon endures, a testament to his unyielding pursuit of greatness on the hardwood.
6T. Bob Cousy – 7 (6 NBA Championships + 1 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963
MVP Awards: 1957
Bob Cousy, often referred to as the “Houdini of the Hardwood,” stands as one of the true legends of the NBA, boasting an extraordinary combination of championships and an MVP award. Cousy’s era was defined by his masterful playmaking skills and a remarkable six championship victories with the Boston Celtics.
In 1957, Cousy not only secured his sole MVP award (20.6 points and league-leading 7.5 assists per game) but also led the Celtics to an NBA championship, marking the beginning of an unprecedented dynasty. His wizardry on the court, characterized by slick passes and innovative ball-handling, was instrumental in Boston’s string of titles from 1957 to 1963, a feat yet to be equaled. Cousy’s impact on the game transcended his statistics, as he redefined the point guard position and left an enduring legacy that continues to influence generations of players.
The Celtics’ golden era of the late 1950s and early 1960s is synonymous with Bob Cousy, and his contributions to the sport remain a cornerstone of its history. His six championships and MVP award stand as a testament to his exceptional skill and leadership, solidifying his place among the NBA’s all-time greats.
6T. Tim Duncan – 7 (5 NBA Championships + 2 MVP Awards)
NBA Championships: 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014
MVP Awards: 2002, 2003
Tim Duncan, the stoic cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs, is a towering figure in the NBA’s annals, celebrated for his extraordinary blend of championships and MVP accolades. Duncan’s illustrious career, marked by consistency and excellence, left an indelible mark on the sport because he retired as the greatest power forward ever and that title remains today.
Duncan’s MVP awards in 2002 and 2003 reflected his incredible impact on both ends of the floor, as he masterfully led the Spurs to NBA championships in those same years. His ability to dominate in the paint and provide stellar defense made him the embodiment of team-first basketball. Beyond those titles, Duncan added three more championships to his collection in 2005, 2007, and 2014, cementing the Spurs as one of the most successful franchises in NBA history.
Throughout his career, Duncan exemplified the virtues of humility and teamwork, earning him the moniker “The Big Fundamental.” His seven championships and MVP honors are emblematic of his unwavering commitment to excellence and his enduring legacy as one of the most respected players to ever grace the hardwood.
4T. Magic Johnson – 8 (5 NBA Championships + 3 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988
MVP Awards: 1987, 1989, 1990
Magic Johnson, the charismatic maestro of Showtime, stands as one of the most electrifying players in NBA history, boasting a dazzling combination of championships and MVP awards. Johnson’s tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers was an era defined by both style and substance, capturing the hearts of fans around the world.
In the 1980s, Magic led the Lakers to five NBA championships, winning titles in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988. His exceptional ball-handling, no-look passes, and infectious enthusiasm for the game made him a transcendent figure. Johnson’s two MVP awards in 1987 and 1989 further underscored his prowess as both a playmaker and leader, as he orchestrated one of the most potent and entertaining offenses in NBA history.
Magic’s legacy extends beyond mere statistics. He embodied the spirit of the game, infusing it with a unique blend of joy and competitiveness. His eight championships and MVP awards serve as a testament to his extraordinary impact on basketball and his enduring status as an icon of the sport.
4T. LeBron James – 8 (4 NBA Championships + 4 MVP Awards)
Credit: Fredy Køciangi
NBA Championship: 2012, 2013, 2016, 2020
MVP Awards: 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013
LeBron James reigns supreme with a nearly unparalleled combination of championships and MVP awards. His career, marked by prodigious talent and relentless determination, has left an indelible mark on the world of basketball when it comes to incredible longevity, regular-season success, and ability to form superteams everywhere he goes.
LeBron’s journey to greatness reached its zenith in Miami, where he secured back-to-back NBA championships in 2012 and 2013. These titles were accompanied by MVP awards in the same years, underlining his status as the league’s preeminent force. His transcendent ability to impact every facet of the game was a testament to his extraordinary versatility and basketball IQ.
LeBron’s championship story continued with a historic comeback victory in 2016, bringing a title to his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, and another in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers alongside Anthony Davis in the “bubble”. Alongside these championships, his MVP awards in 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013 solidify his place as one of the greatest players in NBA history. LeBron’s legacy extends beyond the hardwood; he is a symbol of excellence and inspiration, inspiring generations of athletes around the globe.
3. Michael Jordan – 11 (6 NBA Championships + 5 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998
MVP Awards: 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998
Michael Jordan stands as one of the paragons of championships and MVP awards in the NBA. His career is the stuff of legends, defined by unparalleled success and individual excellence. That is why he is considered the greatest player of all time, winning MVP awards during his prime and also completing two separate three-peats.
Jordan’s six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s, achieved in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, and 1998, mark an era of dominance that may never be replicated. His ability to elevate his game in the most critical moments became the stuff of basketball folklore. Paired with five MVP awards in 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, and 1998, Jordan’s supremacy on the court was unrivaled. His combination of scoring (10 scoring titles), defense (Defensive Player of the Year and nine All-Defensive Teams), and leadership (six Finals MVPs) set the gold standard for generations of athletes to come.
Michael Jordan’s impact transcended the sport itself. He was not just a player; he was a global icon who inspired countless individuals to strive for greatness. His eleven combined championships and MVP awards represent an enduring legacy of excellence and an eternal mark on the history of basketball.
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 12 (6 NBA Championships + 6 MVP Awards)
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NBA Championships: 1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988
MVP Awards: 1971, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1980
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the towering figure of the NBA, won an incredible 12 combined championships and MVP awards which ranks second all-time. His remarkable career spanned two decades and was marked by unparalleled success and individual excellence as he was formerly the all-time leading scorer in NBA history and has won the most MVPs out of any player.
Abdul-Jabbar’s six NBA championships won in 1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988, exemplify his enduring dominance in the league. His unstoppable skyhook shot became an iconic symbol of his scoring prowess. Paired with an astonishing six MVP awards in 1971, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1977, and 1980, Abdul-Jabbar’s versatility and impact on both ends of the court were unparalleled. He remained a formidable force well into his 40s, a testament to his longevity and commitment to excellence.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s legacy extends beyond the hardwood; he is a symbol of sustained greatness and an inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide. His twelve combined championships and MVP awards solidify his place as one of the greatest basketball players of all time and an immortal figure in the annals of the NBA.
1. Bill Russell – 16 (11 NBA Championships + 5 MVP Awards)
NBA Championships: 1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969
MVP Awards: 1958, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1965
Bill Russell, the ultimate champion and winningest player of the NBA, stands as an unparalleled figure in the world of basketball, boasting an astounding combination of championships and MVP awards that remains unrivaled to this day.
Russell’s eleven NBA championships, earned in consecutive years from 1957 to 1969, define an era of dominance that may never be equaled. His imposing presence on the court, both as a shot-blocker and rebounder, was instrumental in the Boston Celtics’ historic run of titles. Paired with five MVP awards in 1958, 1961, 1962, 1963, and 1965, Russell’s defensive prowess and leadership set the gold standard for success in the league.
Bill Russell’s impact extended far beyond statistics and accolades. He was the epitome of a team player, with an unwavering commitment to winning. His sixteen combined championships and MVP awards solidify his place as not only one of the greatest basketball players in history but also an emblem of unparalleled excellence and the ultimate winner in the annals of the NBA.