Let’s talk hoops and the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award, the ultimate badge of greatness in basketball. This topic, “The Top Ten Most NBA MVP Winners All Time,” shines a spotlight on the all-time best players who’ve snagged this award multiple times, proving they’re the cream of the crop. We’re talking legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who racked up six MVP awards, and modern titans like LeBron James and Nikola Jokić, who’ve owned the court with jaw-dropping plays.
These players didn’t just win they redefined the game with their scoring, passing, defense, and knack for delivering in crunch time. This isn’t just a boring list; it’s a deep dive into basketball history, unpacking the epic seasons, wild stats, and heated rivalries that made these stars household names. Whether you’re a hardcore NBA fan, a sports history nerd, or just curious about basketball’s biggest names, this topic’s got you covered with fun facts and stories that bring the game to life. Stick around to explore the NBA MVP legacy, discover who rules the record books, and see why the MVP race gets everyone hyped every season.
The Top Ten Most NBA MVP Winners All Time
10. Stephen Curry (2 MVPs)
Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ revolutionary point guard, won two NBA MVP awards in 2015 and 2016, transforming basketball with his unmatched shooting. His 2015-16 season made history as the first unanimous MVP, averaging 30.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.7 assists while sinking 402 three-pointers a record that redefined the game. Curry led the Warriors to a 73-win season, the best in NBA history, and powered four championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), earning a Finals MVP in 2022. With 10 All-Star nods and eight All-NBA selections, his impact goes beyond stats, inspiring a new era of perimeter play. Curry’s clutch performances and joyful style make him a fan favorite. For those exploring basketball’s evolution, Curry’s two MVPs showcase how a 6’3” sharpshooter became a giant among NBA MVP winners, leaving a legacy that resonates with fans of top players and basketball history.
9. Nikola Jokić (3 MVPs)
Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets’ masterful center, has claimed three MVP awards in 2021, 2022, and 2024, redefining the big man role. His rare mix of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking think 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9 assists per game sets him apart. In 2023-24, Jokić joined Oscar Robertson as one of only two players to record 2,000 points, 900 rebounds, and 700 assists in a season. Leading Denver to a 2023 championship, he proved his clutch factor. Jokić’s basketball IQ and unselfish play turn complex moves into highlight reels, earning six All-NBA selections and a Finals MVP. Still in his prime at 30, his legacy keeps growing. For fans of modern basketball legends, Jokić’s rise is a thrilling story of versatility and dominance, making him a must-know name in the NBA MVP race.
8. Magic Johnson (3 MVPs)
Magic Johnson, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Showtime maestro, secured three MVP awards in 1987, 1989, and 1990. Standing 6’9”, his point guard wizardry dishing no-look passes and igniting fast breaks changed the game. Johnson guided the Lakers to five NBA championships, earning three Finals MVPs with his electrifying play. His 1987 MVP season featured 23.9 points and 12.2 assists per game, showcasing his control of the court. With 12 All-Star appearances and nine All-NBA First Team honors, his resume dazzles. His rivalry with Larry Bird skyrocketed the NBA’s popularity in the 1980s, captivating fans globally. Johnson’s charisma and leadership made him a basketball icon. For those who love the flair of teamwork-driven play, Johnson’s story is a vibrant piece of basketball history, packed with excitement and legacy-defining moments.
7. Larry Bird (3 MVPs)
Larry Bird, the Boston Celtics’ sharpshooting forward, achieved a rare three-peat, winning MVP awards from 1984 to 1986. Known for his lethal jump shot and fierce competitiveness, Bird led the Celtics to three NBA championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. His 1986 MVP season was a masterclass: 25.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 6.8 assists, plus two Finals MVPs. Bird’s 12 All-Star nods and nine All-NBA First Team selections highlight his consistency. His legendary battles with Magic Johnson defined an era, drawing millions to the sport. Beyond scoring, Bird’s hustle and smarts made him a complete player. His later success as a coach and executive further proved his brilliance. For fans of clutch plays and historic rivalries, Bird’s legacy is a goldmine of NBA greatness that continues to inspire.
6. Moses Malone (3 MVPs)
Moses Malone, a dominant center, earned three MVP awards in 1979, 1982, and 1983, ruling the paint with his scoring and rebounding. With the Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers, Malone’s 1983 MVP season ended with a championship and Finals MVP, sweeping the Lakers. His knack for offensive rebounds leading the league six times turned missed shots into points. Malone’s groundbreaking leap from high school to the pros, starting in the ABA, paved the way for future stars. Averaging 20.6 points and 14.7 rebounds career-wide, he earned 12 All-Star selections and eight All-NBA honors. His relentless style and quiet leadership won fans’ hearts. A 2001 Hall of Fame inductee, Malone’s legacy endures. For those who value grit and dominance, Malone’s story is a cornerstone of basketball history, showcasing a true top player.
5. LeBron James (4 MVPs)
LeBron James, a global superstar, won four MVP awards in 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013, showcasing his unmatched versatility. Playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers, James has four NBA championships and four Finals MVPs. His 2012 season averaged 27.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, highlighting his all-around game. With 13 All-NBA First Team selections and the NBA’s all-time scoring record, his longevity is unreal. James’s ability to score, pass, and defend makes him a walking highlight. His 2016 Finals comeback cemented his clutch reputation. Still active, he continues to shape basketball. For fans tracking the evolution of basketball legends, LeBron’s career is a living testament to excellence, blending power, smarts, and heart in the MVP race.
4. Wilt Chamberlain (4 MVPs)
Wilt Chamberlain, a towering force, claimed four MVP awards in 1960, 1966, 1967, and 1968, rewriting basketball’s record books. With the Philadelphia Warriors, 76ers, and Los Angeles Lakers, Chamberlain’s 1962 season featured a 100-point game and a 50.4-point average records that still stand. He led the 76ers to a 1967 title and the Lakers to one in 1972, earning 14 All-Star selections and seven scoring titles. His rebounding, like 2,149 in a season, was staggering, forcing rule changes like lane widening. A 1978 Hall of Famer, Chamberlain’s larger-than-life presence matched his game. For fans of mind-blowing stats and old-school giants, Chamberlain’s legacy is a thrilling chapter in basketball history, showcasing a player who seemed unstoppable.
3. Michael Jordan (5 MVPs)
Michael Jordan, often hailed as the greatest ever, won five MVP awards in 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, and 1998, leading the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships. His 1988 season paired an MVP with Defensive Player of the Year, averaging 35 points. Jordan’s six Finals MVPs, ten scoring titles, and nine All-Defensive First Team honors show his two-way mastery. His clutch shots and soaring dunks made him a global icon, boosting the NBA’s reach. With 14 All-Star appearances, Jordan’s relentless drive set the bar. His Air Jordan brand remains a cultural juggernaut. For basketball fans, Jordan’s story is the ultimate, blending skill, charisma, and iconic moments that define NBA MVP winners and top players.
2. Bill Russell (5 MVPs)
Bill Russell, the Boston Celtics’ defensive cornerstone, won five MVP awards in 1958, 1961, 1962, 1963, and 1965, anchoring an unmatched 11 NBA championships. His rebounding 22.5 per game career average and shot-blocking redefined defense. Russell’s 1962 MVP season included 18.9 points and 23.6 rebounds, showcasing his impact. As the first Black head coach in major U.S. sports, he won two titles as player-coach. With 12 All-Star nods and 11 All-NBA selections, his legacy is towering. The NBA Finals MVP award bears his name. For fans of team-first greatness, Russell’s story is a lesson in leadership and sacrifice, proving MVPs can shine through defense and heart in basketball history.
1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (6 MVPs)
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, holds the record with six MVP awards in 1971, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1977, and 1980. His signature skyhook and defensive prowess led the Milwaukee Bucks to a 1971 title and the Los Angeles Lakers to five more. Averaging 24.6 points and 11.2 rebounds over 20 seasons, Kareem earned 19 All-Star selections, 15 All-NBA honors, and 11 All-Defensive nods. His 1971 MVP season featured 31.7 points and 16 rebounds per game. A 1995 Hall of Famer, his social justice work adds depth to his legacy. For fans of timeless excellence, Kareem’s career is a monumental chapter in the NBA MVP race, showcasing skill, grace, and impact among basketball legends.
