Bulls legend Michael Jordan names the greatest shooter in NBA history

Michael Jordan legend of Chicago Bulls is widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history, and his basketball knowledge is second to none. Naturally, his opinions on the game carry significant weight. Over the years, the league has seen legendary shooters like Larry Bird, Reggie Miller, Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant, and Stephen Curry. However, when asked to name the best shooter he’s ever seen, Jordan had a surprising answer.

During a 2005 interview with Cigar Aficionado founder Marvin R. Shanken, Jordan was asked to name the best shooter he had ever witnessed. His response was unexpected, even for the most dedicated basketball fans.

“Best shooter? Oh, boy. That’s a great question. Pure shooter?” Jordan asked before considering his answer. Shanken followed up, asking, “Or clutch shooter? I have another one here—best clutch player. You can combine the two if you want.” Jordan then responded: “Did you ever watch the Big O [Oscar Robertson] play?“

When told that Robertson was an all-around player but not necessarily one of the best pure shooters, Jordan agreed. “He was an all-around player, but I wouldn’t say he was one of the best shooters. He was one of the best all-around players, in the same category as Magic Johnson, who could rebound, assist, and score.”

Head coach Brian Winters of the Vancouver Grizzlies looks on during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers

Then came Jordan’s pick for the greatest shooter: “Pure shooter, I would say Brian Winters, who played for the Milwaukee Bucks. He had the most beautiful stroke of all the people I can think of.” The choice may come as a surprise to many, but it highlights Jordan’s deep knowledge of the game and appreciation for fundamentals over mainstream recognition.

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Bucks legend Oscar Robertson selects his top five greatest players of all time, leaving Lebron out

Brian Winters’ NBA legacy

Brian Winters was a standout shooting guard in the NBA, best known for his time with the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1970s and early 1980s. Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1974, he was quickly traded to Milwaukee in the blockbuster deal that sent Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Los Angeles. In Milwaukee, Winters developed into an elite scorer and sharpshooter, earning two All-Star selections (1976, 1978) and becoming a key piece of the Bucks’ offense.

Over eight seasons with the Bucks, Winters averaged 16.2 points and 4.1 assists per game, emerging as one of the franchise’s premier scorers of that era. His smooth shooting stroke from mid-range and beyond made him a dangerous offensive weapon, helping keep Milwaukee competitive in the Eastern Conference following Abdul-Jabbar’s departure.

After retiring in 1983, Winters transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant and later as a head coach in the NBA, including a stint leading the expansion Vancouver Grizzlies in their inaugural season. His contributions to the Bucks were recognized when he was inducted into the franchise’s Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of Milwaukee’s greatest players and a respected figure in NBA history.