Former Kobe Bryant teammate names his pick for the greatest point guard of all time

Throughout NBA history, only a select few have truly defined their eras. Yet ranking the greatest by position invites even deeper discussion. The point guard position, in particular, features legendary names such as Stephen Curry, Magic Johnson, and Oscar Robertson. Still, a former teammate of Kobe Bryant recently offered an unexpected perspective on the debate.

During an episode of the Club 520 podcast, former Lakers guard Gary Payton reflected on his NBA career and revealed his pick for the greatest point guard of all time: “John Stockton, by far. He was just a little more crafty; everybody thought he was dirty, but we were just s*****d. We didn’t know how to play. It took me six years to figure him out… I really love playing against players like that. Because it got me more of the IQ about the game.”

While John Stockton remains a reference for many, he rarely comes up in debates about the greatest point guards ever. That is mostly because Magic Johnson dominated the court and transformed the position along his career. Because of that, most people expect a different name in that conversation. Still, Stockton left a lasting impact that many tend to overlook.

Throughout his career, the Utah Jazz legend played 1,504 games. He averaged 13.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game. He also holds the NBA records for most assists and steals. But his influence went far beyond the numbers. He controlled the pace and improved his team every night. Even so, Stockton never won an NBA championship. And that is why many do not include him among the top players at his position.

Utah Jazz legend John Stockton

Ex-NBA player Steve Kerr breaks down John Stockton’s playstyle

Steve Kerr appeared in 910 NBA games, with the bulk of his career unfolding during the 1990s. Throughout that time, he often went head-to-head with John Stockton. While some former players have labeled Stockton a dirty player, suggesting he had a knack for delivering elbows without drawing fouls, Kerr holds a different opinion.

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NBA legend Gary Payton explains why 1996 Team USA was better than Michael Jordan’s Dream Team

In a 1997 interview with the Chicago Tribune, he offered a thoughtful perspective. “I’ve never felt John was dirty. I’ve always felt he was extremely tricky and crafty…If you turn your head, he’s back-cutting for a layup, if you lose your balance a little, he’s going to push off you to get to the basket…He’s as smart a player as there is and awfully talented as well because he’s so good with the ball and is a great shooter.“