It’s one of those matchups every NBA fan wishes had happened: the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets">Houston Rockets</a> of Hakeem Olajuwon against the Chicago Bulls of Michael Jordan. Despite sharing the league stage for 14 seasons, the two dynasties never met in the NBA Finals — leaving generations of fans to wonder what might have been.



The former Houston center addressed that hypothetical during an appearance on FS1’s First Things First on Wednesday. Analyst Nick Wright asked Olajuwon whether he believed his Rockets could have beaten Jordan’s Bulls in the Finals — and the Hall of Famer didn’t hesitate to give his honest take.



“People ask me that question all the time. And the only thing we can refer back to is that we played in the regular season,” Olajuwon said. “We didn’t play in the playoffs, but in the regular season, I think Chicago had trouble playing against Houston. Facts are facts.”



“But we don’t know about the playoffs — things might change,” Olajuwon said. “I’m comfortable with my team. We would have done some damage.” The Rockets were a solid team and very physical; without a doubt, they probably could have reached a 7-series <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> finals.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="427526" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251024_BUS_514889_michael-jordan_80aaa521.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Michael Jordan looking on" class="wp-image-427526" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Jordan #23 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the game.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>When the Rockets and Bulls actually faced off</h2>



Drafted in the same year (1984), both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Jordan</a> and Olajuwon went on to become icons of their generation. Olajuwon captured his two NBA championships during Jordan’s first retirement from basketball in the mid-1990s. Still, the hypothetical Finals matchup remains one of the great “what ifs” in NBA history.


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The Rockets and Bulls squared off 23 times in the regular season, with Houston holding the upper hand. Chicago struggled to contain <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon">Olajuwon</a>’s dominance in the paint, as the Rockets won 13 of those matchups while the Bulls claimed 10.



Had the two met in the Finals and the Rockets prevailed, it would have underscored the enduring value of dominant big men in an era increasingly ruled by guards. Olajuwon’s brilliance challenged <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls">Chicago</a>’s supremacy, even if Jordan’s absence from the league during Houston’s championship years adds an asterisk to the debate.

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Rockets legend Hakeem Olajuwon makes a major statement on whether they would have beaten Michael Jordan’s Bulls - Bolavip US

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hakeem Olajuwon</a> cemented his status as an NBA legend by leading the Houston Rockets to two championships. Beyond his success with the team, he excelled as a well-rounded player, influencing every aspect of the game. Despite these accomplishments, he is frequently overlooked in the GOAT debate, which typically centers around Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Addressing this oversight, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kyrie-irving" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyrie Irving</a> recently weighed in on Olajuwon’s legacy.



“We’re not going to allow people to revise history: Hakeem Olajuwon…We’re not going to let people pretend like Hakeem was not that. Before there was a Tim Duncan, there was a Hakeem Olajuwon… I’m not comparing the two—I’m not. But I’m saying before there was Kobe, there was Mike. Before there was a Mike, there was Julius Erving. You guys gotta really just put it in perspective how I’m saying these things,” Kyrie Irving said on his Twitch stream.



Kyrie is not attempting to discredit any historic player in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. Instead, he wants to remind us of the foundation upon which the league was built, and Hakeem Olajuwon was a significant part of it. Therefore, leaving him out of the GOAT debate could be unfair. His ability to make a difference for the Houston Rockets impacted all areas of the game. He even won two Defensive Player of the Year awards while maintaining a high level of offensive contribution.



<h2>Michael Jordan delivers high praise on Hakeem Olajuwon’s all-around dominance</h2>



While <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jo</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rdan</a> dominated the 1990s with the Chicago Bulls, he encountered several formidable challengers. Among them was Hakeem Olajuwon, the star of the Houston Rockets. His imposing physique and versatile skill set caught the attention of the Bulls legend, who did not shy away from offering him high praise.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250727_BUS_448818_GettyImages-241817-1-1024x576_3e75aef4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets in action with the ball." class="wp-image-357041" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Hakeem Olajuwon playing for the Houston Rockets.</figcaption></figure>



“He was in the top 10 in five categories, steals, rebounds, blocked shots, scoring, and shooting percentage. To have a big guy of his size to be in the top 10 in steals, you would assume that he would be in blocks, which to me showed versatility and what type of guy he really was,” he said, via NBA 2K14.


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<h2>Hakeem Olajuwon makes a crystal-clear choice in the GOAT debate</h2>



In a 2015 interview with CNBC Worldwide Exchange, Hakeem Olajuwon was asked about the GOAT debate between LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Without hesitation, the Rockets legend delivered a resounding answer. “When people start comparing him (LeBron James) with Jordan, then that’s not a fair comparison. Jordan was a far more superior player in a very, very tough league, and very, very creative.”



Despite this, Hakeem spoke about LeBron James, making it clear that he does not seek to discredit what the Lakers veteran has achieved. A decade has elapsed since he made those statements, and much has evolved. James has extended his illustrious career, shattering numerous league records. However, the Rockets legend position likely remains unchanged, as he highlighted that the distinctions he drew went beyond mere statistics and numbers.

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Throughout NBA history, certain players have etched their names into the annals of the league. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/wilt-chamberlain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wilt Chamberlain</a> was among the first, capturing two championships and four MVP awards. Likewise, Michael Jordan ascended to legendary status with six championships, setting the standard for greatness. Despite their iconic stature, Hakeem Olajuwon made a surprising comparison in 2020 between a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clippers</a> player and these all-time greats.



“Look at his statistics. He’s (James Harden) a player to the level of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> and Wilt Chamberlain. It’s something unbelievable in this era. There’s no question about James’ ability as a champion. I think it’s just a matter of time. Any player you put with James Harden, it will work. Because James is such a complete player,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hakeem Olajuwon</a> said back in 2020, via SportsTalk 790.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a>, often the subject of bold comparisons among NBA fans, has undeniably proven himself one of the league’s most talented players. Over the course of 1,151 games, he has consistently averaged 24.2 points, along with 5.6 rebounds and 7.2 assists. His exceptional scoring ability made him the league’s leading scorer for three consecutive seasons, marking the pinnacle of his career.



Although Harden has yet to secure an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship, he went on to become a Houston Rockets legend. During his nine-year tenure with the franchise, he had impressive performances, averaging 29.6 points per game. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250722_BUS_445561_James-Harden-1-1024x559_f2b3b860.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="Clippers star James Harden" class="wp-image-404242" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24145012/James-Harden-1-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24145012/James-Harden-1-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24145012/James-Harden-1-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24145012/James-Harden-1-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24145012/James-Harden-1.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>James Harden #1 of the LA Clippers reacts during play against the San Antonio Spurs in the first half at Intuit Dome on April 08, 2025 in Inglewood, California.</figcaption></figure>



However, despite his stellar individual performances, team success at the championship level eluded him. The closest he has come to a championship was in the 2018 Conference Finals, where the Rockets were bested by the formidable Golden State Warriors.


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<h2>James Harden’s unexpected move helped Clippers land Brook Lopez and Bradley Beal</h2>



To enhance their roster’s competitiveness, the Los Angeles Clippers have added two seasoned NBA veterans: Brook Lopez and Bradley Beal. This move solidifies their position as one of the league’s oldest teams. Despite this age factor, enthusiasm is running high among fans, who view the Clippers as strong contenders in the short term. Notably, James Harden’s decision played a significant role in bringing these two players to Los Angeles.



In a strategic move, Clippers’ president of basketball operations, Lawrence Frank, announced that James Harden opted to decline his player option to renegotiate a lower contract. This decision facilitated the arrival of both Bradley Beal and Brook Lopez in Los Angeles. Harden’s initiative underscores his deep commitment to the team and his burning ambition to secure his first NBA championship, aiming to solidify his legacy before retirement.

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NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon compared Clippers’ veteran to Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain

As the NBA evolves, many former players emphasize that defensive skills now require more technique than physical strength, making the task even more complex. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> veteran Draymond Green has distinguished himself as a top defender for 13 years. This season, even at 35, he vied for the Defensive Player of the Year award and finished third. Known for his expertise, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/draymond-green" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Green</a> recently revealed his picks for the top five defenders of all time.



During his podcast, The Draymond Show, Green engaged with fans in a lively Q&amp;A session. When asked to name his top five defenders in NBA history, his response sparked considerable discussion. “My top five in no particular order is myself, Ben Wallace, Tony Allen, Tim Duncan and Hakeem Olajuwon,“ he expressed.



Despite the Warriors’ veteran showing deep respect for legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell, he left them off his list. He explained that he never saw them play. Relying only on statistics, he said, does not fully capture a player’s greatness. He added that watching someone play offers a better sense of their true impact.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tim-duncan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tim Duncan</a>’s selection sparked little debate among NBA fans. The San Antonio Spurs legend is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in league history. A two-time MVP and 15-time All-Defensive Team selection, Duncan built a legacy as one of the most fundamentally sound and dominant big men to ever play the game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250606_BUS_413107_GettyImages-1489011993-1-1024x576_4bb79cb2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Warriors star Draymond Green" class="wp-image-309942" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09180438/GettyImages-1489011993-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after a three point basket against the Los Angeles Lakers</figcaption></figure>



Ben Wallace’s case was very different. Many fans disagreed with his inclusion, as they mostly saw him as a physical enforcer. However, Wallace won four Defensive Player of the Year awards. That success placed him among the most dominant defenders of his era. Despite the controversy, he became a game-changer for the Detroit Pistons.


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hake</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">em Olajuwon</a>, like Duncan, drew little criticism. Fans remember ‘The Dream’ as a player ahead of his time, effortlessly blending size, skill, and finesse. He led the Houston Rockets to back-to-back NBA championships in 1993–94 and 1994–95, earning Finals MVP honors both years while showcasing one of the most refined post games the league has ever seen.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tony-allen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tony Allen</a> holds a special place in league history. Over 14 years, he played in 820 NBA games. He became a role model for modern defenders. Many players studied his defensive intensity and discipline. Even Kobe Bryant once called him the toughest defender he ever faced, during a BodyArmor press conference.

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Warriors star Draymond Green reveals his top 5 greatest defenders in NBA history - Bolavip US

For 19 seasons, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shaquille-oneal">Shaquille O’Neal</a> was one of the most dominant centers in the NBA. He played for six teams during his professional career, but his prime years came with the Los Angeles Lakers between the late 1990s and early 2000s. That experience gave him deep insight into the game—and into his toughest opponents. Among them, he named the most underrated.



“Underrated is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon">Hakeem Olajuwon</a>,” Shaq said on The Big Podcast in April 2025. “He don’t get the credit he should. You always talk about these great big men, and I love that my name is brought up… You gotta put him in there, he was an animal.”



Between O’Neal’s debut in 1992 and Olajuwon’s retirement at age 39 in 2002, the two shared a full decade in the league. That gave Shaquille plenty of opportunities to face the Houston Rockets legend. “He was the only guy that I really couldn’t check,” the three-time champion with the Lakers admitted. “I really couldn’t understand him. So, he was underrated because he didn’t get a lot of props.”



In a 2022 interview with The Ringer, Shaq also emphasized another side of Hakeem. “He was just a nice guy, and when I really respect you, I’m never going to talk trash to you or do anything,” the former center said. “But I tried talking to him and he didn’t respond, so that kind of let me know that he had me.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250528_BUS_406319_GettyImages-241817-1-1024x576_051a60b3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets in action with the ball." class="wp-image-357041" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Hakeem Olajuwon playing for the Houston Rockets.</figcaption></figure>



O’Neal then explained how Olajuwon differed from other stars in that regard: “I knew that if I said something to the Georgetown boys, they’d get pissed. I knew David Robinson would get all military on me. With Hakeem, I’d elbow him and he’d go, ‘Nice elbow, brotha.&apos;”


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<h2>How did Shaq fare against Olajuwon?</h2>



During the 10 years they overlapped in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a>, O’Neal and Olajuwon squared off 20 times in the regular season. In those matchups, Shaquille held the edge, with 14 wins and just six losses. But the postseason told a different story: they met eight times in the playoffs, with Olajuwon holding a 5–3 advantage.



Their most memorable clash came in 1995, when the Houston Rockets reached the NBA Finals for the second straight year and faced the Orlando Magic. Olajuwon led his team to another championship, sweeping Shaq’s team in four games.



<h2>O’Neal reflects on the 1995 NBA Finals</h2>



That 1994–95 season marked just the second time Shaq reached the postseason as a pro. And in that Finals series, he learned a valuable lesson from Olajuwon. “Hakeem was way better than me, but he never did to me in the regular season what he did in the Finals,” O’Neal said during an episode of The OG’s Podcast.



“So, I learned that when you get to that level, you’ve got to step it up a notch—I didn’t know that at the time,” reflected the four-time NBA champion. “So now, I’m saying to myself, ‘If I ever get back to the Finals again, I’ve got to dominate.’ Especially if I’m not shooting free throws well—I’ve got to have such a dominant performance that it won’t even matter.”


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets">Houston Rockets</a> legend Yao Ming, one of the most iconic international figures in NBA history, revolutionized the center position with a rare blend of size, skill, and grace. A Hall of Famer and global ambassador for the game, Yao left a lasting impact both on and off the court. Now, he’s revealed the player he considers the greatest of all time—and it’s none other than a fellow Rockets legend.



According to the official website of the Olympic Games, Yao has long idolized Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon, the Hall of Fame center who led the Rockets to two NBA titles in the 1990s. “His idol was Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon, the mega star center who played for… the Houston Rockets, the club Yao Ming would go on to play for. In fact, he had basically predicted his entire career,” reads the Olympics’ official tribute to Yao.



The admiration is well documented. Olajuwon wasn’t just an idol—he was a direct inspiration. When Yao made his NBA debut, it happened to coincide with a major moment in Rockets history. “I remember my first game for the Rockets was when we retired his [Olajuwon’s] jersey,” Yao told ABC News in a 2017 interview. “We watched it in the locker room, and I remember saying that was motivation to play hard.”



<h2>A journey that changed basketball</h2>



Born in Shanghai in 1980, Yao began his professional career with the Shanghai Sharks, quickly establishing himself as one of the brightest talents in Asian basketball. Standing at 7-foot-6 (2.29 meters), he combined size with a unique blend of touch, footwork, and basketball IQ. He led the Sharks to a Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) championship before drawing the attention of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> scouts worldwide.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250422_BUS_382347_GettyImages-241817-1-1024x576_eaaeceaa.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets in action with the ball." class="wp-image-357041" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16225100/GettyImages-241817-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Center Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets in action with the ball.</figcaption></figure>



In 2002, Yao made history as the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft, selected by the Houston Rockets. He became the first international player ever drafted first overall without prior college or professional experience in the U.S. From the start, Yao captivated fans with his polished post moves, soft shooting touch, and poise on the court. He quickly earned the respect of NBA peers, including Shaquille O’Neal, with whom he shared some of the most memorable battles of the early 2000s.


 

 

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Over the course of his eight-year NBA career, Yao was named to eight All-Star teams and averaged 19 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. But his legacy extends far beyond the box score. Yao served as a cultural bridge between China and the United States, drawing millions of new fans to the NBA and playing a pivotal role in globalizing the sport.



<h2>Yao’s final steps</h2>



Though his career was cut short by a series of foot and ankle injuries—forcing him into retirement in 2011 at age 30—his influence never faded. In 2016, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Today, he continues to shape the future of the sport as president of the Chinese Basketball Association.



Yao’s story remains a powerful testament to resilience, cultural impact, and the global power of basketball—and his reverence for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon">Hakeem Olajuwon</a> speaks to the lineage of greatness that defines the Rockets franchise.

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Houston Rockets legend Yao Ming names his greatest NBA player of all time - Bolavip US

When discussing NBA legends and historic rivalries, one of the most intense battles comes to mind—the duel between Houston Rockets icon Hakeem Olajuwon and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks">New York Knicks</a> great Patrick Ewing. The two Hall of Fame centers went head-to-head in some of the most physically demanding matchups in league history, and even decades later, their competitive fire seems to linger. Olajuwon recently stirred the conversation with comments that appeared to reignite the rivalry.



“The Dream” confidently asserted that he aged better as a player compared to Ewing. “The difference between Patrick and me is that he’s had serious injuries, and I’ve never had those,” Olajuwon said after signing with the Toronto Raptors in the same summer the Orlando Magic acquired Ewing. “My problems have been cosmetic.”



Both stars were widely expected to finish their careers with the franchises that defined them, but in a surprising turn, each was traded late in their storied careers. In 2000, Ewing was dealt to the Seattle SuperSonics, and the following year, Olajuwon was shipped to the Raptors.



The Olajuwon-Ewing rivalry took shape in the 1980s and 1990s, with both players leading their respective franchises—the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets">Houston Rockets</a> and the New York Knicks—to consistent playoff success. Their battles were often seen as a clash of styles: Olajuwon’s fluid footwork and agility versus Ewing’s physicality and elite mid-range shooting. As two of the league’s premier big men, their matchups were must-watch television, particularly in high-stakes regular-season and playoff encounters.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250317_BUS_357038_Patrick-Ewing-1-1024x576_d95af759.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-320797" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/24204320/Patrick-Ewing-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Center Patrick Ewing rests during the NBA game between the Orlando Magic and the Utah Jazz at the TD Waterhouse Centre on Dec. 19, 2001.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>1994 NBA finals showdown</h2>



The pinnacle of their rivalry came in the 1994 NBA Finals, when Olajuwon’s Rockets met Ewing’s Knicks in a grueling seven-game series. Olajuwon delivered an iconic performance, averaging 26.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 3.9 blocks per game, while Ewing countered with 18.9 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 4.3 blocks per contest.


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In Game 6, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon">Olajuwon</a> made one of the most memorable defensive plays in Finals history, blocking John Starks’ last-second three-pointer to force a decisive Game 7. The Rockets ultimately prevailed, securing Olajuwon’s first NBA championship and leaving Ewing just short of his elusive ring.



<h2>Regular-season and playoff duels</h2>



Throughout their careers, Olajuwon and Ewing clashed multiple times in both the regular season and postseason, with Olajuwon often holding the statistical advantage. Over their careers, Olajuwon averaged 21.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, 3.1 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 51.2% from the field.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-ewing">Ewing</a>, on the other hand, posted career averages of 21.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game with a 50.4% field goal percentage. While their numbers were close, Olajuwon had the edge defensively with superior shot-blocking, steals, and a more refined post game that made him nearly unguardable in the paint.



<h2>Legacy and impact</h2>



Both players left a lasting mark on the game, inspiring future generations of big men with their skill, leadership, and defensive dominance. While Olajuwon is widely regarded as the more complete player due to his two-way brilliance and postseason success, Ewing remains one of the greatest centers of all time, known for his resilience and ability to anchor the Knicks through one of the league’s most competitive eras. Their rivalry not only defined a generation of basketball but also showcased the importance of elite center play in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a>’s golden age of big men.

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Houston Rockets legend Hakeem Olajuwon makes bold statement about being better than Patrick Ewing - Bolavip US

For 17 years, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon">Hakeem Olajuwon</a> was a cornerstone of the Houston Rockets. A dominant force in the paint, the center led the team to two NBA championships in the 1990s—the only two titles in the franchise’s history. Following his retirement, he was asked to weigh in on the debate surrounding the greatest player of all time.



In a 2015 interview with CNBC, Olajuwon was asked about the GOAT debate, particularly those who place <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> at the top. Olajuwon responded firmly: “When people start comparing him with (Michael) Jordan, then that’s not a fair comparison. Jordan was a far more superior player in a very tough league, and he was very creative.”



However, the former center made sure to express his deep respect for James. “That’s not taking away anything from LeBron because he is a great player, but it is not a fair comparison because Jordan is a far superior player,” Hakeem clarified.



Olajuwon further elaborated on what made <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a> the greatest in his 1996 book Living the Dream. “If he were an animal in the jungle, Michael Jordan could lie out on the biggest rock and no one would disturb him, no one would attack him,” the Rockets icon wrote.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250306_BUS_349476_Olajuwon-Jordan-1024x576_45413570.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-349478" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05204729/Olajuwon-Jordan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Hakeem Olajuwon guarded by Michael Jordan and Luc Longley during a game between the Houston Rockets and the Chicago Bulls on January 3, 1996.</figcaption></figure>



“Most superstars, if they match up against each other, at the same position, neutralize each other. When you put together your game plan, you figure that unless someone has an outstanding night, this is a stand-off, and the game will be won by the other teammates,” the Olajuwon explained. “But Michael Jordan isn’t neutralized. He’s different. Michael Jordan dominates superstars.”


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<h2>Olajuwon praises LeBron James</h2>



Following a tough six-game loss in the 2011 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> Finals to the Dallas Mavericks, LeBron James sought to improve his game and mental toughness. That’s when he turned to Hakeem Olajuwon for guidance.



Reflecting on that time in a 2018 interview with the Sun Sentinel, Olajuwon said: “He was so determined. He was always saying, ‘I’m here.’ That pushes me. When somebody wants it so much and is so eager, it motivates me. I was very happy because I knew I could help him.” Hakeem’s mentorship proved invaluable, as LeBron James went on to lead the Miami Heat to back-to-back championships in the following seasons.



<h2>What did Jordan think about Olajuwon?</h2>



Michael Jordan has also praised Hakeem Olajuwon’s skills and versatility on the court. In a 2013 interview with NBA 2K, MJ was asked to name his ideal starting five, which included himself, Magic Johnson, James Worthy, Scottie Pippen, and Olajuwon. “I got no chance of losing. None at all,” the Chicago Bulls legend said.



“Olajuwon—he was in the top 10 in five categories: steals, rebounds, blocks, scoring, and shooting percentage,” Jordan remarked. “You know, to have a big guy this size be in the top 10 in steals, now you can assume that he would be in blocks, which to me shows the versatility of what type of guy he really was.”



<h2>Olajuwon’s NBA career</h2>



Born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1963, Hakeem Olajuwon entered the NBA with star potential. Selected by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets">Houston Rockets</a> as the first overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft, he was chosen ahead of other future legends such as Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton. Hakeem quickly proved his worth, earning a spot in the All-Star Game during his rookie season, an honor he would achieve 12 times throughout his career.



During his 17 seasons with the Rockets, Olajuwon became arguably the most significant player in the franchise’s history. He led the team to its only two championships, in 1994 and 1995, winning Finals MVP honors both times. He also earned the league’s MVP award in 1994.



A six-time All-NBA First Team selection, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, two-time rebounding leader, and three-time blocks leader, Olajuwon’s remarkable achievements earned him a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame. He was also named to the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams, and the Houston Rockets honored his legacy by retiring his No. 34 jersey. Additionally, Olajuwon won a gold medal with Team USA at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

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Houston Rockets legend Hakeem Olajuwon names the greatest NBA player of all time - Bolavip US

On Tuesday night, the Phoenix Suns fell 119-112 to the Memphis Grizzlies at Footprint Center. However, for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a>, it was a memorable evening: with his 34-point performance, he became the eighth player in NBA history to eclipse the 30,000-point mark. In the wake of this achievement, Houston Rockets legend Hakeem Olajuwon took the opportunity to highlight the qualities that make KD one of the game’s most special talents.



“First of all, you have to look at the physique,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/hakeem-olajuwon">Olajuwon</a> explained in an interview with AZCentral. “It’s light. A guy that size and the ball handling skills, he has that ball handling skills to go with the length and with the fundamentals.”



After touching on Durant’s physical traits, Hakeem shifted focus to the forward’s immense talent. “He has fundamentals where he can go right, he can go left. He can get you off balance, he can drive, he can shoot,” he said. “When you have a scorer like that, he’s capable of whatever the opponent gives him. He’s getting what he wants anytime he wants it.”



Elaborating on the diverse arsenal of moves Kevin has at his disposal, Olajuwon continued: “You have to respect every move. If he’s going right, he can cross you over. When he’s coming down, he just pulls up. He catches you on the ground. You can’t jump at that point.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250212_BUS_335215_Olajuwon-1024x576_efedd81f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-335233" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12180132/Olajuwon.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Center Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets looks on during a game against the Orlando Magic.</figcaption></figure>



Finally, the Rockets icon compared Durant to other players in the league, emphasizing how effortless the game seems for him. “Fundamentals. The game comes to him so easily. You see some guys struggling for points. He can get a bucket anytime he wants to,” Olajuwon said. “He can take advantage of almost whatever is available to him. He’s a complete player … He can play as long as he wants to play.”


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<h2>Olajuwon knows what he’s talking about</h2>



To hear such high praise from a legend of Olajuwon’s caliber only highlights the immense respect Kevin Durant commands. Hakeem was one of the league’s brightest stars for nearly two decades. A first overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft—over other future legends like Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley—the Nigerian center spent the majority of his career with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets">Rockets</a>.



During his tenure in Houston, he led the team to back-to-back NBA titles in 1994 and 1995, earning Finals MVP honors both years. He was also named league MVP in 1993-94, a 12-time All-Star, and a two-time Defensive Player of the Year. Olajuwon’s remarkable impact on the game earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, and the Rockets retired his No. 34 jersey in tribute to his legacy.



<h2>Who can Kevin Durant catch up to next?</h2>



Having surpassed 30,000 career points, Kevin Durant now finds himself in elite company among the greatest players in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history. With 30,008 points, the Phoenix Suns forward ranks eighth on the all-time scoring list, with his closest competitor being the legendary Wilt Chamberlain, who sits at 31,419 points. Although Chamberlain’s mark is formidable, Durant has a realistic chance of surpassing it in the near future.



Next in line is Dirk Nowitzki, who has 31,560 career points, and ahead of them in the top five are Michael Jordan (32,292), Kobe Bryant (33,643), Karl Malone (36,928), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,387), and LeBron James (41,623).

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Rockets icon Hakeem Olajuwon explains what makes Kevin Durant unique among NBA stars - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Sixers-star-Joel-Embiid-addresses-his-chances-of-winning-MVP-20230308-0039.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joel Embiid </a>didn’t even start playing basketball until he was already a teenager, yet <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Shaq-explains-why-Clippers-have-no-chance-of-winning-the-NBA-championship-20230301-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> scouts fell in love with him in no time. Fast forward to today, and he’s already one of the best players in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Joel-Embiid-hits-three-records-in-one-night-for-the-76ers-20221211-0047.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers’ </a>history.
Embiid’s God-given talents are just remarkable. He’s savvy and understands the flow of the game, and how to make the most of his physical edge and skills to get an advantage over any defense.
That’s why NBA insider Bill Simmons went as far as to compare him with former legends of the game, stating that he’s already a better offensive player than the great <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Shaq-compares-Nikola-Jokic-to-an-NBA-legend-20221221-0049.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shaquille O’Neal</a> ever was.
<h2>Bill Simmons Says Embiid Is A Better Offensive Player Than Shaquille O’Neal</h2>
“To me, Embiid has reached this point where his f***ing offensive toolbox that he has now, his face-up stuff, his ability to overpower people,” Simmons said on his podcast.“I was thinking about watching late 80s (Patrick) Ewing when he really had his knees. He was just this awesome, could face up, could hit long shots, could hit the little jump hook, and he had this whole package, it’s like, ‘Wow, Ewing, he’s really got it together.’ To me, Embiid is just offensively better than Ewing was, and Ewing was one of the 40 best players of all time.”
“I’m not ready to go there with Hakeem (Olajuwon), but I think he’s a better offensive player than David Robinson was. I think he had more stuff to his game than Shaq ever did. Shaq was a little more overpowering, but Embiid brings more to the table,” Simmons added.
 
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He has a valid point in terms of Embiid being a better shooter, but Shaq was more physically dominant. Also, we already know that Simmons hates everything slightly related to the Lakers, so we have to take his words with a grain of salt.

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Bill Simmons shares the boldest take about Joel Embiid - Bolavip US

It didn’t take long before everybody realized that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/giannis-antetokounmpo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> was special. He continued to work on his craft year after year, improving <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-players-with-the-most-scoring-titles-20210223-0001.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">as a scorer</a> and as a defender, and became one of the best two-way players in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA.</a>
Even so, perhaps people don’t seem to realize that what Giannis has done in the past three years alone is enough to guarantee him not only a spot in the Hall of Famebut perhaps in the list of the top 10 best players of all time.
That may sound like a bit of a reach right now but that’s mostly because he doesn’t get the credit he’s due. If you were to look at his accolades, there aren’t many things you could say to demeanor his legacy, especially after leading the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/milwaukee-bucks-t100207" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Milwaukee Bucks</a> to their second championship in franchise history.
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<h2>Giannis Antetokounmpo, Michael Jordan, And Hakeem Olajuwon: Only Players With MVP, DPOY, And Finals MVP</h2>
After being named Finals MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo has joined perhaps the most elite group of two-way players in NBA history, as he’s now one of just three players to ever win Finals MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP.
Kevin Garnett and David Robinson complete the list of players who won both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year but – even though they were both champions – they were never able to completethis trifecta.
<h2>Michael Jordan</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210721_BUS_173099_michael_jordan_1.jpg_22993414_718077db.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Michael Jordan. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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MVP: 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998 DPOY: 1988 Finals MVP: 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998
It’s not surprising to see perhaps the greatest player of all time make our list. Michael Jordan is one of just 7 backcourt players to win Defensive Player of the Year and he did it all while being the league’s Most Valuable Player as well.
Jordan would go on to win 4 more MVPs and was named Finals MVP in every single one of the times he made it to basketball’s biggest stage. He’s the greatest Finals performer of all time as he didn’t even play in a Game 7.

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<h2>Hakeem Olajuwon</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210721_BUS_173099_hakeem_olajuwon.jpg_22993414_94ff0b37.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Hakeem Olajuwon. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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MVP: 1994 DPOY: 1993, 1994 Finals MVP: 1994, 1995
Hakeem Olajuwon made sure that no one else ate while Michael Jordan was out of the league. He made the most of the chance to dominate without the best player in the picture and had one of the greatest seasons in NBA history in 1994.
Olajuwon is the only player to win MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP all in the same year, a feature Giannis could’ve matched last season. For now, it seems unlikely that another player will ever accomplish such an incredible thing.

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<h2>Giannis Antetokounmpo</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210721_BUS_173099_giannis_antetokounmpo_1.jpg_22993414_75da60ab.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Giannis Antetokounmpo. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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MVP: 2019, 2020 DPOY: 2020 Finals MVP: 2021
And, as you may know by now, Giannis Antetokounmpo is the latest member of this unique club. He won back-to-back MVPs in 2019 and 2020, was Defensive Player of the Year as well in 2020but he and his team fell short in the playoffs both times.

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Now, the Greek Freak has proven again to be one of the most unique talents in NBA history, and perhaps the most amazing thing about his playoff run is the fact that he hyperextended his knee less than two weeks before the NBA Finals, yet he came back to drop multiple 40-point games.

Giannis Antetokounmpo joins Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon in unique feature

Giannis Antetokounmpo joins Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon in unique feature - Bolavip US

For years, people have debated whether <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/lebron--james-t27090" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LeBron James</a> is a better player than <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/michael-jordan-t85627" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Jordan</a> or if they could have dominated in another era of the <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA </a>the same way they’ve done it in their respective times.
Most young fans believe that James is better, more complete, and more athletic than Jordan. Old-school fans, however,think that Jordan’s competitiveness, toughness, and record in the NBA Finals areenough to settle the debate.
Well, that’s also the case if you were to ask Houston Rockets legend Hakeem Olajuwon, who recently claimed that Jordan is a ‘far superior’ player to LeBron, although you shouldn’t even try to compare them.
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<h2>Hakeem Olajuwon Says You Can’t Compare Michael Jordan And LeBron James</h2>
(Transcript via FanSided):
“When people start comparing him with Jordan, then that’s not a fair comparison. Jordan was a far more superior player in a very tough league, and he was very creative. That’s not taking away anything from LeBron because he is a great player, but it is not a fair comparison because Jordan is a far superior player.”

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“People love to talk about this. For sure LeBron is the greatest human to play basketball. That’s not even a question, but it’s not even fair to Michael Jordan to say that. LeBron is years later and the game has evolved. And every athlete is pretty much better than the athletes were 30 years ago. If you put MJ in the league now, that would be an interesting discussion but if you just want to say who is the best human to ever play basketball, I think it’s pretty obvious.”
This doesn’tstrike as a surprise coming from ‘The Dream’, the only star that could win an NBA Championship when Michael Jordan was in his prime. Then again, he did it when he retired for the first time, so it’s not like he beat His Airness en route to a ring.
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Even so, arguing about who the best player is could sound kind of futile right now. Michael Jordan is an all-time great and he gave the game everything he got and the same can be said of LeBron James.

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Hakeem Olajuwon explains why Michael Jordan is 'far superior' to LeBron James

Hakeem Olajuwon explains why Michael Jordan is 'far superior' to LeBron James - Bolavip US

The current <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> has a lot of players that are especialis in one phacet of the game. Some are great scorers, others are great passers and others do a terrific job on the defensive end of the ball.
Over the years, we have seen players with enough talent to be good at almost every aspect of the game. Even though is rare to see them now, there are some ballers that really put up a show whenever they stepped on the court.
Versatility is something we don’t see that often in <a href="http://nba.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> players, as most of them excel at one aspect of the game and are just above average in the others. That’s why not many players have been able to record a quadruple-double in the NBA.

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You must be an elite defender and playmaker to achieve such an impressive stat line. You also need your teammates to follow in line and, why not? even some luck. That’s why there have only been 5 quadruple-doubles in NBA history.
Draymond Green was pretty close to entering that list in 2017, as he logged 12 rebounds, 10 assists, and 10 steals. Somehow, he failed to score 10 points to join that exclusive quadruple-double club.
The quadruple-double is so rare that, even with the faster pace, the more skilled players, and the way the game is played right now, we haven’t seen one since 1994. In the following paragraphs, we’re going to tell you everything there is to know about every quadruple-double in NBA history.
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Una publicación compartida de <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hoophall/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color:#c9c8cd;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;line-height:17px" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Basketball HOF</a> (@hoophall) el 21 Ene, 2020 a las 1:55 PST
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<h2>What Is A Quadruple-Double?</h2>
Just like a double-double or a triple-double, a quadruple-double happens when a basketball player records double digits in 4 major statistical categories (points, rebounds, assists, steals, and/or blocks).
A player must have 10+ on 4 of those 5 categories to record a quadruple-double, which is extremely difficult considering how tough it is to pile up 10+ blocks (has happened just 159 times) or 10+ steals (has happened just 24 times).

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<h2>Every Quadruple-Double In NBA History</h2>
<h2>5. Nate Thurmond – October 18,1974</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img alt="" data-height="333" data-size="w:600,h:333" data-width="600" hspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20200731_BUS_163398_nate_thurmond_bulls.jpg_1030179834_a2b2bd30.webp&amp;width=500&amp;height=310" title="" vspace="5"></figure><figcaption> Thurmond played for the Warriors, Bulls, and Cavaliers. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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Stats:22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, 12 blocks Nate Thurmond was the first player to ever record a quadruple-double in the NBA. More impressively, it happened on the very first game of the 1974-75 regular season, when his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/chicago%C2%A0bulls-t101422" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chicago Bulls</a> faced the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/atlanta%C2%A0hawks-t101420" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Atlanta Hawks</a>.
Thurmond was known for his ability to dominate both sides of the glass and his defensive expertise. He retired with averages of 15.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, although the league didn’t keep track of blocks until 1974, his 11th season in the NBA.
<h2>4.Alvin Robertson – February18,1986</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img alt="" data-height="333" data-size="w:600,h:333" data-width="600" hspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20200731_BUS_163398_alvin_robertson.jpg_1030179834_ce87cd9c.webp&amp;width=500&amp;height=310" title="" vspace="5"></figure><figcaption> Robertson led the NBA in steals 3 times. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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Stats:20 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, 10 steals <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba/The-25-NBA-teams-with-most-fans-20200423-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Younger fans</a> may not know him butAlvin Robertson is one of the most underrated defenders of all time and it’s not even close. He was a hound in the backcourt that could pile up steals at a high pace. He could pick your pocket in a heartbeat and was a huge menace in passing lanes as well.
Robertson was at his peak when his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/san-antonio-spurs-t100707" target="_blank" rel="noopener">San Antonio Spurs</a> faced off vs. the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/phoenix-suns-t94622" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Phoenix Suns</a>. He logged the second quadruple-double in NBA history after piling up 10 steals to lead his team to a 120-114 triumph.
<h2>3. Hakeem Olajuwon – March 3,1990</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img alt="" data-height="333" data-size="w:600,h:333" data-width="600" hspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20200731_BUS_163398_hakeem_olajuwon_rockets.jpg_1030179834_dc196eda.webp&amp;width=500&amp;height=310" title="" vspace="5"></figure><figcaption> Olajuwon led the Rockets to back-to-back rings in 1994 &amp; 1995. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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Stats:29 points, 18 rebounds, 10 assists, 11 blocks Hakeem Olajuwon is perhaps<a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba/The-15-greatest-NBA-players-of-all-time-20200329-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> the most talented</a> two-way big man of all time. His ability to score in the post was only topped by his unprecedented skills as a rim protector. He still holds the record for most blocks in NBA history with 3,830.
The Dream was at his best when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Houston Rockets</a> beat the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golden-state-warriors-t101550" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> 129-109. He dominated both sides of the glass with ease and recorded 11 blocked shots, one shy of his career-high.
<h2>2.Hakeem Olajuwon –March29,1990</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img alt="" data-height="333" data-size="w:600,h:333" data-width="600" hspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20200731_BUS_163398_hakeem_olajuwon.jpg_1030179834_e08faa5d.webp&amp;width=500&amp;height=310" title="" vspace="5"></figure><figcaption> Olajuwon led the NBA in rebounds twice. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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Stats:18 points, 16 rebounds, 10 assists, 11 blocks If having one quadruple-double wasn’t legendary enough, Hakeem Olajuwon became the first player to do it more than once. More impressively, he had both quadruple-doubles over a three-week span.
This time, the Milwaukee Bucks (and, ironically, Alvin Robertson) were The Dream’s victims. We should really praise Hakeem more, as he’s the only player to ever be named MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and win the Finals MVP all in one season.
<h2>1.David Robinson, February 17,1994</h2>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img alt="" data-height="333" data-size="w:600,h:333" data-width="600" hspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20200731_BUS_163398_david_robinson.jpg_1030179834_c87a1cab.webp&amp;width=500&amp;height=310" title="" vspace="5"></figure><figcaption> People called Robinson ‘The Admiral’ because of his past with the Navy. (Getty) </figcaption></figure>
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Stats:34 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, 10 blocks If recording a quadruple-double wasn’t difficult enough, David Robinson became the first player to ever top the 30-point plateau while also logging 10+ in 3 other categories. He did that on a Spurs win vs. the Detroit Pistons.
Robinson was stronger, bigger, more athletic than most players in the league during his prime and his skill set was in a full display that night. He’s one of the few players to ever win the MVP, DPOY, Rookie of the Year, and also win an NBA Championship.
This is something incredibly hard to achieve. NBA players are alreadt elite athletes that can do a lot of things for their teams but posting a quadruple-double goes to the next level. These men were the best of the best and they left a big mark on the game.

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Every quadruple-double in NBA history

Every quadruple-double in NBA history - Bolavip US

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