10 Greatest Philadelphia 76ers Players Of All Time

Years In Philadelphia: 11 (1977-1987)

Philadelphia: 22.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Career: 22.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Honors: NBA Champion (1983), MVP (1981), 11x All-Star (1977-1987), 5x All-NBA First Team Selection (1978, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983), 2x All-NBA Second Team Selection (1977, 1984), 2x All-Star Game MVP (1977, 1983)

At the pinnacle of the greatest Philadelphia 76ers players of all time stands Julius Erving, known affectionately as "Dr. J." Erving's impact on the franchise during his time with the team from 1977 to 1987 transcended the basketball court, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history even if he started his career with the ABA until the 1976-77 campaign.

Dr. J's dynamic and acrobatic style of play brought a level of excitement and artistry to the unparalleled game. His aerial maneuvers, thunderous dunks, and graceful athleticism made him a pioneer in the evolution of the sport. Beyond the sheer beauty, he brought to the game, the 1982-83 season marked the pinnacle of Dr. J's career as he helped lead the Sixers to an NBA championship alongside Finals MVP Moses Malone.

His leadership, versatility, and ability to perform in clutch moments endeared him to fans and solidified his place as the face of the franchise. The number one ranking for Dr. J acknowledges not just his statistical excellence as an NBA champion and 11-time All-Star over 11 seasons, but the transformative impact he had on the Philadelphia 76ers and the sport of basketball as a whole.

2. Allen Iverson

Years In Philadelphia: 12 (1997-2007, 2010)

Philadelphia: 27.6 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.1 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Career: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Honors: MVP (2001), 9x All-Star (2000-2007, 2010), 3x All-NBA First Team Selection (1999, 2001, 2005), 3x All-NBA Second Team Selection (2000, 2002, 2003), All-NBA Third Team Selection (2006), 4x Scoring Champion (1999, 2001, 2002, 2005), 3x Steals Champion (2001-2003), 2x All-Star Game MVP (2001, 2005), Rookie of the Year (1997), All-Rookie Team Selection (1997)

Allen Iverson, the fearless and iconic point guard known as "The Answer," secures the second spot among the greatest Philadelphia 76ers players of all time. Iverson's impact on the franchise, both on and off the court, is immeasurable, making him a cultural and basketball icon.

Iverson's time with the Sixers from 1997 to 2007 was defined by his electrifying style of play, dazzling crossovers, and an uncanny ability to score against all odds. Standing at just 6 feet tall, Iverson's resilience and tenacity made him a fan favorite. The 2000-01 season stands out as a defining moment in his career when he led the Sixers to the NBA Finals and earned the league MVP award.

Beyond his scoring prowess (four scoring titles), Iverson's impact on the game was symbolic of a new era in the NBA. His influence transcended basketball, as he became a cultural icon and a symbol of individuality. Iverson's fearlessness on the court, coupled with his unapologetic authenticity, resonated with fans worldwide.

3. Wilt Chamberlain

Years In Philadelphia: 4 (1965-1968)

Philadelphia: 27.6 PPG, 23.9 RPG, 6.8 APG

Career: 30.1 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG

Honors: NBA Championship (1967), 3x MVP (1966, 1967, 1968), 4x All-Star (1965-1968), 3x All-NBA First Team Selection (1966-1968), All-NBA Second Team Selection (1965), Scoring Champion (1966), Assist Champion (1968), 3x Rebounds Champion (1966-1968)

Wilt Chamberlain, the most dominant player of all time besides Shaquille O’Neal, claims the third spot among the greatest Philadelphia 76ers players of all time. During his four-year tenure with the 76ers, Chamberlain's dominance was staggering. He averaged a ridiculous double-double during this period and even led the league in assists as a center who was also a dominant scorer.

Chamberlain’s greatest season with the 76ers came in 1966-67 when he averaged 24.1 points and 24.2 rebounds per game in the regular season and then 21.7 points and 29.1 rebounds per game in the playoffs. In the Finals, the dominant center added 17.7 points, 28.5 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. Based on these numbers alone, we will never see another Wilt Chamberlain again. 

While Wilt Chamberlain's time with the Sixers was relatively short-lived compared to his illustrious career, his legacy as one of the most dominant and iconic players in NBA history remains because his stint with the Philadelphia/San Francisco Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers only make his resume look more impressive. 

4. Moses Malone

Years In Philadelphia: 5 (1983-1986, 1994)

Philadelphia: 21.0 PPG, 12.0 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Career: 20.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Honors: NBA Champion (1983), Finals MVP (1983), MVP (1983), 4x All-Star (1983-1986), 2x All-NBA First Team Selection (1983, 1985), All-NBA Second Team Selection (1984), All-NBA Defensive First Team Selection (1983), 3x Rebounds Champion (1983-1985)

Moses Malone, a dominant force in the paint and a key architect of the Philadelphia 76ers' championship success, secures the fourth spot among the greatest players in franchise history. Malone's arrival in Philadelphia in 1983 marked a turning point for the team, and his impact was felt immediately.

Malone's relentless work ethic and unmatched rebounding ability earned him the nickname "Chairman of the Boards." His tenure with the Sixers was highlighted by the 1982-83 season, where he played a pivotal role in leading the team to an NBA championship. Malone's dominance in the postseason earned him both the NBA MVP and NBA Finals MVP awards, a testament to his unparalleled contributions.

The synergy between Moses Malone, Julius Erving, and the rest of the Sixers' roster during the championship run is etched in NBA history. In the ‘83 Finals, Malone posted 25.8 points and 18.0 rebounds in a sweep against the Los Angeles Lakers. Malone's ability to control the paint, score with efficiency, and instill a winning mentality in the team solidified his legacy as one of the greatest centers to ever play the game.

5. Joel Embiid

Years In Philadelphia: 10 (2015-2024)

Philadelphia: 27.7 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.7 BPG

Career: 27.7 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.7 BPG

Honors: MVP (2022-23), 6x All-Star (2018-2020, 2022, 2023), All-NBA First Team Selection (2023), 4x All-NBA Second Team Selection (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022), 3x All-Defensive Second Team Selection (2018, 2019, 2021), 2x Scoring Champion (2022, 2023), All-Rookie Team Selection (2017)

Joel Embiid commands the fifth spot among the greatest Philadelphia 76ers players of all time. Embiid's impact on the team since his arrival in 2014-15 as a rookie, especially in recent years, has been nothing short of transformative. Standing at 7 feet tall, he possesses a refined offensive game with a diverse scoring repertoire, including a soft shooting touch and a powerful inside presence. Defensively, Embiid is a formidable rim protector and an imposing force in the paint, earning three NBA All-Defensive Team selections.

While his career is still unfolding, Joel Embiid's impact on the Sixers, both in terms of individual brilliance and team success, has earned him a place among the all-time greats already. The current reigning MVP of the league missed the first two seasons of his career through injury but has since developed into a two-time scoring champion and the likely winner of the 2023-24 MVP award as well. At 29 years old and with seven seasons under his belt excluding his two missed campaigns, there is more to come from the native Cameroonian.

6. Charles Barkley

Years In Philadelphia: 8 (1985-1992)

Philadelphia: 23.3 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Career: 22.1 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Honors: 6x All-Star (1987-1992), 4x All-NBA First Team Selection (1988, 1989, 1990, 1991), 3x All-NBA Second Team Selection (1986, 1987, 1992), Rebounds Champion (1987), All-Star Game MVP (1991), All-Rookie Team Selection (1985)

Charles Barkley’s time with the Sixers from 1985 to 1992 was marked by his unique combination of power, athleticism, and charisma, making him one of the most beloved figures in franchise history. Nicknamed "The Round Mound of Rebound," Barkley was an absolute force on the court and there was often no answer for him and that became prevalent during his rookie campaign (14.0 points and 8.6 rebounds).

His rebounding ability, despite being undersized for his position, was legendary, earning him six All-Star selections with the franchise that drafted him No. 5 overall in the 1984 Draft. The 1986-87 season stands out as one of Barkley's most remarkable campaigns, where he averaged a double-double with 23.0 points and league-leading 14.6 rebounds per game.

His dynamic performances led the Sixers to the Eastern Conference Finals that year. Beyond statistics, Barkley's infectious personality and outspoken nature endeared him to fans and teammates alike. While Barkley didn't secure a championship during his time in Philadelphia (or in his career), his impact on the franchise remains undeniable. His departure following the 1992 season marked the end of an era, but Barkley's legacy as one of the most dominant and entertaining players in Sixers' history lives on.

7. Hal Greer

Years In Syracuse/Philadelphia: 15 (1959-1973)

Syracuse/Philadelphia: 19.2 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 4.0 APG

Career: 19.2 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 4.0 APG

Honors: NBA Champion (1967), 10x All-Star (1961-1970), 7x All-NBA Second Team Selection (1963-1969), All-Star Game MVP (1968)

A Hall of Fame scoring maestro and a cornerstone of the Philadelphia 76ers' success, Hal Greer claims the seventh spot among the greatest players in franchise history. Greer's illustrious career with the Sixers spanned from 1959 to 1973, and his impact on the team was nothing short of extraordinary.

Known for his smooth jump shot, clutch performances, and tenacious defense, Greer was the quintessential two-way player. A 10-time NBA All-Star, he consistently ranked among the league's top scorers and played a pivotal role in the team's success during the 1960s. Greer's partnership with Wilt Chamberlain, particularly during the 1966-1967 season (27.7 PPG in the playoffs), led the Sixers to their first NBA championship.

Greer's scoring ability was evident in his impressive career average of 19.2 points per game, making him the franchise's all-time leading scorer (21,586 total points). His impact extended beyond individual statistics; Greer's leadership and resilience were crucial in navigating the challenges of an evolving league at the time.

8. Billy Cunningham

Years In Philadelphia: 9 (1966-1972, 1975-1976)

Philadelphia: 20.8 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Career: 20.8 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Honors: NBA Champion (1967), 4x All-Star (1969-1972), 3x All-NBA First Team Selection (1969-1971), All-NBA Second Team Selection (1972), All-Rookie Team Selection (1966)

Billy Cunningham, "The Kangaroo Kid," as he was affectionately known, left an indelible mark on the franchise during his playing days from 1966 to 1972 especially. Cunningham's impact was felt on both ends of the court, showcasing a rare combination of scoring finesse, rebounding tenacity, and defensive prowess. A four-time NBA All-Star, Cunningham played a pivotal role in the Sixers' success during the late 1960s. His ability to score in various ways, from mid-range jumpers to powerful drives to the basket, made him a matchup nightmare for opponents.

The 1966-1967 season stands out as one of Cunningham's most memorable campaigns, culminating in an NBA championship alongside Wilt Chamberlain. A key contributor to the team's success, he averaged a double-double with 18.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Cunningham's leadership and on-court intensity epitomized the spirit of the Sixers during that era. After his playing career, Cunningham transitioned into coaching, guiding the Sixers to an NBA championship in 1983.

9. Dolph Schayes

Years In Syracuse/Philadelphia: 15 (1950-1964)

Syracuse/Philadelphia: 18.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 3.1 APG

Career: 18.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 3.1 APG

Honors: NBA Champion (1955), 12x All-Star (1951-1962), 6x All-NBA First Team Selection (1952-1955, 1957, 1958), All-NBA Second Team Selection (1950, 1951, 1956, 1959-1961), Rebounds Champion (1951)

Dolph Schayes, one of the pioneers of professional basketball, claims the ninth spot among the greatest Philadelphia 76ers players of all time. Schayes, a dominant force during the early years of the franchise when they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, showcased his unparalleled skills and versatility. His impact on the court, particularly during the late 1940s and the 1950s, laid the foundation for the success of the franchise.

Schayes, a Hall of Famer, spent the entirety of his illustrious career with the Nationals/Sixers from 1950 to 1964. A scoring machine, he was one of the first big men to master the art of outside shooting, revolutionizing the power forward position. His scoring prowess, combined with his exceptional rebounding and playmaking abilities, made him a triple threat on the court.

During his tenure, Schayes led the Nationals to their only NBA championship in the 1954-55 season. A 12-time NBA All-Star, he consistently ranked among the league's top scorers and rebounders. His inclusion at number nine acknowledges the foundational role he played in shaping the identity of the Philadelphia 76ers.

10. Maurice Cheeks

Years In Philadelphia: 11 (1979-1989)

Philadelphia: 12.2 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 7.3 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Career: 11.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Honors: NBA Champion (1983), 4x All-Star (1983, 1986-1988), 4x All-Defensive First Team Selection (1983-1986), All-Defensive Second Team Selection (1987)

Maurice Cheeks secures his place among the top 10 greatest Philadelphia 76ers players of all time. Known for his exceptional playmaking skills and tenacious defense, Cheeks played a pivotal role in the success of the Sixers during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Cheeks, often hailed as one of the best point guards of his era, donned the Sixers uniform from 1979 to 1989. His on-court leadership and ability to control the tempo of the game were instrumental in the team's journey to the 1983 NBA championship. A four-time NBA All-Star and a perennial member of the All-Defensive Team, Cheeks was not just a floor general but also a defensive stalwart.

While his scoring may not have garnered the same attention as other prolific scorers, Cheeks' impact went far beyond points. His selfless distribution of the ball, knack for steals, and timely assists made him the engine that powered the Sixers. Cheeks’ averages of 15.3 points, 6.3 assists, and 2.8 steals in the NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1982-83 Finals remains etched in Sixers lore.

Honorable Mentions

Andre Iguodala

Years In Philadelphia: 8 (2005-2012)

Philadelphia: 15.3 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Career: 11.3 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Honors: All-Star (2012), All-Defensive Team Selection (2011), All-Rookie Team Selection (2005)

Andre Iguodala, often hailed as one of the unsung heroes of the Philadelphia 76ers, played a pivotal role during his tenure with the team from 2005 to 2012. Known for his exceptional athleticism and defensive prowess, Iguodala's impact extended beyond conventional statistics. While his numbers may not scream superstar, his versatility and ability to guard multiple positions made him a linchpin in the Sixers' lineup.

The 2011-2012 season stands out when Iguodala showcased his leadership by guiding the team to the playoffs, averaging 12.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. His memorable stint culminated in an unforgettable playoff series against the Boston Celtics in 2012, where Iguodala's all-around contributions were on full display over a 7-game series (13.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists per game). Not just a stat sheet filler, he elevated the team with timely steals, crucial rebounds, and unselfish playmaking.

Despite not securing a championship during his time in Philly, Iguodala left an enduring legacy as a player who embodied the spirit of the Sixers, contributing both on and off the court especially during the years after Allen Iverson’s exit.

Bobby Jones

Years In Philadelphia: 8 (1979-1986)

Philadelphia: 10.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Career: 11.5 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Honors: NBA Champion (1983), 2x All-Star (1981, 1982), 6x All-Defensive First Team Selection (1979-1984), All-Defensive Second Team Selection (1985), Sixth Man of the Year (1983)

A defensive maestro and integral part of the Philadelphia 76ers during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Bobby Jones earns a well-deserved spot in the honorable mentions of the greatest players in franchise history. Although his scoring numbers may not grab headlines, his impact on the game went far beyond points on the board. Jones played a key role in the Sixers' journey to the NBA Finals in 1980 (in a losing effort), averaging 13.0 points and 1.5 blocks per game in the season.

His presence on the court was like a defensive blanket, frustrating opponents and earning him seven NBA All-Defensive Team selections. In the 1982-83 season, he was a crucial part of the team that secured an NBA championship, contributing with his trademark steals, blocks, and timely stops. Jones embodied the essence of a team player, always putting collective success above personal glory.

Chet Walker

Years In Syracuse/Philadelphia: 7 (1963-1969)

Syracuse/Philadelphia: 16.2 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.8 APG

Career: 18.2 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Honors: NBA Champion (1967), 3x All-Star (1964, 1966, 1967), All-Rookie Team Selection (1963)

A basketball star during the 1960s, Chet Walker rightfully claims a place in the honorable mentions of the greatest Syracuse/Philadelphia 76ers players of all time. A silky-smooth scorer, Walker brought finesse and skill to the hardwood, making him a crucial asset for the Sixers. His tenure with the team from 1963 to 1969 saw him consistently putting up impressive numbers, averaging over 18 points per game.

Walker played a pivotal role in the Sixers' success during the 1966-67 season, helping the team clinch an NBA championship alongside the legendary Wilt Chamberlain by contributing 19.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game in the season. Known for his exceptional mid-range jumper and scoring versatility, Walker was a nightmare for defenders. His offensive prowess and clutch performances in crucial moments earned him three All-Star selections during his Philadelphia stint.

Beyond the box scores, Walker's impact extended to his leadership and professionalism, contributing to the team's cohesion and success during the 1960s. While he may not be the first name that comes to mind when reminiscing about the Sixers' glory days, Chet Walker's contributions were integral to the team's historic achievements.