Ranking All-Time NBA Starting Lineups By Birth Month

In the world of basketball, the greatness of a team can often be defined by its star players, and the NBA is home to a plethora of legendary talents born throughout the year. Imagine a lineup featuring the explosive scoring of LeBron James and the sharpshooting of Larry Bird , or the triple-double prowess of Russell Westbrook paired with the all-around brilliance of Oscar Robertson . Each month brings together a unique combination of Hall of Famers and modern superstars, showcasing the incredible depth of talent across the league’s history.

1. August Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Magic Johnson (August 14)

(G) James Harden (August 26)

(F) Kobe Bryant (August 23)

(F) David Robinson (August 6)

(C) Wilt Chamberlain (August 21)

The month of August had the greatest collection of superstars ever and they work perfectly well together, headlined by three former Lakers. August’s lineup is headlined by Magic Johnson , a five-time NBA champion and three-time MVP known for his exceptional playmaking and leadership. Johnson’s career averages of 19.5 points, 11.2 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game mean he is the greatest point guard of all time.

Pairing him with James Harden, a former MVP and one of the best offensive players in the modern NBA, creates a dynamic backcourt. Harden’s career averages of 24.1 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game, along with his scoring and playmaking abilities, make him a perfect complement to Johnson.

Kobe Bryant , an 18-time All-Star and five-time NBA champion, adds scoring, defense, and leadership to the forward position. Bryant’s career averages of 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game highlight his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. Pairing him with David Robinson, a two-time NBA champion and one of the best two-way big men in NBA history, creates a formidable forward duo. Robinson’s career averages of 21.1 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game, along with his defensive prowess, make him a valuable asset.

Wilt Chamberlain , a two-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, anchors the team at center. Chamberlain’s career averages of 30.1 points, 22.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game highlight his dominance on both ends of the floor. His ability to score, rebound, and protect the rim ensures that the August superteam has a strong inside presence. In terms of offense, inside-outside dominance, and leadership, the August superteam is the most stacked.

2. February Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Steve Nash (February 7)

(G) Michael Jordan (February 17)

(F) Julius Erving (February 22)

(F) Nikola Jokic (February 19)

(C) Bill Russell (February 12)

Some might argue that February's lineup is the greatest, but finishing second isn't too bad. February’s lineup is headlined by Michael Jordan , regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time. Jordan's six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and ten scoring titles underline his unparalleled scoring ability, defensive tenacity, and competitive drive.

Pairing him with Steve Nash, a two-time MVP known for his exceptional playmaking and shooting, creates a lethal combination in the backcourt. Nash’s career averages of 14.3 points and 8.5 assists per game demonstrate his ability to orchestrate the offense and make his teammates better, allowing Jordan to focus on what he does best: winning games.

Julius Erving, a pioneer of above-the-rim play, adds flair and versatility at the forward spot. Known for his incredible athleticism and smooth style, Erving was an 11-time All-Star and the 1981 NBA MVP. He brings an additional scoring option and a strong defensive presence, averaging 24.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game over his career. Erving’s ability to drive to the basket and finish with authority makes him a perfect complement to Jordan on the wing, forming a dynamic and formidable duo.

Nikola Jokic , the three-time NBA MVP, is one of the most versatile and skilled big men in modern NBA history. Jokic's career averages of 20.9 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game highlight his unique ability to contribute across the board. Bill Russell , an 11-time NBA champion and five-time MVP, anchors the defense with his career averages of 15.1 points, 22.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Russell’s defensive dominance and leadership, combined with Jokic’s playmaking and scoring, create a well-rounded frontcourt that is both versatile and defensively formidable.

3. December Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) LeBron James (December 30)

(G) Larry Bird (December 7)

(F) Giannis Antetokounmpo (December 6)

(F) Bob Pettit (December 12)

(C) Dwight Howard (December 8)

The December superteam finishes third because of the fact that their lineup features some players out of position. The lineup is headlined by LeBron James , a four-time MVP and one of the greatest players in NBA history. LeBron’s career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game highlight his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.

Pairing him with Larry Bird, a three-time MVP and one of the best forwards in NBA history, creates a dynamic backcourt. Bird’s career averages of 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game underscore his versatility and all-around game. It is more than interesting that the two greatest small forwards of all time are born in the same month.

Continuing the all-time great forwards, Giannis Antetokounmpo (born one day before Larry Bird), a two-time MVP and one of the best two-way players in the modern NBA, adds scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess to the forward position. Giannis’ career averages of 23.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game highlight his impact on both ends of the floor. Pairing him with Bob Pettit, a two-time MVP and one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, creates a formidable forward duo. Pettit’s career averages of 26.4 points, 16.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game emphasize his dominance in the paint.

Dwight Howard, an eight-time All-Star and one of the best centers of his generation, anchors the team at center. Howard’s career averages of 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game highlight his ability to protect the rim and control the boards. This combination of elite playmaking, scoring, and defensive skills makes the December lineup one of the most dominant teams you can put together.

4. March Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) John Stockton (March 26)

(G) Stephen Curry (March 14)

(F) Chris Webber (March 1)

(F) Moses Malone (March 23)

(C) Shaquille O’Neal (March 6)

The March lineup boasts an exceptional backcourt featuring John Stockton and Stephen Curry . Stockton, the NBA’s all-time leader in assists and steals, averaged 13.1 points, 10.5 assists, and 2.2 steals per game over his career. His playmaking ability and defensive prowess make him the perfect partner for Curry, a two-time MVP and widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history. Curry’s career averages of 24.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game are bolstered by his record-breaking three-point shooting, creating a backcourt that can both distribute and score at an elite level.

Chris Webber, a five-time All-Star known for his scoring, rebounding, and passing, adds versatility and skill to the forward position. Webber’s career averages of 20.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game highlight his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Pairing him with Moses Malone, a three-time MVP and one of the most dominant rebounders in NBA history, creates a formidable frontcourt. Malone’s career averages of 20.3 points and 12.3 rebounds per game, combined with his relentless work ethic, make him a dominant force in the paint.

Shaquille O’Neal , a four-time NBA champion and one of the most dominant centers ever, anchors the team. O’Neal’s career averages of 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game showcase his dominance on both ends of the floor. His ability to score in the post, protect the rim, and control the boards ensures that the March lineup has a strong inside presence. The shooting of Curry matches well with O'Neal so this team is easily fourth among all superteams because of that.

5. April Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Isiah Thomas (April 30)

(G) John Havlicek (April 8)

(F) George Gervin (April 27)

(F) Tim Duncan (April 25)

(C) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (April 16)

April’s superteam features Isiah Thomas, a two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP known for his leadership, scoring, and playmaking abilities. Thomas averaged 19.2 points, 9.3 assists, and 1.9 steals per game over his career, making him one of the most complete point guards in NBA history. Pairing him with John Havlicek, an eight-time NBA champion and 13-time All-Star, creates a backcourt that excels in both offense and defense. Havlicek’s career averages of 20.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game highlight his all-around game and clutch performance in critical moments.

George Gervin, known as “The Iceman,” adds scoring punch and smooth offensive skills to the forward position. A four-time scoring champion and nine-time All-Star, Gervin averaged 25.1 points per game over his career, using his signature finger roll and mid-range game to dominate opponents. His ability to score efficiently complements Tim Duncan , a five-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, who adds versatility and defensive prowess to the frontcourt. Duncan’s career averages of 19.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, along with his fundamental excellence, make him a perfect fit for this lineup.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar , the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with six MVP awards and six NBA championships, anchors the team at center. Abdul-Jabbar’s career averages of 24.6 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, along with his unstoppable skyhook shot, make him a dominant force in the paint. His scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities ensure that the April superteam has a reliable inside presence.

6. June Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Allen Iverson (June 7)

(G) Clyde Drexler (June 22)

(F) Kawhi Leonard (June 29)

(F) Dirk Nowitzki (June 19)

(C) Willis Reed (June 25)

The June superteam is headlined by Allen Iverson , an 11-time All-Star and one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. Iverson’s career averages of 26.7 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.2 steals per game highlight his scoring prowess, playmaking ability, and defensive tenacity. Pairing him with Clyde Drexler, a 10-time All-Star and one of the best shooting guards of his era, creates a dynamic backcourt. Drexler’s career averages of 20.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, along with his athleticism and all-around game, make him a perfect complement to Iverson.

Kawhi Leonard , a two-time NBA champion and two-time Finals MVP, adds scoring, defense, and versatility to the forward position. Leonard’s career averages of 20.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game highlight his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. Pairing him with Dirk Nowitzki, a 14-time All-Star and one of the greatest shooting big men ever (38.0% 3-PT FG), creates a formidable forward duo. Nowitzki’s career averages of 20.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, along with his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, make him a valuable asset.

Willis Reed, a two-time NBA champion and MVP, anchors the team at center. Reed’s career averages of 18.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game highlight his scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities. His leadership and toughness, exemplified by his iconic performance in the 1970 NBA Finals, provide an intangible edge to the June superteam.

Related: 20 Greatest NBA Shooting Guards Of The 21st Century

7. May Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Chris Paul (May 6)

(G) Jerry West (May 28)

(F) Tracy McGrady (May 24)

(F) Carmelo Anthony (May 29)

(C) Kevin Garnett (May 19)

The May superteam is led by Chris Paul , a 12-time All-Star and one of the best point guards in NBA history. Paul’s career averages of 17.5 points, 9.4 assists, and 2.1 steals per game highlight his exceptional playmaking, scoring, and defensive abilities. Pairing him with Jerry West, a 14-time All-Star and one of the greatest shooting guards ever, creates a backcourt that excels in both offense and defense. West’s career averages of 27.0 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game, along with his clutch performances, make him a perfect partner for Paul.

Tracy McGrady, a seven-time All-Star and two-time scoring champion, adds explosive scoring and versatility to the forward position. McGrady averaged 19.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game over his career, using his athleticism and scoring ability to dominate opponents. Pairing him with Carmelo Anthony, a ten-time All-Star and one of the best pure scorers in NBA history, creates a formidable forward duo. Anthony’s career averages of 22.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game highlight his scoring prowess and ability to perform in clutch moments.

Kevin Garnett, a 15-time All-Star, MVP, and one of the best power forwards in NBA history, anchors the team with his versatility and defensive prowess. Garnett’s career averages of 17.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, along with his intensity and leadership, make him a perfect fit for this lineup. His ability to defend multiple positions, rebound, and score efficiently ensures that the May superteam has a strong inside presence. This combination of elite playmaking, scoring, and defensive skills makes the May lineup a formidable opponent for any team.

8. January Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Gilbert Arenas (January 6)

(G) Dwyane Wade (January 17)

(F) Vince Carter (January 26)

(F) Dominique Wilkins (January 12)

(C) Hakeem Olajuwon (January 21)

The January superteam features some of the most dynamic and influential players in NBA history. Gilbert Arenas, a three-time All-Star, was known for his scoring prowess and clutch performances. During his career, he averaged 20.7 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game. Pairing Arenas with Dwyane Wade , a 13-time All-Star and three-time NBA champion, creates a formidable backcourt. Wade’s career averages of 22.0 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game highlight his versatility and ability to perform in critical moments.

At the forward positions, Vince Carter and Dominique Wilkins bring athleticism and scoring ability. Carter, an eight-time All-Star, was famous for his incredible dunking ability and longevity, averaging 16.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game over his career. Wilkins, a nine-time All-Star and one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, averaged 24.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His nickname, “The Human Highlight Film,” is a testament to his exciting playing style and scoring ability.

Anchoring the team at center is Hakeem Olajuwon, a two-time NBA champion and one of the best centers in NBA history. Olajuwon, a 12-time All-Star, was known for his defensive prowess and post moves, averaging 21.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game over his career. His ability to dominate both ends of the court ensures that the January superteam has a strong inside presence.

9. November Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Russell Westbrook (November 12)

(G) Oscar Robertson (November 24)

(F) Shawn Kemp (November 26)

(F) Elvin Hayes (November 17)

(C) Amar'e Stoudemire (November 16)

The November superteam is characterized by athleticism, versatility, and all-around excellence. Russell Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and one of the most explosive guards in NBA history, brings his relentless energy and triple-double ability. Westbrook’s career averages of 21.7 points, 8.1 assists, and 7.1 rebounds per game highlight his impact on the game. Oscar Robertson, a 12-time All-Star and one of the best all-around players in NBA history, complements Westbrook with his scoring, playmaking, and rebounding. Robertson’s career averages of 25.7 points, 9.5 assists, and 7.5 rebounds per game underscore his legendary status.

Shawn Kemp and Elvin Hayes form a powerful forward duo with their scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities. Kemp, a six-time All-Star known for his high-flying dunks, averaged 14.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game over his career. Hayes, a 12-time All-Star and one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, averaged 21.0 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game.

Amar'e Stoudemire, a six-time All-Star, anchors the team at center with his scoring and athleticism. Stoudemire’s career averages of 18.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game highlight his ability to dominate the paint. His explosiveness and scoring touch ensure that the November superteam has a strong inside presence. This combination of elite guard play, versatile forwards, and a dynamic center makes the November lineup a formidable opponent for any team.

10. September Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Chauncey Billups (September 25)

(G) Elgin Baylor (September 16)

(F) Scottie Pippen (September 25)

(F) Kevin Durant (September 29)

(C) Yao Ming (September 12)

The September superteam is led by Chauncey Billups, a five-time All-Star and NBA Finals MVP known for his leadership, clutch performances, and defensive prowess. Billups’ career averages of 15.2 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game highlight his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Pairing him with Elgin Baylor, an 11-time All-Star and one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, creates a dynamic backcourt. Baylor’s career averages of 27.4 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, along with his athleticism and scoring ability, make him a perfect complement to Billups.

Scottie Pippen, a seven-time All-Star and one of the best two-way players in NBA history, adds versatility, defense, and playmaking to the forward position. Pippen’s career averages of 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game highlight his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. Pairing him with Kevin Durant , a two-time NBA champion and one of the best pure scorers in NBA history, creates a formidable forward duo. Durant’s career averages of 27.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, along with his ability to score from anywhere on the court, make him a valuable asset.

Yao Ming, an eight-time All-Star and one of the most skilled big men in NBA history, anchors the team at center. Ming’s career averages of 19.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game highlight his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. This combination of elite playmaking, scoring, and defensive skills makes the September lineup a formidable opponent for any team.

11. July Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Damian Lillard (July 15)

(G) Gary Payton (July 23)

(F) Penny Hardaway (July 18)

(F) Karl Malone (July 24)

(C) Nate Thurmond (July 25)

The July superteam features Damian Lillard, a seven-time All-Star and one of the best clutch performers in NBA history. Lillard’s career averages of 25.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game highlight his scoring ability, playmaking skills, and leadership. Pairing him with Gary Payton, a nine-time All-Star and one of the best defensive guards ever, creates a formidable backcourt. Payton’s career averages of 16.3 points, 6.7 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, along with his defensive prowess, make him a perfect complement to Lillard’s scoring.

Penny Hardaway, a four-time All-Star known for his versatility and playmaking, adds size and skill to the forward position. Hardaway’s career averages of 15.2 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game highlight his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Pairing him with Karl Malone, a 14-time All-Star and two-time MVP, creates a formidable forward duo. Malone’s career averages of 25.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, along with his physicality and scoring ability, make him a dominant force in the paint.

Nate Thurmond, a seven-time All-Star and one of the best defensive centers in NBA history, anchors the team. Thurmond’s career averages of 15.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game highlight his dominance on both ends of the floor. This combination of elite playmaking, scoring, and defensive skills makes the July lineup a formidable opponent for any team.

12. October Superteam

Starting Lineup:

(G) Derrick Rose (October 4)

(G) Devin Booker (October 30)

(F) Paul Pierce (October 13)

(F) Grant Hill (October 5)

(C) Brad Daugherty (October 19)

The October superteam boasts a mix of explosive athleticism, scoring prowess, and versatility. Derrick Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, brings his lightning-quick speed and ability to penetrate defenses. His career averages of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game underscore his impact on the court. Devin Booker , a dynamic scorer and sharpshooter, complements Rose in the backcourt. Booker’s career averages of 24.3 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game highlight his scoring ability and playmaking skills.

At the forward positions, Paul Pierce and Grant Hill add a blend of scoring, playmaking, and leadership. Pierce, a 10-time All-Star and 2008 NBA champion, was known for his clutch performances and scoring versatility, with career averages of 19.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Grant Hill, a seven-time All-Star, was an exceptional all-around player, averaging 16.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game over his career. Hill’s versatility and defensive acumen make him a perfect fit alongside Pierce.

Anchoring the team at center is Brad Daugherty, a five-time All-Star known for his scoring touch and rebounding. Daugherty’s career averages of 19.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game highlight his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His presence in the paint ensures that the October superteam has a reliable scoring and defensive option inside.

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