20 Best Shooting Guards Of The 21st Century

NBA shooting guards in the 21st century were not only elite scorers but some of the most impactful players of all time. Superstars such as Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade are the first names that come to mind but don’t count out some of the modern stars including James Harden and Devin Booker . The 1990s legends such as Michael Jordan and Reggie Miller were still active in the 21st century but a combined eight seasons between them means they miss out.

Following our article about the greatest point guards , this article ranks and celebrates the 20 best shooting guards of the 21st century, highlighting their statistical achievements and contributions to their teams' success on the hardwood.

1. Kobe Bryant (1997-2016)

Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 2007-08 MVP, 18x All-Star, 15x All-NBA Team Selection, 12x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 1996-97 All-Rookie Team Selection, 4x All-Star Game MVP, Hall of Fame

Kobe Bryant's legendary career solidifies him as the quintessential shooting guard of the 21st century. Renowned for his relentless work ethic, Mamba Mentality, and clutch performances, Bryant led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships, capturing two Finals MVP awards in the process. His scoring was unparalleled, evidenced by his two scoring titles and multiple 50 and 60-point games, including an 81-point outburst in 2006.

Kobe’s impact on the game extended beyond scoring; he was a fierce defender, earning 12 All-Defensive Team selections, and a reliable playmaker, as shown by his career averages of 4.7 assists per game. Bryant's 20-year career with the Lakers was marked by his exceptional durability and consistency. He was an 18-time All-Star, tied for the second-most in NBA history, and won four All-Star Game MVPs.

His competitive spirit and leadership qualities were crucial in guiding the Lakers through both dominant championship runs and challenging rebuild phases. Kobe’s influence on and off the court, his remarkable individual accomplishments, and his contributions to the Lakers’ legacy affirm his place as the greatest shooting guard of his era.

2. Dwyane Wade (2004-2019)

Stats: 22.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 2005-06 Finals MVP, 13x All-Star, 8x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2008-09 Scoring Champion, 2003-04 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame

Dwyane Wade's ability to score, facilitate, and defend made him one of the most complete guards in NBA history and right behind Kobe Bryant in the 21st century. He led the Miami Heat to three NBA championships, earning Finals MVP honors in 2006 for his spectacular performance against the Dallas Mavericks. Wade's scoring prowess was highlighted in the 2008-09 season when he won the scoring title with an average of 30.2 points per game.

Wade was a 13-time All-Star, reflecting his sustained excellence and popularity throughout his career. His eight All-NBA selections and three All-Defensive Team honors underscore his impact on both ends of the floor. Beyond statistics, Wade's leadership and clutch performances were crucial in the Heat's success, particularly during their "Big Three" era with LeBron James and Chris Bosh. Wade's blend of athleticism, skill, and competitive spirit cements his legacy as one of the greatest shooting guards of the 21st century.

3. Allen Iverson (1997-2010)

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

Achievements: 2000-01 MVP, 11x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 4x Scoring Champion, 3x Steals Champion, 1996-97 Rookie of the Year, 1996-97 All-Rookie Team Selection, 2x All-Star Game MVP, Hall of Fame

Allen Iverson was one of the most electrifying and influential players of his era. Known for his incredible scoring skills and fearless attitude, Iverson dominated the game despite his relatively small stature at 6’0” and 165 lbs. He led the league in scoring four times, consistently displaying his capability to put up points against any defense.

Iverson's 2000-01 MVP season was a testament to his impact, as he carried the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals, showcasing his scoring, playmaking, and tenacity on both ends of the court. The guard’s influence extended beyond his on-court performance; he became a cultural icon, known for his style, toughness, and fan favoritism. Iverson's legacy as one of the greatest and most impactful shooting guards of the 21st century is undeniable.

4. James Harden (2010-2024)

Stats: 24.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: 2017-18 MVP, 10x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x Scoring Champion, 2x Assist Champion, 2011-12 Sixth Man of the Year, 2009-10 All-Rookie Team Selection

James Harden has established himself as one of the most dominant offensive players of the 21st century. Harden's unique skill to score in various ways, combined with his exceptional court vision, has made him a perennial MVP candidate and a consistent threat on the court. Harden's 2017-18 MVP season showcased his capability to lead the Houston Rockets, averaging 30.4 points and 8.8 assists per game. His three consecutive scoring titles from 2018 to 2020 underscore his offensive prowess and natural skill to take over games.

Harden's 10 All-Star appearances and seven All-NBA selections highlight his sustained excellence and impact in the league. Harden's style of play, characterized by his step-back three-pointers and skill of drawing fouls, has influenced the game and set new trends in offensive strategy despite the criticism he seems to receive for only making one Finals appearance in his career as a sixth man.

5. Tracy McGrady (1998-2012)

Stats: 19.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements: 7x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2000-01 Most Improved Player, Hall of Fame

Tracy McGrady was one of the most versatile and explosive scorers in NBA history. McGrady's scoring was highlighted by his two scoring titles, where he averaged over 30 points per game in consecutive seasons. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill allowed him to score from anywhere on the court, making him a matchup nightmare for defenders. McGrady's career was marked by his capability to take over games, including memorable performances such as his 13 points in 33 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs in 2004.

McGrady's seven All-Star appearances and seven All-NBA selections reflect his status as one of the league's premier players during his career. Despite battling injuries, McGrady's impact on the game was significant, as he consistently demonstrated his ability to lead and elevate his team's performance. If McGrady had stayed healthy, he might have been up there with Kobe Bryant but still showed enough greatness over 16 seasons to make it in the top five despite not having a Finals appearance.

6. Klay Thompson (2012-2024)

Stats: 19.5 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 5x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 2018-19 All-Defensive Team Selection, 2011-12 All-Rookie Team Selection

Klay Thompson , known for his exceptional shooting and defensive abilities, has been a crucial part of the Golden State Warriors' dynasty. Thompson's ability to shoot at a high percentage from beyond the arc has made him one of the most lethal shooters in NBA history. His career 3-point shooting percentage of 41.3% highlights his efficiency and consistency. Thompson's ability to perform in high-pressure situations, including multiple NBA Finals, has been instrumental in the Warriors' four championships during his tenure.

Thompson's five All-Star appearances and two All-NBA selections reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era. His defensive prowess, evidenced by his All-Defensive Team selection, reflecting his impact on the game on both ends of the floor. His contributions to the Warriors' success as one-half of the “Splash Brothers” alongside Stephen Curry and his reputation as one of the best two-way players in the league solidify his place among the top shooting guards of the 21st century.

7. Ray Allen (1997-2014)

Stats: 18.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 10x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 1996-97 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame

Ray Allen , often regarded as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, had a career defined by his exceptional shooting and clutch performances. Allen's ability to shoot from beyond the arc, with a career 3-point percentage of 40.0%, made him a constant threat on the court. His record for most 3-pointers made until surpassed by Stephen Curry highlights his longevity and consistency as a shooter.

Allen's career was marked by a capability to perform in crucial moments, including his iconic game-tying three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals. The shooting guard’s 10 All-Star appearances and two All-NBA selections reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era. Allen's contributions to two NBA championships, with the Boston Celtics in 2008 and the Miami Heat in 2013, showcase his impact on winning teams.

8. Vince Carter (1999-2020)

Stats: 16.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: 8x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 1998-99 Rookie of the Year, 1998-99 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame

Vince Carter , known for his incredible athleticism and highlight-reel dunks, had a career that spanned over two decades. Carter's scoring and versatility allowed him to adapt his game as he aged, contributing significantly to multiple teams throughout his career. His eight All-Star appearances and two All-NBA selections reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era.

Carter's impact on the game extended beyond his statistics; he became a cultural icon and inspired a generation of players with his electrifying style of play. His influence was particularly significant during his early years with the Toronto Raptors, where he helped popularize basketball in Canada and led the team to its first playoff appearance. Vince Carter's combination of athleticism, skill, and longevity solidifies his place among the top shooting guards of the 21st century.

9. Manu Ginobili (2003-2018)

Stats: 13.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 2x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 2007-08 Sixth Man of the Year, 2002-03 All-Rookie Team Selection, Hall of Fame

Manu Ginobili, known for his creativity and flair on the court, was a key component of the San Antonio Spurs' dynasty. Ginobili's capability to come off the bench and impact the game in various ways made him one of the most versatile and valuable players of his era. His four NBA championships with the Spurs highlight his contributions to one of the most successful franchises in NBA history. Ginobili's career was marked by his willingness to sacrifice personal accolades for team success, exemplified by his role as a sixth man.

Ginobili's career averages of 13.3 points, 3.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game illustrate his all-around contributions. His two All-Star appearances and two All-NBA selections reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era. Ginobili was not only a fan favorite, but a respected leader, and one of the best international NBA players ever.

10. Jimmy Butler (2012-2024)

Stats: 18.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements: 6x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, 2014-15 Most Improved Player, 2020-21 Steals Champion

Jimmy Butler has established himself as one of the top two-way players in the NBA. Butler's capability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has been a key factor in his team's success because he made two Finals appearances in four seasons with the Miami Heat once he became the man on his team. Meanwhile, his six All-Star appearances and five All-NBA selections highlight his status as one of the league's premier shooting guards.

Butler's defensive prowess, evidenced by his five All-Defensive Team selections, showcases his skill of guarding multiple positions and disrupting opposing offenses. He has to be named one of the best defensive players of his era, and his career averages of 17.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game demonstrate his versatility and all-around contributions. Butler's combination of scoring, defense, and leadership solidifies his place among the top shooting guards of the 21st century.

Related: Ranking The Greatest Draft Class' Big 3 Of All Time

11. Devin Booker (2016-2024)

Stats: 24.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: 4x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 2015-16 All-Rookie Team Selection

Devin Booker , known for his scoring and smooth shooting stroke, has quickly established himself as one of the top shooting guards in the NBA. Booker's scoring from anywhere on the court, combined with his playmaking skills, has made him a focal point of the Phoenix Suns' offense. His four All-Star appearances and one All-NBA selection highlight his status as one of the league's premier young talents and he is only 27 years old.

Booker's scoring was on full display during his 70-point game in 2017, one of the highest-scoring games in NBA history. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, including leading the Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021, showcases his potential to be a future superstar. Booker's combination of scoring, playmaking, and leadership make him one of the top shooting guards of the 21st century and a key player to watch in the coming years.

12. Joe Johnson (2002-2018, 2022)

Stats: 16.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements: 7x All-Star, 2009-10 All-NBA Team Selection, 2001-02 All-Rookie Team Selection

Joe Johnson's innate skill to score in various ways, combined with his size and skill, made him a tough matchup for defenders. His seven All-Star appearances and one All-NBA selection reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era. Johnson's ability to hit clutch shots, including multiple game-winners, earned him the nickname "Iso Joe" for his proficiency in isolation situations.

Johnson's career averages of 16.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game illustrate his all-around contributions on the court. His impact extended beyond his statistics; Johnson was a reliable scorer and leader for multiple teams throughout his career, including the Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets.

13. Richard Hamilton (2000-2013)

Stats: 17.1 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements: 2003-04 NBA Champion, 3x All-Star

Richard Hamilton, known for his exceptional mid-range shooting and off-ball movement, was a key component of the Detroit Pistons' success in the early 2000s. Hamilton's capability to score efficiently from mid-range and his relentless energy on the court made him a difficult player to guard. His three All-Star appearances reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era. Hamilton's most significant achievement was helping lead the Pistons to an NBA championship in 2004, where his scoring and leadership were crucial.

Hamilton's career averages of 17.1 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game illustrate his consistent scoring and all-around contributions. His impact extended beyond his statistics; Hamilton's work ethic and team-first mentality were integral to the Pistons' defensive-oriented style of play. Richard Hamilton's combination of scoring, movement without the ball, and championship pedigree solidify his place among the top shooting guards of the 21st century.

14. DeMar DeRozan (2010-2024)

Stats: 21.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: 6x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection

DeMar DeRozan , with his scoring and mid-range prowess, has established himself as one of the top shooting guards in the NBA. DeRozan's expertise in scoring in various ways, particularly from mid-range, has made him a reliable offensive threat. His six All-Star appearances and three All-NBA selections highlight his status as one of the league's premier shooting guards. DeRozan's consistency and capability to adapt his game have been crucial in his success with both the Toronto Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs.

DeRozan's career averages of 21.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game illustrate his all-around contributions on the court. His impact on the game extends beyond statistics; DeRozan's leadership and work ethic have been instrumental in his teams' success. DeMar DeRozan's combination of scoring, playmaking, and leadership solidified his place among the top shooting guards of the 21st century.

15. Donovan Mitchell (2018-2024)

Stats: 24.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: 5x All-Star, 2022-23 All-NBA Team Selection, 2017-18 All-Rookie Team Selection

Donovan Mitchell has quickly become one of the top shooting guards in the NBA and it might not be long before he cracks the top 10 at the pace he has been on. Mitchell's prowess to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his defensive capabilities, has made him a key player for the Utah Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers. His four All-Star appearances and one All-NBA selection highlight his status as one of the league's premier young talents. Mitchell's scoring was on full display during his 57-point game in the 2020 NBA playoffs, one of the highest-scoring performances in playoff history.

His growing adeptness to perform in high-pressure situations, including leading the Jazz and Cavaliers to seven playoff appearances, showcases his potential to be a future superstar. Add in a 70-point performance on his resume and Mitchell is one of the best shooting guards of the 21st century so far.

16. Brandon Roy (2007-2013)

Stats: 18.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements: 3x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 2006-07 Rookie of the Year, 2006-07 All-Rookie Team Selection

Brandon Roy unfortunately had a career that was unfortunately cut short by injuries. Roy's mastery to score efficiently from various spots on the court, combined with his playmaking skills, made him one of the top shooting guards during his peak. His three All-Star appearances and two All-NBA selections reflect his status as one of the top players in the league during his prime.

Roy's impact on the Portland Trail Blazers was significant, as he quickly became the team's leader and go-to scorer. The shooting guard’s career averages of 18.8 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game illustrate his all-around contributions on the court. Brandon Roy's combination of scoring, playmaking, and leadership solidifies his place among the top shooting guards of the 21st century, despite his career being shortened by injuries.

17. Jrue Holiday (2010-2024)

Stats: 16.1 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 2x All-Star, 6x All-Defensive Team Selection

Jrue Holiday , known for his defensive prowess and playmaking, has established himself as one of the top two-way players in the NBA and a winning player. Holiday's propensity to impact the game on both ends of the floor has been a key factor in his teams' success, winning an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021 and Boston Celtics in 2024.

His two All-Star appearances and six All-Defensive Team selections highlight his status as one of the league's premier defensive guards, and he has proven to be the missing piece behind two NBA title-winning franchises. That easily places him in the top 20 among all of his peers in the 21st century.

18. Michael Finley (1996-2010)

Stats: 15.7 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: 2006-07 NBA Champion, 2x All-Star, 1995-96 All-Rookie Team Selection

Michael Finley, known for his scoring and athleticism, had a career defined by his consistency and contributions to winning teams. Finley's ability to score in various ways, combined with his size and skill, made him a tough matchup for defenders. His two All-Star appearances reflect his status as one of the top shooting guards of his era.

Finley's most significant achievement was helping lead the San Antonio Spurs to an NBA championship in 2007, where his scoring and veteran leadership were crucial. His impact extended beyond his statistics; Finley was a reliable scorer and leader for multiple teams throughout his career, including the Dallas Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs.

19. Bradley Beal (2013-2024)

Stats: 21.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements: 3x All-Star, 2020-21 All-NBA Team Selection, 2012-13 All-Rookie Team Selection

Bradley Beal, despite struggling with injuries in the latter parts of his career and only having six postseason appearances, has quickly established himself as one of the top shooting guards in the NBA. Beal's ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his playmaking skills, has made him a focal point of the Washington Wizards' offense. His three All-Star appearances and one All-NBA selection highlight his status as one of the league's premier talents. Beal's scoring was on full display during his back-to-back seasons averaging over 30 points per game in 2020 and 2021.

Beal's career averages of 22.1 points, 4.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game illustrate his all-around contributions on the court and the shooting guard hopes to make his first Finals appearance with the Phoenix Suns as he is 31 years old and might not have many years left of his prime.

20. Victor Oladipo (2014-2023)

Stats: 16.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: 2x All-Star, 2017-18 All-NBA Team Selection, 2017-18 All-Defensive Team Selection, 2017-18 Most Improved Player, 2017-18 Steals Champion, 2013-14 All-Rookie Team Selection

Victor Oladipo, known for his defensive prowess and athleticism, had established himself as one of the top two-way players in the NBA before injuries derailed his career. Oladipo's expertise to impact the game on both ends of the floor has been a key factor in his success. His two All-Star appearances and one All-NBA selection highlight his status as one of the league's premier talents. Oladipo's defensive capabilities, evidenced by his two All-Defensive Team selections, showcase his ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses.

Oladipo's career averages of 16.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game demonstrate his versatility and all-around contributions so his combination of scoring, defense, and leadership make him one of the top shooting guards of the 21st century regardless of his injury history.

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