Having watched the NBA religiously for over a decade, I’ve always been fascinated by how the center position has evolved. We’ve come a long way from the days when big men were expected to just camp in the paint, grab rebounds, and block shots. Today’s centers are versatile, skilled, and often the engine of their teams’ offense and defense. So, who are the top centers in the NBA right now, and what makes them so dominant? Let’s dive in.
First on my list, and it’s hardly a surprise, is Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets. The man is a statistical marvel—averaging something like 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists per game last season. But numbers alone don’t capture his genius. Jokić sees the game in a way that’s almost artistic. His passing is sublime, his decision-making under pressure is elite, and he’s redefined what a center can do offensively. He doesn’t rely on explosive athleticism; instead, he uses his high basketball IQ and impeccable timing to control the pace of the game. In my view, he’s the best passing big man in NBA history, and his two MVP awards are a testament to that. What sets him apart is his ability to make everyone around him better, turning role players into key contributors night after night.
Then there’s Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers. Embiid is a force of nature—a 7-footer with the skills of a guard. He’s a scoring machine, putting up around 33 points per game while also anchoring the defense with his shot-blocking and physical presence. I love watching him because he combines old-school post moves with modern perimeter shooting. He can bully you in the paint or step out and hit a three, making him nearly unguardable when he’s healthy. His footwork is textbook, and his defensive instincts are off the charts. Sure, he’s had his share of injuries, but when he’s on the court, he’s a nightmare for opponents. In my opinion, Embiid’s dominance stems from his relentless work ethic and his ability to adapt his game over the years.
Another name that can’t be overlooked is Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers. While he often plays power forward, he spends plenty of time at center, especially in crucial moments. Davis is a defensive savant—his ability to switch onto guards, protect the rim, and disrupt passing lanes is second to none. Offensively, he’s a nightmare matchup with his mid-range jumper and finishing around the basket. I’ve always admired his versatility; he can drop 40 points one night and then lock down the paint the next. His impact on winning was clear during the Lakers’ 2020 championship run, where he was arguably the most important player. For me, Davis represents the modern hybrid big—someone who can do it all without being pigeonholed into one role.
Beyond these established stars, younger centers like Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat are making waves. Adebayo might not have the gaudy scoring numbers of Jokić or Embiid, but his defensive versatility and playmaking are elite. He’s the heart of Miami’s switch-heavy defense, capable of guarding all five positions. Offensively, he’s a fantastic passer and screener, often acting as the hub of their offense. I see him as a glue guy who elevates his team in ways that don’t always show up in the box score.
Now, you might wonder why I’m focusing so much on individual dominance. Well, it’s because centers like these are reshaping the game globally. Take, for instance, the recent news about the B.League in Japan. Nao Okamoto, their executive officer for international business, mentioned they’re exploring exhibition games with other Asian leagues. This kind of cross-league collaboration highlights how the NBA’s influence is spreading, and dominant centers are a big part of that appeal. Fans in Asia want to see these giants up close—whether it’s Jokić’s passing wizardry or Embiid’s scoring prowess. In my experience covering basketball, I’ve noticed that international audiences are drawn to skilled big men because they embody a unique blend of power and finesse.
Of course, dominance isn’t just about stats; it’s about impact. Centers like Rudy Gobert of the Minnesota Timberwolves might not be flashy, but his defensive presence alone can swing games. He’s a three-time Defensive Player of the Year for a reason—altering shots, grabbing rebounds, and allowing his teammates to take risks on the perimeter. On the other hand, Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings brings a throwback style with his rebounding and interior scoring, averaging a double-double effortlessly. I have a soft spot for Sabonis because he reminds me of the classic bigs, yet he’s adapted to today’s pace with his passing and high-energy play.
In conclusion, the top centers in the NBA today dominate because they’ve mastered a blend of traditional skills and modern versatility. Jokić, Embiid, and Davis lead the pack, but the depth at the position is incredible. They’re not just tall players; they’re leaders, playmakers, and game-changers. As the sport continues to globalize—evidenced by initiatives like the B.League’s partnerships—these players will inspire the next generation. Personally, I can’t wait to see how the position evolves further. Will we see even more skilled big men emerging from overseas? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the era of the dominant center is alive and well.