Across NBA history, when three incredible players unite on the court, magic happens. The presence of a formidable trio has become essential for top teams, often shaping championship outcomes. What makes a trio legendary? Find out as we look into the top 15 NBA trios that changed the game!
Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman – Chicago Bulls
From 1996 to 1998, this trio led the Bulls to three consecutive titles, dominating the 1990s. Jordan and Pippen had already established their prowess with three straight championships from 1991 to 1993. Rodman’s addition drove them to a 72-10 record in 1996 and six titles in the decade.
Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish – Boston Celtics
In the 1980s, the Celtics’ combination of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish ruled the NBA. They captured three championships, including the legendary 1985-86 team with a top defensive rating and 40 home wins. Their fierce rivalry with the Lakers cemented their era-defining legacy.
Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy – Los Angeles Lakers
The Showtime Lakers thrived on the brilliance of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and James Worthy, leading to five championships. The 1987 team shone with a 65-17 record and a 115.6 offensive rating. As the most intriguing team in NBA history, their fast-paced style changed the game.
Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili – San Antonio Spurs
For 14 seasons, this Spurs trio displayed ultimate consistency and teamwork. Together, they won four championships from 2003 to 2014, with Duncan’s fundamental brilliance, Parker’s quickness, and Ginobili’s flair. Under coach Gregg Popovich, they turned the Spurs into a free-flowing offense and a perennial powerhouse.
Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James – Miami Heat
When these three stars joined forces in 2010, they formed a superteam that dominated the league. Four straight Finals appearances and two championships later, LeBron, Wade, and Bosh left a mark on the NBA, posting a 66-16 record in 2012-13. Their impact included LeBron’s two MVP awards.
Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green – Golden State Warriors
Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green led the Golden State Warriors to four championships and six Finals appearances over 12 seasons. They peaked in their 2015-16 campaign, setting an NBA record with a 73-9 season. Curry also earned back-to-back MVP awards during the era.
Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and Derek Fisher – Los Angeles Lakers
Excellence characterized these three, especially during their three-peat from 2000 to 2002. Shaq averaged 27.7 points and 13.4 rebounds, while Kobe contributed 22.6 points and 4.8 assists per game. Under Hall of Fame coach Jackson, they won 58 games in the 2001-02 season, culminating in another NBA championship.
Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Kevin Durant – Golden State Warriors
When Kevin Durant joined the Warriors in 2017, they became nearly unbeatable. His addition turned the already-potent “Splash Brothers” into an unstoppable trio, leading to back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2018. Durant, Curry, and Thompson held top offensive ratings and efficiency, solidifying the Warriors’ 2010s dynasty.
Bill Russell, Sam Jones, and Tom Heinsohn – Boston Celtics
The trio of Bill Russell, Sam Jones, and Tom Heinsohn had unparalleled success, winning seven consecutive championships from 1958-59 to 1964-65. Russell averaged 16.6 points, 23.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. Jones and Heinsohn contributed 16.2 points and 19.0 points, respectively, showcasing an unmatched championship pedigree.
LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love – Cleveland Cavaliers
Upon rejoining the Cavaliers, LeBron James, Kevin Love, and Kyrie Irving formed a formidable trio. They reached the NBA Finals thrice in three seasons, winning the 2016 championship. LeBron’s block and Kyrie’s game-winning three-pointer helped them overcome a 3-1 deficit against the 73-9 Warriors.
Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen – Boston Celtics
Boston’s 2008 championship trio brought the Celtics back to glory. The three played together from 2007 to 2012. They won the 2008 NBA Championship, posting the league’s best defensive rating. Although Allen left for the Miami Heat in 2012, the trio’s lone title remains significant.
Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Maurice Cheeks – Philadelphia 76ers
Dr. J’s high-flying dunks, Malone’s rebounding and scoring, and Cheeks’ steady leadership on the floor created an unbeatable combination. The Sixers’ trio brought Philadelphia its last NBA championship in 1983. Also, their “fo, fo, fo” playoff run remains one of the most iconic in NBA lore.
Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, and Bill Laimbeer – Detroit Pistons
These boys were tough, gritty, and relentless. Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, and Bill Laimbeer dominated from 1982 to 1991, winning back-to-back NBA Championships in 1989 and 1990. They defeated Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Michael Jordan during their playoff runs. Thomas and Dumars earned Finals MVP honors.
Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and Robert Horry – Houston Rockets
Hakeem’s Rockets of the mid-90s were a force to be reckoned with. Winning back-to-back NBA titles in 1994 and 1995, Olajuwon, Drexler, and Horry combined for 72.1 points, 31.0 rebounds, 16.1 assists, 6.0 steals, and 4.6 blocks in the 1995 Finals sweep of the Magic.
John Stockton, Karl Malone, and Jeff Hornacek – Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz trio of John Stockton, Karl Malone, and Jeff Hornacek personified consistency in the 1990s, reaching the NBA Finals twice. Despite never winning a championship, their flawless execution and teamwork made them one of the greatest teams to never claim a title.
15 Legendary NBA Trio Performances