Top 10 NBA Shooting Guards from the 2010s

The 2010s were a golden era for the National Basketball Association (NBA), with a plethora of talented players gracing the hardwood. Among these stars, the shooting guards held a special place, captivating fans worldwide with their scoring prowess, defensive tenacity, and clutch performances.

In this article, we’ll talk about the top 10 NBA shooting guards from the 2010s, celebrating their impact on the game and the lasting mark they left on basketball history.

Top 10 NBA Shooting Guards from the 2010s

Shooting guards, also known as the two-guards, have always been a crucial part of any NBA team. Their primary role is to score points, but the best of them have transcended their positions and become complete players.

1. Kobe Bryant
2. Dwyane Wade
3. James Harden
4. Klay Thompson
5. Paul George
6. Jimmy Butler
7. DeMar DeRozan
8. Bradley Beal
9. CJ McCollum
10. Victor Oladipo

Let’s explore the cream of the crop from this remarkable decade.

1. Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant, often referred to as “The Black Mamba,” was a true basketball legend. His career spanned two decades, from the late 1990s through the 2010s. Kobe’s impact on the game was immeasurable. He was not just a player; he was a symbol of dedication and excellence.

• Scoring Prowess: Kobe was renowned for his scoring ability. He had an incredible arsenal of offensive moves, from his deadly mid-range jumper to his acrobatic finishes at the rim. His footwork and basketball IQ allowed him to consistently outsmart defenders and put up impressive point totals. Kobe led the league in scoring multiple times, including during the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 seasons.
• Relentless Work Ethic: What set Kobe apart was his relentless work ethic. He was notorious for his early morning and late-night practice sessions. He believed in the power of preparation and famously stated, “I’ll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it’s sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot.”
• Championship Success: Kobe Bryant’s legacy includes five NBA championships, all with the Los Angeles Lakers. He was the Finals MVP twice and played an instrumental role in each championship run. His partnership with Shaquille O’Neal in the early 2000s and later with Pau Gasol showcased his ability to adapt and win titles with different teammates.
• Iconic Figure: Beyond the court, Kobe transcended the sport to become a global icon. His impact extended beyond basketball, and he was beloved by fans worldwide. Tragically, his life was cut short in 2020, but his legacy as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history lives on.

2. Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade, known as “Flash,” was the embodiment of Miami Heat basketball for over a decade. His impact on the team and the league as a whole was immense.

• Clutch Performer: Wade had an uncanny ability to take over games when it mattered most. His clutch performances in playoff games are etched in NBA history. The 2006 NBA Finals, where he averaged 34.7 points per game, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion.
• Leadership: Wade was not just a scorer; he was a leader on and off the court. His charisma and work ethic made him a respected figure in the locker room and the community. He led by example, often sacrificing his body for the team’s success.
• Championships and All-Star Appearances: Wade’s career included three NBA championships, all with the Miami Heat. He was instrumental in recruiting LeBron James and Chris Bosh to form the “Big Three” in Miami, which led to two championships in 2012 and 2013. Wade was named an All-Star numerous times, cementing his status as one of the best in the league.

Dwyane Wade’s impact on the Miami Heat and his contributions to the game of basketball, both in terms of skill and leadership, solidify his place among the elite shooting guards.

3. James Harden

James Harden’s playing style, often referred to as “The Beard,” was revolutionary. He redefined the shooting guard position and brought a unique blend of scoring and playmaking.

• Scoring and Playmaking: Harden’s ability to score from virtually anywhere on the court, whether it be three-pointers, mid-range jumpers, or drives to the basket, made him a scoring machine. His step-back three-pointer became an iconic move, and he led the league in scoring multiple times. Additionally, his court vision and passing ability allowed him to excel as a playmaker, leading to high assist totals.
• MVP Awards: Harden’s impact was acknowledged with multiple MVP awards. He won the MVP in the 2017-2018 season and was a perennial MVP candidate during the 2010s. His scoring titles and incredible offensive production set him apart.
• Versatility: While Harden was primarily known for his offense, he also improved his defense and became a more well-rounded player as the decade progressed. His ability to take over games and carry his team on his back made him one of the most dominant players of the era.

James Harden’s unique style and his transformative impact on the shooting guard position will be remembered as a defining feature of the 2010s NBA.

4. Klay Thompson

Klay Thompson, one-half of the Splash Brothers alongside Stephen Curry, played a pivotal role in the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty.

• Sharpshooting: Klay was known for his exceptional three-point shooting. His ability to catch fire and score in bunches from beyond the arc made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He holds the record for most three-pointers made in a single game with 14, which he achieved in 2018.
• Two-Way Player: Klay wasn’t just an offensive specialist; he was also a standout defender. His defensive skills were crucial to the Warriors’ success, as he often guarded the opponent’s best perimeter player.
• Championships and Team Success: Klay was part of the Warriors’ championship-winning teams in 2015, 2017, and 2018. His chemistry with Curry and his ability to come through in big moments were essential to the team’s dominance in the 2010s.

Klay Thompson’s sharpshooting and two-way abilities solidified him as one of the premier shooting guards of the decade and a key contributor to the Warriors’ dynasty.

5. Paul George

Paul George was a versatile and elite shooting guard who made his mark in the NBA with a combination of scoring prowess and lockdown defense.

• Versatility: Paul George’s ability to contribute in various facets of the game was his calling card. He could score from long-range, mid-range, and drive to the basket with equal ease. His offensive versatility allowed him to adapt to different team systems and playstyles.
• Elite Defense: What set George apart was his defensive prowess. He was known for his ability to guard multiple positions and was often tasked with shutting down the opponent’s best player. His inclusion on All-Defensive teams several times highlighted his defensive excellence.
• NBA Superstar: Paul George’s performances with the Indiana Pacers, where he led the team to multiple deep playoff runs, and his subsequent stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers solidified his status as an NBA superstar. He was a perennial All-Star and one of the league’s most well-rounded players.

6. Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler is known for his testament to hard work, competitiveness, and leadership in the NBA.

• Work Ethic: Butler’s journey to stardom was marked by his incredible work ethic. He came into the league as a relatively unheralded player but worked tirelessly to improve his game. His relentless drive to be the best inspired his teammates and earned him respect throughout the league.
• Two-Way Impact: Butler was not just a scorer; he was an exceptional defender. His tenacity on the defensive end often led to key steals and stops in crucial moments. His ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor set him apart.
• Leadership: Jimmy Butler’s leadership was on full display during his time with the Miami Heat. He helped lead the Heat to the NBA Finals in 2020, instilling a culture of hard work and competitiveness. His leadership qualities were invaluable to his teams.

7. DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan was a scoring machine known for his mid-range game and ability to put up points in a variety of ways.

• Scoring Prowess: DeRozan’s ability to score was second to none. He was known for his proficiency in the mid-range, an art that had become somewhat rare in the modern NBA. His footwork and ability to create his own shot made him a joy to watch.
• Toronto Raptors Stalwart: DeRozan spent the majority of the 2010s with the Toronto Raptors, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. He played a key role in the team’s success, helping them consistently make the playoffs.
• Transition to the San Antonio Spurs: DeRozan’s move to the San Antonio Spurs showcased his adaptability. He continued to be a scoring force, demonstrating his ability to fit into different team systems.

8. Bradley Beal

Bradley Beal emerged as one of the premier scoring shooting guards of the 2010s, known for his consistency and ability to put up big numbers.

• Scoring Sensation: Beal’s scoring ability was a highlight of his game. He had the knack for putting up 30+ points on any given night and became the primary offensive option for the Washington Wizards. His scoring prowess made him a formidable force in the league.
• Leadership Role: As the leader of the Wizards, Beal embraced a leadership role. His ability to carry the team offensively and his dedication to improving his overall game made him a central figure for the franchise.
• All-Star Performances: Beal’s scoring prowess and contributions earned him multiple All-Star selections, further solidifying his status as one of the top shooting guards in the league.

9. CJ McCollum

CJ McCollum formed a dynamic duo with Damian Lillard in Portland, contributing with his scoring and clutch performances.

• Dynamic Scoring: McCollum’s scoring ability, combined with Damian Lillard, made the Portland Trail Blazers a formidable offensive force. His mid-range game and three-point shooting complemented Lillard’s skills.
• Clutch Performances: McCollum was known for stepping up in critical moments, hitting clutch shots, and carrying the offensive load when his team needed it the most. His ability to perform under pressure made him a fan favorite in Portland.
• Playoff Success: McCollum’s performances in the playoffs, including deep runs in the Western Conference, were a testament to his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage.

10. Victor Oladipo

The 2010s witnessed the rise of exceptional shooting guards who left an indelible mark on the NBA. From Kobe Bryant’s legendary career to the emergence of stars like James Harden and Bradley Beal, this decade was a treasure trove of talent and unforgettable moments.

These players demonstrated the evolution of the shooting guard position, combining scoring prowess with defense and leadership. Their impact on the game will be felt for generations to come.