Who's the greatest shot blocker in NBA history?

Question

In my opinion it's Manute Bol & Bill Russell

Answer 1

Back in Bill Russel's day blocks were not a statistical category. Just like sacks in football, no one counted blocks until the mid 70's. People who watched them play say both Bill Russel and Wilt Chamberlain routinely had double digit block nights. It's said that Wilt once had 25 in one game! Since no records were kept it's impossible to know who had more, but if first person accouts are accurate, it's a two man race. Based on stats, you're right, Manute Bol has the highest per game avg. of blocks at 3.3 per game. The only players really close are Hakeem Olajuwon at 3.1 per game and David Robinson at 3.0.

Answer 2

That's a tough call because the blocked shot was not an official statistic kept by the NBA until the 1973-1974 season. There were a number of good shot blockers before then: Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell are normally the only two who get mentioned, but Nate Thurmond, Al Attles, George Mikan, Elvin Hayes and Dolph Schayes all blocked a lot of shots.

Answer 3

Why do you have Manute Bol on your list?

Bill Russell is the best. Hands down.

Answer 4

Has to be Bill Russell...he won like 8 championships too!! He is a proven winner and a difference maker on the floor with his energy and intimidation.

Answer 5

I'd say Bill Russell. He blocked shots without swatting them out of bounds and his timing was impeccable.

Next I'd pick Alonzo Mourning over Dikembe Mutombo and Andrei Kirilenko.

Answer 6

Hakeem Olajuwan

Answer 7

I would say Bill Russell because he would direct his block to a teammate to run the fabled Celtics Fastbreak.... Two Points.

Answer 8

Wilt Chamberlain. By a mile.
Russell and Kareem follow Wilt.

Answer 9

Mark Eaton

Answer 10

Hakeem Olajuwan he is the number #1 on the all-time list when it comes to shotblocking.