Jan 4, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) greets Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before a game at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Imagesimage captionJan 4, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) greets Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before a game at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Jan 4, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) greets Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before a game at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
There are still elite centers in the NBA, and we rank the 25 best big men heading into the 2025-26 season.
We’ve already gone through the NBA’s elite point guards, shooting guards, small forwards, and power forwards heading into the 2025-26 season. Now it’s time to close out the positional rankings with the centers.
In today’s game, the center position has evolved dramatically, shifting from traditional back-to-the-basket scorers to versatile players who can shoot, pass, defend in space, and still protect the rim at an elite level. The 2025-26 season features a mix of dominant centers who impact the modern game, even if they differ in their approaches.
From MVP-caliber players redefining what a modern center can do, to rising names pushing into the conversation with breakout campaigns, this ranking captures the 25 best centers in the NBA right now.
1. Nikola Jokic
Los Angeles, California, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG
At the top of the food chain of big men, Nikola Jokic continues to redefine what it means to be a superstar center. Averaging a ridiculous triple-double in 2024-25, he’s the NBA’s most unguardable offensive force when it comes to scoring and playmaking with the ball in his hands.
No other center comes close to the three-time MVP in terms of raw dominance on the court. He isn't the best defender nor the flashiest player to watch, but the Serbian's leadership on and off the court cannot be denied. Heading into 2025-26, Jokic is the gold standard of bigs and also the best player in the world.
2. Victor Wembanyama
Atlanta, Georgia, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) in action against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 24.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 3.8 BPG
Superstar Victor Wembanyama is already shattering expectations. At 7-foot-4 with unprecedented length, he impacts games in ways that can’t be captured in stats alone. His 3.8 blocks per game show his elite rim protection, but his ability to recover in space and alter jumpers makes him a one-man defense.
Add in a growing offensive skill set, stretching the floor with confidence, and showing flashes of guard-like ball handling, and he’s becoming one of the league’s best all-around players. If he can stay healthy, Wemby will be in consideration for Defensive Player of the Year and even MVP.
3. Karl-Anthony Towns
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts after a dunk in the second half during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden.
Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 24.4 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Karl-Anthony Towns brings an offensive arsenal few big men can match, even in the modern game. His ability to stretch defenses with elite three-point shooting (42.0%) while still scoring efficiently inside makes him one of the most versatile offensive centers.
Averaging over 24 points and nearly 13 rebounds, Towns gives the New York Knicks a unique weapon that can pull opposing rim protectors out of the paint and open driving lanes for teammates. As the Knicks push for an NBA championship in 2025-26, Towns’ role as a secondary star will be crucial in determining how far the team can go in the postseason.
4. Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (11) smiles after a timeout against the Boston Celtics in the second quarter at the Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 19.1 PPG, 13.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Domantas Sabonis is easily one of the league’s premier interior playmakers and rebounders, regardless of position. Averaging 19.1 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, he is the offensive hub of the Sacramento Kings, whether he wants to be or not.
His vision and passing from the high post make him one of the most dangerous facilitating centers in the game, and he is a three-time rebounding leader as well. Sabonis often gets overlooked when discussing all the best centers in the NBA, but we won't disrespect the big man in that sense.
5. Joel Embiid
Nov 20, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) reacts after a turnover during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum.
Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 23.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG
Joel Embiid remains a force of nature when healthy, as his ability to put up 30 and 12 on any given night makes him one of the most unstoppable scorers in the game. However, because of the fact he only appeared in 19 games, he has to drop to the fifth spot despite being a top-two center when available.
No doubt, when Embiid is on the floor, Philadelphia plays like a contender, but nagging injuries have too often derailed his production. Still, his talent is undeniable, and when he’s locked in physically and mentally, there are stretches where Embiid looks like the best player in the entire league. However, heading into 2025-26 and until he proves us wrong, he will not be consistently healthy.
6. Alperen Sengun
San Francisco, California, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) controls the ball against Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) during the second quarter of Game 4 of the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 19.1 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Alperen Sengun was one of the most creative young bigs last season, but he is coming into his own as a legitimate star during a dominant showing with the Turkish national team at the EuroBasket. Averaging 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists last season, he became Houston’s offensive centerpiece last piece, while getting comparisons to Nikola Jokic.
Defensively, Sengun has improved steadily, using his positioning and instincts to hold his own against more athletic bigs. While not an elite shot-blocker, he’s smart in rotations and strong on the glass, and the Rockets are hoping for continued improvement from their second-best player behind Kevin Durant.
7. Ivica Zubac
Apr 13, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) rebounds the ball against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 16.8 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Ivica Zubac is one of the NBA’s most underrated centers. Averaging 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks last season, he provides Los Angeles with steady production night in and night out. He doesn’t need a high usage rate to be effective, but he was extremely capable last season around the basket.
Defensively, Zubac is strong and disciplined, making him a tough matchup in the paint. While he isn’t flashy, his reliability makes him a dream for Tyronn Lue. He can hold his ground against elite big men, rebound at a high level, and give the Clippers a stabilizing interior presence.
8. Walker Kessler
Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) shoots an open jump shot during the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 11.1 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.4 BPG
Walker Kessler is one of the NBA’s most promising young defensive centers, and that's why he cracks the top 10. Kessler’s rim protection has already made him a cornerstone of Utah’s defense, and his shot-blocking instincts and ability to alter attempts at the rim give the Jazz an elite defensive building block.
Offensively, Kessler is still limited to rim-running and finishing inside, but his efficiency in that role is undeniable. It is even possible that Kessler could move much higher up this list in the coming years, but heading into 2025-26, he ranks quite highly.
9. Jakob Poeltl
Jan 25, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (19) dribbles guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Bogdan Bogdanovic (13) during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 14.5 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Jakob Poeltl continues to carve out a niche as one of the league’s most dependable traditional centers. With averages of 14.5 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks, he brings a well-rounded game that emphasizes efficiency and team play.
Poeltl may not be the type of player who commands highlight reels, but his value lies in the little things. He had the best season of his career in 2024-25, and his consistency ensures he remains one of the NBA’s top-10 big men heading into 2025-26.
10. Jarrett Allen
Nov 29, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) dribbles the ball in the game against the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 13.5 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.9 BPG
Jarrett Allen is a defensive anchor for the Cleveland Cavaliers, bringing mobility, rim protection, and rebounding to one of the league’s stingiest units. Averaging 13.5 points and nearly 10 rebounds, he thrives as a complementary big alongside Evan Mobley.
Offensively, Allen is a reliable finisher who excels in pick-and-roll situations and provides constant energy on the offensive glass. With Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland carrying much of the scoring load, Allen’s role as a lob threat and interior presence perfectly balances the Cavaliers’ offense.
11. Myles Turner
Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) walks downcourt during the third quarter against the New York Knicks during game three of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 15.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.0 BPG
Myles Turner has been one of the most reliable rim protectors in the NBA, and his 2024-25 season reinforced why his impact has been overlooked. Averaging 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks, Turner stretches the floor on offense while anchoring the paint on defense.
The Pacers’ Finals run last season showed just how impactful Turner can be when healthy and fully engaged. Now a member of the Milwaukee Bucks, Turner hopes to gain the respect he deserves as a perfect modern two-way center.
12. Kristaps Porzingis
Apr 8, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts during the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 19.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG
When healthy, Kristaps Porzingis is a top-10 center in the NBA. Standing 7-foot-3 with the ability to stretch the floor, he averaged 19.5 points and 6.8 rebounds in 2024-25, very solid numbers for a third option.
Porzingis’ challenge has always been availability, but when he’s on the court, he gives his team a true mismatch nightmare. Few centers can both protect the rim and consistently hit shots from beyond the arc, and we hope he can stay healthy as he starts his new journey with the Atlanta Hawks.
13. Rudy Gobert
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) looks on against the Philadelphia 76ers in the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 12.0 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Rudy Gobert is still a dominant paint defender, even as offensive production becomes less of his focus. Averaging 12.0 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks, Gobert remains the backbone of Minnesota’s defense around the rim.
While Gobert’s offensive limitations are well-documented and many feel he is overrated, he still provides value with his screen-setting, rolling to the basket, and offensive rebounding. Minnesota doesn’t need him to score 20 a night; they need him to dominate defensively and clean up on the glass, and he does that very well.
14. Jalen Duren
Mar 30, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) celebrates his dunk against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 11.8 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG
At just 21 years old, Jalen Duren has already established himself as one of the most physically dominant centers in the NBA. Averaging 11.8 points and 10.3 rebounds in 2024-25, he’s a nightly double-double threat and a constant presence on the offensive glass.
What makes Duren so intriguing is his potential for growth beyond being a traditional big man. For a talented Detroit Pistons team that wants to make noise in the wide-open Eastern Conference, Duren represents a ceiling that could make him one of the league’s best bigs in the years to come.
15. Nic Claxton
Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton (33) reacts in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 10.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Nic Claxton has to be respected as one of the most switchable defensive centers in basketball. Averaging 10.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks, he combines length, mobility, and energy to make life difficult for opposing guards and wings in pick-and-roll coverage.
Offensively, Claxton’s role is limited, but he thrives in what he’s asked to do. His efficiency as a rim-runner complements Brooklyn’s guards, and his relentless energy ensures he makes an impact without needing high usage. There is supreme value in a big man who knows his limitations and maximizes what he does best.
16. Dereck Lively II
Dereck Lively II Reflects Emotionally On The Loss Of His Mother Before The 2024 Playoffs
Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 8.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Dereck Lively II's production over the first two seasons of his career has proven why Dallas is so high on him as a long-term anchor. Averaging 8.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks, he gave the Mavericks a needed defensive presence in the paint.
His rim protection and rebounding provided balance to Luka Doncic’s offensive brilliance during their 2024 Finals run, and his growing chemistry with the new stars of the Mavericks will be critical in their new phase. If Lively continues to add strength and refine his offensive game, Dallas could have their defensive cornerstone for years to come.
17. Mark Williams
Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) holds the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second quarter at Spectrum Center.
Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 15.3 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Mark Williams put together an impressive season in Charlotte despite being traded mid-season to the Lakers (a deal that ultimately fell through), averaging 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds. He’s not flashy, but he’s consistent, and that reliability is exactly what Phoenix will need as they try to climb out of the rebuilding phase in 2025-26.
His development into a more polished post scorer and improved defender could elevate him into a higher tier among NBA centers. However, he isn't quite there yet to challenge the 15 centers ahead of him.
18. Bobby Portis
Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the first quarter at State Farm Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 13.9 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Bobby Portis may not be a traditional center, but his role in Milwaukee has been crucial as a frontcourt scorer and rebounder. Averaging 13.9 points and 8.4 rebounds in 2024-25, Portis provides instant offense off the bench or as a spot starter.
What makes Portis so effective is his energy and competitive fire. He brings toughness, rebounding, and the occasional hot scoring streak that can swing momentum in a game, and we appreciate his winning mentality enough to place him within the top 20.
19. Daniel Gafford
Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford (21) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Brooklyn Nets at the American Airlines Center.
Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 12.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.4 SPG, 1.8 BPG
Daniel Gafford has become one of the NBA’s best energy bigs, thriving in his role with Dallas. Averaging 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks, Gafford’s athleticism makes him a dangerous lob threat and an intimidating rim protector.
While not a go-to scorer, Gafford excels in doing the little things that don’t always show up on the box score. As long as he stays in his role, Gafford is exactly the kind of high-energy big that the Mavericks will love to have.
20. Nikola Vucevic
Dec 6, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) passes the ball against the Indiana Pacers during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 18.5 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Nikola Vucevic remains one of the most skilled offensive centers in the NBA, averaging 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists last season. Defensively, Vucevic isn’t the rim protector others on this list are, but his rebounding and positional awareness keep him from being a liability.
Vucevic’s consistency as a double-double machine hasn’t wavered as he has aged, although we expect some decline in the 2025-26 season, which is why he drops to 20th place. Still, we aren't going to ignore what the 7'0" big man can do with the ball in his hands.
21. Isaiah Hartenstein
Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) looks to pass the ball against the Orlando Magic in the fourth quarter at Kia Center.
Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 11.2 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Isaiah Hartenstein has emerged as one of the most valuable glue guys at the center position. Posting averages of 11.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, his well-rounded skill set makes him an underrated weapon for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
His presence was invaluable for the Thunder during the team's 2025 championship run, and he just misses out on the top 20 because his minutes will likely come and go during next season to accommodate faster lineups. Still, Hartenstein's impact does not go unnoticed by any means.
22. Wendell Carter Jr.
Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) reacts after a play against the Atlanta Hawks.
Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 9.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Wendell Carter Jr. has carved out a role as the go-to center in Orlando. Averaging 9.1 points and 7.2 rebounds in a down season, he still provided the Magic with both rebounding and a respectable presence on the block.
While not elite defensively, he’s smart in rotations, competes on the glass, and can hold his own against most bigs. Offensively, his ability to step out and shoot while still finishing inside gives Orlando flexibility, so we hope the 26-year-old can get back to his best form in 2025-26.
23. Alex Sarr
Apr 11, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) defends Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr (20) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 13.0 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG
Alex Sarr is proving why he was one of the most hyped prospects in his draft class. Averaging 13.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in his rookie season, he has already flashed elite defensive potential with his length, athleticism, and rim protection instincts.
Sarr's ability to switch out onto wings and guard multiple positions makes him a modern prototype for the center position, although he is still very raw offensively. Next season, Washington views him as a cornerstone of their rebuild, and if his offensive skill set catches up to his defensive prowess, Sarr could start garnering attention around the league.
24. Donovan Clingan
Apr 11, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) scores a basket during the second half against the Golden State Warriors at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 6.5 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Donovan Clingan made an immediate defensive impact in Portland last season, flashing moments of brilliance. Using his size and rim protection instincts to anchor the team’s paint, he may not have put up gaudy scoring numbers, but his defensive contributions gave the Blazers a much-needed interior presence.
On offense, Clingan is still finding his role, but his efficiency as a finisher around the basket and strength as a screener give him value in pick-and-roll sets. With continued development, particularly in post scoring and free-throw shooting, Clingan has the tools to grow into a reliable two-way center.
25. Deandre Ayton
Portland, Oregon, USA; Deandre Ayton (2) reacts after the Portland Trail Blazers' 121-119 overtime win against the Phoenix Suns at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
2024-25 Averages: 14.4 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Deandre Ayton closes out the list as a talented big man whose production looks good but comes with flaws. With averages of 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds, Ayton continues to put up double-double caliber numbers, but his career so far has been marked by inconsistency.
While he flashes All-Star-level skills, stretches of passive play and lapses on defense often leave fans wanting more. In Portland, he had an opportunity to redefine himself as a centerpiece in a young roster, but that flopped. Ayton might have one more shot to prove he actually cares because the Lakers fanbase won't demand it any other way.