One of the most popular debates in the NBA is about people’s opinions on who they would name as their all-time starting five. Fans frequently engage in these conversations. Who’s on your list? Boston Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown recently joined the discussion.
As a Finals MVP, Brown brings a unique perspective to the table. He sat down with NBA host Ahmad Rashad to share his list.
Boston Celtics SF Jaylen Brown Details His All-Time NBA Starting Five
With ten seasons, 799 combined games, and a championship, Brown brings a distinct perspective. He addressed his all-time top five in the same way.
“LeBron James
Kobe Bryant
Michael Jordan
Steph Curry
Bill Russell
Jaylen Brown revealed his ALL-STARTING FIVE with Ahmad Rashad 👀.”
LeBron James
Kobe Bryant
Michael Jordan
Steph Curry
Bill RussellJaylen Brown revealed his ALL-STARTING FIVE with Ahmad Rashad 👀 pic.twitter.com/3n663Jn7To
— NBA (@NBA) March 17, 2026
The first three names are widely expected. James, the all-time leading scorer with 43,180 points, had the longest NBA career, starting at 19 in 2003-04. Brown grew up watching him and later competed against him, forming mutual respect over the years.
James was also involved in a disagreement with Brown concerning a comment about Bronny’s basketball skills. They resolved their issues, according to The Athletic.
Jordan retired when Brown was in elementary school, but his influence endured. Although not the first with a signature shoe, Air Jordan became iconic in sports and culture. Nike still releases new models. Jordan bridged eras from the mid-1980s to the 2000s. Brown admires how Jordan turned basketball success into a brand. From Jordan, Brown transitioned to another legendary competitor: Kobe Bryant.
Kobe Bryant, seen as a fierce competitor, prioritized winning. After tearing his Achilles, he stayed on the court to finish free throws. His ‘Mamba Mentality’ shaped younger players. He died in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, four years after retiring.
Inspired by Bryant, Brown launched his own sneaker company to help players maximize their endorsement deals. Following Bryant, Brown highlighted Steph Curry’s transformative approach to the sport.
Curry differs from others on Brown’s list by changing the game with his range. He led the Warriors to four NBA titles. Brown sees Curry as the best point guard ever. To complete his lineup, Brown looked to Boston’s storied past by selecting Bill Russell.
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After a decade in Boston with many Hall of Famers, Brown chose only one: Bill Russell. Russell averaged 15.1 points and 22.5 rebounds over 13 seasons, winning 12 championships. Brown cites Russell as a mentor during his time in Boston. That resume could justify leaving out current teammates. How that omission will play in the locker room remains unknown.
Brown now plays with fellow Celtics champion Jayson Tatum, who joined in 2017. Together, they’ve led Boston to the playoffs every year and two finals appearances. In 2024, they brought Boston its first NBA title since 2008.
