Dive into the NBA’s highest usage rate leaders of all time, where ball dominance meets unparalleled offensive prowess.

Certain players have dominated the ball and shouldered the offensive load like no other. From Michael Jordan’s relentless scoring to Russell Westbrook’s triple-double machine, these superstars have consistently boasted the highest usage rates, and we have the 15 players with the highest usage rates of all time.

What Is Usage Rate?

Usage rate in professional basketball quantifies a player’s involvement in their team’s offensive possessions. It’s calculated by taking the player’s field goal attempts, free throw attempts, and turnovers, and then dividing that total by the team’s total possessions. Essentially, it measures the percentage of team plays a player is directly involved in while on the court, offering insight into their offensive impact and involvement.

1. Michael Jordan – 33.26%

Career Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Michael Jordan’s usage rate of 33.26% stands as a testament to his unparalleled offensive prowess and dominance during his illustrious NBA career. Delving deep into the numbers, Jordan’s usage rate is even more impressive considering his efficiency. He retired with a career shooting percentage of 49.7% from the field, showcasing his ability to score efficiently despite being the focal point of opposing defenses.

Additionally, Jordan’s usage rate remained consistently high throughout his career, even during his later years with the Washington Wizards, underscoring his enduring offensive impact. Known for his killer instinct and unparalleled competitiveness, Jordan was often entrusted with the ball in key situations, and more often than not, he delivered. His six NBA Championships, five MVP awards, and numerous game-winning shots stand as a testament to his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

2. Kobe Bryant – 31.85%

Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

When analyzing Kobe Bryant’s usage rate, one cannot overlook his scoring prowess and offensive versatility. Bryant was known for his footwork, impeccable mid-range game, and ability to score from anywhere on the court. His career-high 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006 serves as a testament to his scoring ability and willingness to take over games offensively. Despite facing double and triple teams throughout his career, Bryant’s usage rate remained consistently high, highlighting his ability to maintain his offensive production despite facing intense defensive pressure.

Similar to Jordan, Bryant’s usage rate can also be attributed to his clutch performances and ability to rise to the occasion in pivotal moments. Bryant thrived under pressure and was often entrusted with the ball in crunch time. His numerous game-winning shots and five NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers are a testament to his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.

3. Allen Iverson – 31.83%

Career Stats: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Standing at just 6 feet tall, Allen Iverson defied the odds and became one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. His quickness, ball-handling skills, and ability to finish at the rim against bigger defenders made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Iverson’s iconic 48-point performance against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the 2001 NBA Finals showcases his ability to dominate and take over games offensively.

Iverson’s high usage rate can also be attributed to his ball-handling and playmaking skills. Despite being primarily known as a scorer, Iverson was also a gifted passer (6.2 APG) and had a knack for finding open teammates. Furthermore, Iverson’s usage rate reflects his relentless work ethic, competitiveness, and willingness to take on the responsibility of being the focal point of his team’s offense. Despite facing double and triple teams on a nightly basis, Iverson’s usage rate remained consistently high throughout his career.

4. Russell Westbrook – 31.64%

Career Stats: 21.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Russell Westbrook’s usage rate of 31.64% stands as a testament to his relentless energy, versatility, and impact on the game as a triple-double machine. In many ways, Westbrook has redefined the point guard position with his unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities. Westbrook’s aggressive playing style has made him a constant threat on the offensive end. His ability to finish through contact and draw fouls has allowed him to maintain a high level of scoring production despite facing intense defensive pressure.

Westbrook’s high usage rate can also be attributed to his playmaking skills and ability to create opportunities for his teammates. With a career average of 8.2 assists per game, Westbrook has showcased his ability to distribute the ball effectively and elevate the play of those around him. His unique playing style, versatility, and ability to fill up the stat sheet in multiple categories justify his status as one of the most dynamic and influential players in the NBA with the ball in his hands regardless of his inefficiencies (43.8% FG, 30.4% 3-PT FG, 4.0 TOV) that appear on the stat sheet.

5. Donovan Mitchell – 31.60%

Career Stats: 24.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Since entering the league, Donovan Mitchell has showcased a knack for creating his own shot, whether it’s driving to the basket, pulling up from mid-range, or knocking down three-pointers. His explosive first step, ball-handling skills, and ability to finish through contact have made him a constant threat on the offensive end. Mitchell became the fastest player in Utah Jazz history to reach 5,000 career points, highlighting his scoring prowess and impact on the team’s offense.

Furthermore, Mitchell’s high usage rate reflects his leadership qualities, competitive spirit, and willingness to take on the responsibility of being the go-to scorer for his team. His ability to elevate his game in clutch situations, his work ethic, and his commitment to improving his all-around game have endeared him to his teammates and made him a fan favorite in Utah and he is now doing the same for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

6. LeBron James – 31.55%

Career Stats: 27.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG

LeBron James’ usage rate of 31.55% underscores his unmatched versatility, dominance, and impact on both ends of the floor throughout his legendary NBA career. With career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game, James has consistently filled up the stat sheet and showcased his ability to control the game in multiple facets.

James’ high usage rate is due to his unique blend of scoring, playmaking, and basketball IQ. Standing at 6’9″ and possessing exceptional athleticism and court vision, James can score from anywhere on the court, whether it’s driving to the basket, posting up, or knocking down perimeter shots. His career-high 58.9% true shooting percentage, which takes into account two-pointers, three-pointers, and free throws, highlights his efficiency and scoring prowess despite the high volume of shots he takes.

In addition to his scoring ability, James’ high usage rate can also be attributed to his playmaking skills and ability to elevate his teammates’ performances. Known for his unselfishness and ability to make the right play, James has consistently ranked among the league leaders in assists throughout his career. His career-high 10.2 assists per game during the 2019-20 season with the Los Angeles Lakers showcases his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and set the tone for the team’s offense.

7. Dwyane Wade – 31.44%

Career Stats: 22.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Known for his acrobatic finishes, crafty footwork, and mid-range game, Dwyane Wade was a nightmare for opposing defenses. His career-high 30.2 points per game during the 2008-09 season demonstrates his scoring prowess and ability to take over games offensively. Despite facing double teams and defensive schemes designed to stop him, Wade consistently found ways to score and create opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Wade carried the Miami Heat franchise for seven straight seasons until LeBron James and Chris Bosh came along, and there was a ton of pressure on the shooting guard to carry the offense and also close games as required. Averaging 5.4 assists per game over his career, Wade also had a responsibility to create shots for his teammates.

8. DeMarcus Cousins – 31.41%

Career Stats: 19.6 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 BPG

DeMarcus Cousins’ high usage rate was his ability to score from anywhere on the court. Standing at 6’10” and weighing over 270 pounds, Cousins possessed a rare combination of strength, agility, and shooting touch that made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. His career-high 27.0 points per game during the 2016-17 season with the Sacramento Kings underscores his scoring prowess and ability to carry the offensive load for his team.

In addition to his scoring ability, Cousins’ high usage rate can also be attributed to his playmaking skills and court vision. Despite being a big man, Cousins was an excellent passer with a keen understanding of the game. Despite injuries derailing his career and preventing him from reaching his full potential, the former No. 5 overall pick was one of the most dominant big men of his generation.

9. George Gervin – 30.68%

Career Stats: 26.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Known as the “Iceman,” Hall of Famer George Gervin had a silky-smooth jump shot, excellent footwork, and an uncanny ability to create space and get his shot off against any defender. His career-high 33.1 points per game during the 1979-80 season with the San Antonio Spurs showcases his scoring ability and knack for putting the ball in the basket.

In addition to his scoring ability, Gervin’s high usage rate also reflects his versatility and offensive creativity. Despite being primarily known as a scorer, Gervin was also a capable playmaker and had a knack for finding open teammates. His ability to read defenses, make the right pass, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates added another dimension to his offensive game which is why the four-time scoring champion was given the freedom to dominate the ball.

10. Dominique Wilkins – 30.27%

Career Stats: 24.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Dominique Wilkins’ usage rate of 30.27% is a testament to his electrifying athleticism, scoring prowess, and ability to captivate audiences with his high-flying dunks and dynamic offensive play. With career averages of 24.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, Wilkins solidified his legacy as one of the most exciting and dominant scorers in NBA history.

The “Human Highlight Film” was a prolific scorer who could score from anywhere on the court. His career-high 30.3 points per game during the 1985-86 season with the Atlanta Hawks showcases his scoring ability and ability to carry the offensive load for his team. Despite suffering a torn Achilles tendon in 1992, Wilkins bounced back and continued to perform at a high level and never let up on his usage rate.

11. Devin Booker – 30.25%

Career Stats: 24.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

A primary offensive force since his rookie season with the Phoenix Suns, Devin Booker is a constant threat to opposing defenses. His career-high 70-point outburst against the Boston Celtics in 2017 is a testament to his scoring prowess and ability to take over games offensively.

In addition to his scoring ability, Booker’s high usage rate also reflects his playmaking skills and ability to create opportunities for his teammates. Despite being primarily known as a scorer, Booker has shown growth as a facilitator and has improved his decision-making and passing ability over the years. Playing alongside Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal should see a decline in Booker’s usage rate and improve his overall efficiency as a player.

12. Kevin Durant – 30.20%

Career Stats: 27.3 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Standing at 6’10” with a unique blend of size, athleticism, and shooting ability, Kevin Durant is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. Durant’s efficiency, highlighted by his career 50.1% shooting from the field and 38.7% from three-point range, further accentuates his scoring dominance. The four-time scoring champion is undoubtedly one of the best scorers of all time, and he should probably have a higher usage rate as a result.

Durant always played the game the right way and let his teammates, such as Russell Westbrook and Stephen Curry, shine through. The superstar forward should probably rank among the top five in usage rate considering his talents but his unselfishness on the court leaves him “only” at 12th which could be another testament to his greatness as an individual star.

13. Carmelo Anthony – 29.65%

Career Stats: 22.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Carmelo Anthony’s high usage rate can be attributed to his elite scoring prowess and ability to score from all three levels on the court, along with his incredible drive to take every shot in the offense whenever possible. Known for his smooth shooting stroke, footwork in the post, and ability to create space for his shot, Anthony is a constant scoring threat who can take over a game at any moment.

His career-high 28.9 points per game during the 2006-07 season with the Denver Nuggets showcases his scoring ability and knack for putting the ball in the basket. Even when Anthony is one of the best scorers of his generation, Anthony’s usage rate might be a little high considering his assists were so low and he was a heavy chucker when it came to creating shots for himself.

14. Shaquille O’Neal – 29.48%

Career Stats: 23.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.3 BPG

Shaquille O’Neal’s usage rate of 29.48% reflects his dominant presence, unparalleled physicality, and impact as one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. With career averages of 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, Shaq solidified his legacy as a Hall of Famer and one of the most formidable forces to ever play the game.

Shaq’s high usage rate can be attributed to his sheer size, strength, and ability to overpower opponents in the paint. Standing at 7’1″ and weighing over 300 pounds during his prime, Shaq was virtually unstoppable in the post. His career field goal percentage of 58.2% is a testament to his efficiency and effectiveness as a scorer. Quite frankly, Shaq probably should have had a higher usage rate although playing alongside Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade affected that.

15. James Harden – 29.46%

Career Stats: 24.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Surprisingly, James Harden is only 15th in career usage rate. Harden has an image that he handles the ball every possession and is an entire offensive system on his own, but he might not be on the level of stars above him. Harden started his career as a bench player for the first three years of his career with the Thunder, and moving to the Rockets truly unleashed his potential.

Harden’s run with Houston was extraordinary, winning three scoring titles and dominating defenses between 2012-13 and 2018-19. Harden’s usage rate might have taken further hits after leaving Houston because he has shared the court with a vast array of stars including Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Joel Embiid, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George since then. Still, Harden’s usage rate of just under 29.5% is impressive considering the player’s history.