Isaiah Hartenstein, now with the Oklahoma City Thunder, recently revealed his top five passing big men in NBA history.
In an interview on Ur. Perspective, Hartenstein placed reigning MVP Nikola Jokic at the top of his list.
“Nikola Jokic, he’s definitely on his own,” Hartenstein said, acknowledging the Denver Nuggets star’s exceptional playmaking ability, via HoopsHype.
He then named Lithuanian legend Arvydas Sabonis, highlighting the elder Sabonis’ passing skills despite joining the NBA late in his career.
“The funny thing with his dad is that he came over so late, but if he would have come earlier… He could pass the sh*t out of the ball,” Hartenstein noted.
Next on his list was Andrew Bogut, specifically for the Australian’s contribution to the Golden State Warriors’ ball movement during their championship runs.
“Andrew Bogut when he was with the Golden State Warriors was good,” Hartenstein added, showing appreciation for the former first overall pick.
Hartenstein also made sure to include Draymond Green, recognizing Green’s unique ability to facilitate from the power forward position.
“Draymond Green, you got to put in there,” he said, acknowledging Green’s vital role in the Warriors’ system.
Finally, Hartenstein rounded out his list with Domantas Sabonis, Arvydas Sabonis’ son, noting that he watches the Sacramento Kings star frequently.
“I’m just gonna put Domantas Sabonis in there, I watch him a lot too,” Hartenstein explained, referencing the younger Sabonis’ impressive all-around play.
Though he listed his top five, Hartenstein admitted that he might have overlooked some names, saying, “I think I’m missing somebody…”
His selections covered a mix of past and present players, combining Jokic and the younger Sabonis with older legends like Arvydas Sabonis.
Jokic has redefined what it means to be a passing big man in today’s NBA, leading the Nuggets with his elite court vision and decision-making.
Arvydas Sabonis is remembered for his remarkable passing despite his delayed arrival to the NBA in the 1990s.
Bogut’s passing in Steve Kerr’s system was essential to Golden State’s offensive flow, particularly in the early stages of their dynasty.
Green has long been known for his basketball IQ, orchestrating plays from the forward spot as the Warriors’ offensive engine.
Domantas Sabonis, like his father, has developed into one of the best passing bigs in the league, becoming a focal point for the Kings.
