The 2025–26 NBA season is putting a spotlight on a position once considered fading in importance — the center. Once dominated by physical post players who operated primarily inside the paint, today’s elite centers are more versatile than ever, contributing as scorers, facilitators, defenders, and even shooters. This year’s top 10 list of NBA centers reflects that evolution — a mix of superstars, rising talents, and reliable veterans who each influence the game in a unique way.
At the top of the mountain remains Nikola Jokić, whose continued dominance with the Denver Nuggets has set a new standard for what a modern big man can do. Coming off yet another MVP-caliber season, Jokić averaged nearly 30 points, over 12 rebounds, and more than 10 assists per game — making him the first center in league history to average a triple-double across an entire season. His court vision and efficiency as a playmaker remain unmatched. Whether he’s orchestrating the offense from the elbow or hitting step-back jumpers with ease, Jokić is not just the best center in the league — he’s one of the best players, period.
Right behind him is Victor Wembanyama, who has quickly become one of the most unique and terrifying defenders in the league. Standing 7’4″ with an incredible wingspan, Wembanyama affects nearly every shot in his vicinity. What separates him from past shot-blocking bigs is his agility and ability to defend guards on the perimeter. Offensively, his skill set is still developing, but with each passing game, he looks more comfortable shooting from deep, creating off the dribble, and facilitating. Injuries have been a slight concern, but if healthy, he’s the only center with the potential to challenge Jokić’s throne in the near future.
Joel Embiid, the 2023 MVP, continues to be a top-three force in the league when healthy. His scoring touch, footwork, and rim protection are elite, and he remains one of the most physically dominant players in the game. However, lingering injury issues and playoff inconsistencies have kept him from reaching his full potential in recent seasons. Even so, a fully engaged Embiid is nearly unstoppable on both ends of the court and remains a nightmare matchup for almost any defender.
Bam Adebayo anchors the Miami Heat on both ends of the floor and is arguably the most versatile defender at the position. He can guard all five positions, excels in switching defensive schemes, and has become a dependable scorer and passer in the half-court offense. While he doesn’t put up the raw stats of others on this list, his impact on winning and his ability to perform in clutch situations elevate him into the top tier.
Alperen Şengün continues his rise as one of the league’s most creative and productive young bigs. His footwork, passing ability, and soft touch around the rim have earned him comparisons to some of the game’s greatest offensive centers. He has improved defensively and added range to his jump shot, making him a complete threat. As he matures, Şengün looks poised to become a perennial All-Star and possibly even a franchise centerpiece.
Rudy Gobert is a throwback to traditional big men in some ways, but his defensive impact is still elite. He remains one of the best rim protectors and rebounders in the league. While he’s limited offensively, often relying on lobs and put-backs, his defensive presence alone keeps him among the top 10. Gobert has embraced his role, and teams still struggle to score efficiently when he’s patrolling the paint.
Karl-Anthony Towns brings a rare offensive package with his ability to shoot from deep and score at all three levels. While he’s often criticized for his defense and inconsistency, his shooting touch as a seven-footer creates massive spacing advantages. When locked in, he’s capable of dropping 30 points on any night, and his pairing with more traditional bigs has allowed him to flourish more as a stretch-5 or 4 hybrid.
Nikola Vucević may not make as many highlight reels as others, but he is a steady and dependable force in the paint. Known for his scoring touch, rebounding, and pick-and-pop ability, Vucević has been a model of consistency. He continues to average near double-doubles every season and plays a key leadership role on a rebuilding Bulls squad. His basketball IQ and unselfishness make him a valuable presence in any locker room.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is one of the best shot blockers in the league and was the Defensive Player of the Year just a couple of seasons ago. His ability to space the floor and hit threes gives him added value offensively, although foul trouble and rebounding inconsistencies still limit his overall impact. That said, few centers can match his agility and rim protection. If he can stay healthy and refine his decision-making, he could climb higher on this list in future seasons.
Rounding out the top 10 is Deandre Ayton. Often criticized for his lack of aggressiveness, Ayton remains a physically gifted big with a smooth mid-range jumper and solid rebounding. After being traded and given more freedom in a new system, he showed flashes of dominance. If he continues to build confidence and assertiveness, he has the tools to return to All-Star form.
Together, these ten centers reflect the diversity of roles and skill sets in today’s NBA. Some are playmakers, some are rim protectors, others are shooters — but all are central to their team’s identity. Whether it’s a superstar like Jokić redefining the position or a rising talent like Wembanyama pushing the boundaries of possibility, the center spot is no longer a relic of the past — it’s a position that is evolving and thriving in the modern game.
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