Thinking about the top rebounders in NBA history, guards usually don’t come to mind. Yet, through grit and exceptional athleticism, several guards have managed to etch their names into the rebounding records. Russell Westbrook, for instance, made headlines with his relentless drive, pulling down an astonishing 11.1 rebounds per game during his MVP season in 2016-2017. That’s a gigantic number for someone traditionally expected to lead primarily in assists and scoring.
When you think of the term “rebounding,” big men like Dennis Rodman or Wilt Chamberlain usually pop into your head. However, there’s a special appreciation for guards who mix it up in the paint. Westbrook grabbed boards like a power forward, despite standing only 6’3″. This wasn’t an isolated event either; considering his career average stands around 7.2 rebounds per game, it’s a testament to his incredible versatility and tenacity.
Another name that deserves mention is Oscar Robertson. The “Big O” was way ahead of his time. He averaged 7.5 rebounds per game over his career, racking up triple-doubles before they were even fashionable. During the 1961-1962 season, he averaged a triple-double, which includes 12.5 rebounds per game. That’s not just grabbing boards; that’s dominating the game’s most physical aspect while also being the team’s primary playmaker.
Jason Kidd is another who fits into this rare category. Over his stellar 19-year career, he averaged 6.3 rebounds per game. Kidd’s rebounding numbers might seem modest compared to Westbrook’s peak seasons, but his ability to control the boards was crucial for any team’s fast break offense. This aligns perfectly with the modern NBA’s emphasis on pace and space, yet Kidd was doing it back in the early 2000s.
It’s not just legendary names from the past who contribute to this list. Take Marcus Smart for current context. In his 2021-2022 season with the Boston Celtics, Smart brought in 4.1 rebounds per game, crucial for a team known for its defensive grit. Considering his 6’4″ frame, that’s pretty substantial. He serves as a modern example of how guards can influence the game beyond just scoring and assists.
And how could I forget Dwyane Wade? The Miami Heat legend, standing at 6’4″, had a career average of 4.7 rebounds per game. During his prime, from 2006-2010, Wade averaged around 5.2 rebounds. In the 2008-2009 season, he bumped it up to 5.0 rebounds per game. For a guard, especially one known for his slashing style, that’s a significant contribution to his team’s overall defense and transition offense.
Michael Jordan, the GOAT, is another name worth mentioning. Over his illustrious career, he averaged 6.2 rebounds per game. It might not seem a lot compared to his scoring records, but taking into account his dual role as both a leading scorer and a rebounder, it speaks enormous volumes about his all-around capabilities. During the 1988-1989 season, he averaged 8.0 rebounds, an insane number for a guard.
For those that follow modern analytics, teams increasingly benefit from guards who can rebound. In an era where “positionless” basketball thrives, having guards like James Harden, who averaged 6.6 rebounds per game in the 2018-2019 season, offers a tactical advantage. It disrupts traditional roles and forces opponents to adjust strategies mid-game, showing the evolving dynamics of basketball. Harden’s 6’5″ frame gives him just enough size to contest crucial rebounds, often converting these opportunities into quick transition points.
These historical and contemporary examples showcase why rebounding guards are often the unsung heroes of their teams. They symbolize the unyielding effort and physicality necessary at any level of competition. For fans and enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive list of these dynamic players, arena plus is your go-to resource for the latest updates and in-depth analyses.