The 2000s displayed some of the slowest, most methodical era of basketball. The league hit a low of possessions per game throughout the decade which resulted in less scoring and fewer statistics in general. It was also dominated by players who decided to forgo college and come into the league straight out of high school. This included Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Tracy McGrady, Amare Stoudemire, and Jermaine O’Neal.

The 2000s started with a three peat from the Kobe-Shaq Lakers. Other role players included Glen Rice, Derek Fisher, and Robert Horry. There was a lot of tension between Kobe and Shaq which resulted in O’Neal leaving for the Heat where he eventually won a title with Dwyane Wade. Kobe was then the man in LA where he eventually won two titles and had some great battles with the Celtics who starred Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Rajon Rondo. Another dynasty from this decade was the Duncan led Spurs. They won three titles throughout this time with the help of Tony Parker, David Robinson, Manu Ginobili, and legendary coach, Gregg Popovich. More stars include Steve Nash, Allen Iverson, Jason Kidd, and Dirk Nowitzki.