NBA Legends: Who Are the Top 10 Oldest MVPs in NBA History?

By Jocelyn Alano July 16, 2024 13:23

credit. Vince Bucci/AFP/Getty Images

It is not for nothing that they say age is nothing but a number, and in the basketball community, this is especially true for one who has churned out the prestigious title of Most Valuable Player in the NBA past the age of 28. Here is the full rundown of the top 10 oldest MVPs in NBA history, their remarkable record, and career span having a lasting effect on the game.

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1. Wilt Chamberlain (1966-67) - Age: 30

Win Shares (Season Rank): 21.9 (No. 1)
Stats: 24.1 points, 24.2 rebounds, 7.8 assists, 68.3/N/A/44.1 shooting splits

Wilt Chamberlain, a true legend of the game, captured his MVP honor at the age of 30, showcasing remarkable dominance on the court. His exceptional win shares and all-around statistics solidify his place as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

2. Michael Jordan (1995-96) - Age: 32

Win Shares (Season Rank): 20.4 (No. 1)
Stats: 30.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 49.5/42.7/83.4 shooting splits

Michael Jordan, often regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, secured an MVP award at the age of 32. His unparalleled scoring ability and leadership skills propelled him to this remarkable achievement.

3. Karl Malone (1998-99) - Age: 35

Win Shares (Season Rank): 16.7 (No. 2)
Stats: 27.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 55.0/.000/75.5 shooting splits

Karl Malone's resilience and exceptional performance at the age of 35 earned him the MVP title, showcasing his enduring impact on the game even in the latter stages of his career.

4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1979-80) - Age: 32

Win Shares (Season Rank): 16.9 (No. 2)
Stats: 24.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 60.2/N/A/76.0 shooting splits

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's MVP win at the age of 32 highlighted his enduring influence on the court, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant and skilled centers in NBA history.

5. Hakeem Olajuwon (1993-94) - Age: 31

Win Shares (Season Rank): 17.4 (No. 2)
Stats: 27.3 points, 11.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 52.8/.200/71.7 shooting splits

Hakeem Olajuwon's MVP performance at the age of 31 exemplified his exceptional versatility and impact, establishing him as one of the premier centers of his era.

6. Steve Nash (2005-06) - Age: 31

Win Shares (Season Rank): 13.3 (No. 3)
Stats: 18.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 10.5 assists, 51.2/43.9/92.1 shooting splits2

Steve Nash's back-to-back MVP wins at the age of 31 showcased his exceptional playmaking and shooting abilities, solidifying his status as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

7. LeBron James (2023-24) - Age: 39

Win Shares (Season Rank): 18.7 (No. 1)
Stats: 26.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 54.7/36.8/78.5 shooting splits

LeBron James defied age and continued to dominate the game, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to win an MVP award at the age of 39, a testament to his unparalleled skill, work ethic, and dedication to the sport.

8. Julius Erving (1980-81) - Age: 31

Win Shares (Season Rank): 9.7 (No. 12)
Stats: 24.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 52.0/N/A/79.2 shooting splits

Julius Erving's MVP win at the age of 31 showcased his flair and impact on the game, solidifying his status as one of the most electrifying and influential players in NBA history.

9. Dirk Nowitzki (2006-07) - Age: 28

Win Shares (Season Rank): 13.6 (No. 4)
Stats: 24.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 50.2/41.6/90.4 shooting splits

Dirk Nowitzki's MVP win at the age of 28 highlighted his exceptional shooting and scoring prowess, establishing him as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.

10. Larry Bird (1985-86) - Age: 29

Win Shares (Season Rank): 15.7 (No. 1)
Stats: 25.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 49.6/40.0/88.2 shooting splits

Larry Bird's MVP win at the age of 29 showcased his exceptional scoring and playmaking abilities, solidifying his status as one of the most iconic and influential players in NBA history.

In conclusion, these oldest MVPs in NBA history have not only defied the conventional wisdom of aging in professional sports but have also left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and awe basketball enthusiasts worldwide. Their unparalleled skill, resilience, and enduring impact on the game will forever be etched in the annals of basketball history.