10 Greatest NBA Super Teams That Dominated the League
The NBA has seen some amazing teams rise to greatness over the years. These super teams, filled with Hall of Fame players, have not only dominated the league but also changed how the game is played. Some of these squads set records and won championships, leaving their opponents in the dust. So, what makes a super team truly special? Is it the star players, their on-court chemistry, or their ability to shine under pressure? In this look back, we’ll explore the greatest NBA super teams ever.
Chicago Bulls (1995-1996)
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Dominance? Check. Swagger? Double check. Michael Jordan and the Bulls didn’t just win 72 games in the 1995-96 season—they redefined excellence. With Scottie Pippen locking down defenders and Dennis Rodman grabbing rebounds like his life depended on it, they bullied their way to another championship. Nobody dared to stand in their way, and if they did, they regretted it.
Los Angeles Lakers (1980s)
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“Showtime” wasn’t just a nickname; it was a way of life for these Lakers. Magic Johnson ran the offense like a symphony conductor, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar brought the skyhook, and James Worthy added the finishing touches. Five championships later, they proved they were indeed iconic.
Boston Celtics (1980s)
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Larry Bird didn’t look like a typical NBA star, but he played like one. With Kevin McHale’s post moves and Robert Parish’s steady presence, the Celtics formed a juggernaut that took home three titles. They played basketball like a chess match. And no, they weren’t going to let the Lakers have all the fun.
Detroit Pistons (1989-1990)
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If you played against the “Bad Boys,” you probably left with bruises—and a loss. Isiah Thomas scored the chaos, Joe Dumars provided the finesse, and Dennis Rodman did, well, Dennis Rodman things. They didn’t care about style points. They just wanted to win. After two championships, their gritty approach made them unforgettable.
Golden State Warriors (2016-2019)
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This team shot threes like other teams shot layups. Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Kevin Durant turned every game into a shooting clinic. Opponents tried to keep up but usually ended up staring at the scoreboard, wondering what just happened.
Miami Heat (2010-2014)
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When LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh teamed up, the league collectively sighed, “Here we go.” They promised championships, and they delivered. Between alley-oops and highlight reels, they made basketball in Miami look like an art form. And yes, “The Decision” was worth it.
San Antonio Spurs (1999-2014)
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If the Warriors were a firework show, the Spurs were a slow-cooked meal. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili played the game with precision, patience, and plenty of championships to show for it. They didn’t need flash—they had fundamentals.
Cleveland Cavaliers (2016)
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LeBron James returned home with a mission, which was to bring a championship to Cleveland. And mission accomplished! Alongside Kyrie Irving’s clutch shooting and Kevin Love’s hustle, the Cavs pulled off the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history, taking down the 73-win Warriors. Cleveland fans are probably still celebrating.
Boston Celtics (2007-2008)
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Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen didn’t form a “Big Three” to make friends. They were determined to win. Their defense was suffocating, and their chemistry clicked almost immediately. The result? A dominant playoff run that ended with a championship and Garnett’s iconic “Anything is possible!” declaration.
Los Angeles Lakers (1999-2002)
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Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal were not the best of buddies, but on the court, they were a nightmare for everyone else. With Phil Jackson steering the ship, they cruised to three straight championships. Shaq dunked everything in sight, and Kobe scored at will.
Philadelphia 76ers (1982-1983)
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Julius Erving brought the flair, and Moses Malone brought the muscle. Together, they led the 76ers to one of the most dominant playoff runs ever. Malone’s prediction of “fo’-fo’-fo’” (a playoff sweep) didn’t fully happen, but they came close. When they were on, nobody else had a chance.
Dallas Mavericks (2011)
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Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks weren’t supposed to beat LeBron’s Heat, but someone forgot to tell them. Dirk’s clutch performances, combined with Jason Kidd’s leadership and Tyson Chandler’s defense, stunned Miami in the Finals. It wasn’t flashy, but it was a masterpiece in grit and execution.
Chicago Bulls (1991-1993)
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Before the Bulls’ 72-win season, they were already a dynasty in the making. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen led the team to their first three championships, setting the tone for the ’90s. They were so good that they overwhelmed opponents with intensity and focus.
New York Knicks (1970s)
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Willis Reed limping onto the court in Game 7 of the 1970 Finals might be the most iconic moment in Knicks history. With Walt Frazier running the offense and Dave DeBusschere locking down opponents, they captured two titles. The Knicks played smart, tough basketball, and New York loved them for it.
Houston Rockets (1994-1995)
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With Michael Jordan temporarily out of the picture, Hakeem Olajuwon and the Rockets seized their moment. Olajuwon’s footwork and defense were unmatched, and the team captured back-to-back titles. Clyde Drexler joined for the second run, adding more firepower to an already dangerous squad.