NBA's Greatest Players in History: Dominique Wilkins

• Nine-time NBA All-Star selection
• Two-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion
• Seventh all-time leading scorer in NBA history at retirement
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Dominique Wilkins, nicknamed the 'Human Highlight Film', was a prolific scorer and electrifying dunker who dominated the NBA throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.

Overview

Dominique Wilkins burst onto the NBA scene in 1982 as a raw talent with explosive athleticism and a penchant for spectacular dunks. Over his 15-year career, primarily with the Atlanta Hawks, Wilkins evolved into one of the most dynamic scorers in league history. His high-flying style and scoring prowess made him a fan favourite and earned him the moniker "The Human Highlight Film".

Career snapshot

Wilkins was selected third overall by the Utah Jazz in the 1982 NBA draft but was immediately traded to the Atlanta Hawks. He quickly established himself as the Hawks' franchise player, leading the team in scoring for over a decade. Wilkins was a nine-time All-Star and won two NBA Slam Dunk Contests, cementing his status as one of the most exciting players of his era.

Playing style

Wilkins was renowned for his explosive leaping ability and powerful dunks, but his game was far more nuanced than just aerial acrobatics. He developed a reliable jump shot and could score from all areas of the court. His offensive arsenal included a deadly fadeaway jumper, quick first step, and the ability to finish through contact. While primarily known for his scoring, Wilkins was also a capable rebounder and improved his defense throughout his career.

Why Dominique Wilkins is on our list

Dominique Wilkins earns his place among the NBA's most dominant players due to his consistent offensive production and ability to elevate his team. He was a scoring machine, finishing in the top 10 in points per game for 11 consecutive seasons. Wilkins' career average of 24.8 points per game ranks 14th all-time, and he finished his career as the seventh-leading scorer in NBA history.

Beyond the statistics, Wilkins' impact on the game was immeasurable. He was a must-see attraction, capable of bringing fans to their feet with his electrifying play. His epic scoring duels, particularly with Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, are the stuff of NBA legend. Wilkins' ability to compete at the highest level against the greatest players of his era solidifies his status as one of the most dominant forces in NBA history.

Five Fast Facts

1. Led the NBA in scoring in 1985-86 with 30.3 points per game
2. Scored 50+ points in a game 13 times during his career
3. Finished second in MVP voting in 1986, behind only Larry Bird
4. Successfully returned from a torn Achilles tendon in 1992, a rare feat at the time
5. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006

Career Highlights Timeline

1982: Selected 3rd overall in the NBA draft, traded to Atlanta Hawks

1985: Won his first NBA Slam Dunk Contest

1986: Led the NBA in scoring with 30.3 points per game

1988: Engaged in legendary Game 7 duel with Larry Bird in Eastern Conference Semifinals

1990: Won his second NBA Slam Dunk Contest

1992: Suffered a torn Achilles tendon, successfully returned the following season

1994: Became the 10th player in NBA history to score 25,000 career points

2001: Had his jersey number 21 retired by the Atlanta Hawks

2006: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Dominique Wilkins' career was characterized by explosive scoring, highlight-reel dunks, and an unwavering competitive spirit. His ability to consistently produce at an elite level, even in the face of adversity, cements his legacy as one of the most dominant players in NBA history. While he may not have achieved the championship success of some of his contemporaries, Wilkins' impact on the game and his sustained excellence over a 15-year career make him a worthy inclusion on any list of the NBA's all-time greats.

NBA's Greatest of All-Time List: Click the player's name to read their profile