NBA's Greatest Players in History: Rick Barry

• 8-time All-Star in both ABA and NBA
• Led Warriors to 1975 NBA Championship
• One of the most prolific scorers in basketball history
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Rick Barry was a revolutionary scorer and passer, dominating in both the ABA and NBA. His unorthodox free-throw technique and fierce competitiveness made him one of basketball's most iconic figures.

Career snapshot

Rick Barry's 15-year professional career spanned both the ABA and NBA, establishing him as one of the most versatile and prolific scorers in basketball history. Drafted by the San Francisco Warriors in 1965, Barry quickly became a sensation, leading the NBA in scoring in just his second season with a staggering 35.6 points per game.

After a brief but impactful stint in the ABA, where he continued to showcase his scoring prowess, Barry returned to the NBA and the Warriors (now in Golden State) in 1972. He would go on to lead the team to an NBA championship in 1975, cementing his legacy as one of the game's all-time greats.

Playing style

Barry's playing style was characterised by his exceptional shooting ability, particularly from the free-throw line where he famously employed an underhanded "granny" shot technique. This unorthodox method proved incredibly effective, with Barry retiring as the most accurate free-throw shooter in NBA history at the time.

Beyond his shooting, Barry was an excellent passer and anticipator of play. His court vision and ability to thread passes through tight spaces made him one of the best passing forwards in NBA history. As his career progressed and injuries limited his explosiveness, Barry adapted his game to become more of a perimeter threat, showcasing his versatility and basketball IQ.

Why Rick Barry is on our list

Rick Barry's inclusion on the list of most dominant NBA players is justified by his remarkable scoring ability, versatility, and impact on the game. His scoring average of 23.2 points per game over his career ranks him among the all-time greats, and his ability to excel in both the ABA and NBA demonstrates his adaptability and skill.

Barry's leadership in guiding the underdog Golden State Warriors to the 1975 NBA championship further cements his legacy. His performance in that playoff run, including a 36-point game to force a Game 7 in the Western Conference Finals and averaging 29.5 points per game in the NBA Finals, showcases his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most.

Moreover, Barry's influence extended beyond his on-court performances. His unique free-throw technique, while often ridiculed, was incredibly effective and highlighted his willingness to prioritise results over conventional wisdom. This maverick approach to the game, combined with his fierce competitiveness, made Barry a transformative figure in basketball history.

Five Fast Facts

1. Barry is the only player to lead the NCAA, ABA, and NBA in scoring
2. He was named to 12 All-Star teams across both the ABA and NBA
3. Barry's career free-throw percentage of 89.3% ranks him among the top 10 all-time
4. He is one of few players to have his number retired by two different franchises (Warriors and Heat)
5. Barry's sons Brent and Jon also played in the NBA, making them one of the league's most successful father-son combinations

Career Highlights

1965: Drafted 2nd overall by San Francisco Warriors
1966: Named NBA Rookie of the Year
1967: Led NBA in scoring with 35.6 points per game
1969: Won ABA championship with Oakland Oaks
1975: Led Golden State Warriors to NBA championship, named Finals MVP
1980: Retired from professional basketball
1987: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Rick Barry's career stands as a testament to his exceptional skill, adaptability, and impact on the game of basketball. From his scoring prowess to his championship leadership, Barry's place among the most dominant players in NBA history is well-deserved and undisputed.

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