The 15 most unstoppable NBA centers of all time, ranked

Shaquille O'neal
Shaquille O'neal / G Fiume/GettyImages
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11. Willis Reed

Willis Reed, a name that resonates with basketball greatness, is a true icon of the sport. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches tall, Reed possessed a unique combination of skill, strength, and determination, making him a force to be reckoned with on the court. He played his entire NBA career with the New York Knicks, from 1964-1974, and his impact on the team and the game itself cannot be overstated. Reed was a two-time NBA champion, winning titles with the Knicks in 1970 and 1973. He was dominant in the paint and known for his fierce rebounding and tenacious defense.

However, it was during the 1970 NBA Finals that Willis Reed etched his name into basketball folklore. In the pivotal Game 7 against the Los Angeles Lakers, Reed, plagued by a severe thigh injury, limped onto the court during warm-ups, sending shockwaves through Madison Square Garden. Seeing their injured captain rallying his team inspired the Knicks and demoralized their opponents. Reed managed to play a limited but impactful role in the game, scoring the first two baskets and setting the tone for the Knicks' eventual victory. His bravery and determination in the face of adversity have become the stuff of legend, and Reed remains an enduring symbol of resilience and leadership in sports.