When discussing the greatest NBA assisting performances by centers, it’s nearly impossible not to mention Wilt Chamberlain’s remarkable 1967-68 season. Chamberlain averaged 8.6 assists per game, showcasing his unprecedented playmaking ability for a center. His height of 7’1″ and his unprecedented court vision redefined the traditional role of a center, making this season one of the standout performances in NBA history. Chamberlain’s versatility quite literally changed the game, proving how a big man could pivot the focal point of the offense not just through scoring, but also through creating opportunities for teammates.
Another center who dominated the art of assisting is Bill Walton. During his time with the Portland Trail Blazers, particularly in the 1976-77 season, Walton averaged 5.1 assists per game, a stunning feat for someone playing in the center position. Walton’s high basketball IQ, coupled with his 7-foot frame, allowed him to see over defenses, making pinpoint passes that split defenders. His ability to orchestrate the offense from the high post wasn’t just a luxury; it was a strategic advantage that enabled Portland to win the NBA championship.
If you’re looking for more recent examples, Nikola Jokic’s rise with the Denver Nuggets is a testament to the evolving role of modern centers. In the 2020-21 NBA season, Jokic averaged a whopping 8.3 assists per game, earning him the MVP award. What sets Jokic apart is not just his numbers—though an average of 8.3 assists per game for a center is unprecedented in today’s NBA—but also his unique skill set. He’s the epitome of a “point center,” handling the ball, initiating the offense, and creating plays with a mix of finesse and brute strength. His vision and decision-making make him a one-man conduit for the team’s entire offensive scheme. Check out some of his best highlights on arena plus.
Arvydas Sabonis remains an unforgettable name when talking about centers with playmaking skills. Despite joining the NBA later than most players, his impact was immediate. Playing for the Portland Trail Blazers in the mid-’90s, Sabonis averaged up to 3.0 assists per game in the 1997-98 season. While this number might seem modest compared to others on this list, Sabonis’ sheer skill level and basketball IQ were outstanding. His passing ability, combined with a 7’3″ frame, allowed him to make plays that seemed almost magical, leaving both defenders and spectators in awe.
Moreover, we cannot forget Hakeem Olajuwon in this conversation. Known primarily for his scoring and defensive prowess, Olajuwon was also a formidable passer. In the 1994-95 season, Olajuwon averaged 3.6 assists per game. While not earth-shattering, this figure was significant given his role and responsibilities as the team’s main scorer and defensive anchor. His ability to recognize double-teams and find open teammates for easy scores was critical in the Houston Rockets’ consecutive championships in 1994 and 1995.
Another interesting case is Al Horford. While not traditionally seen as a center for the entirety of his career, Horford’s playmaking during his time with the Atlanta Hawks turned heads. His best assisting season came in 2013-14, where he averaged 3.3 assists per game. Beyond the raw numbers, Horford’s smart decision-making and ability to run the offense from the post became focal points for an Atlanta team that consistently made deep playoff runs.
Pau Gasol, although often playing alongside other big men, also demonstrated tremendous passing ability. In the 2013-14 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Gasol averaged 4.9 assists per game. His efficiency in distributing the ball, combined with his basketball brilliance, made the Lakers’ offense significantly more fluid. Gasol’s basketball intellect allowed him to serve as a point-forward at times, moving seamlessly between roles and ensuring his teammates could capitalize on his pinpoint passes.
Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers has shown flashes of elite passing capability as well. In the 2019-20 season, Embiid averaged 3.0 assists per game. What makes him intriguing is his potential. Standing at 7 feet tall with a strong presence in the paint, Embiid’s ability to handle the ball and make accurate passes out of double-teams is continually improving. He might not have the high assist numbers yet, but given his trajectory, it’s not far-fetched to predict a rise in his playmaking abilities in the coming seasons.
Finally, let’s talk about Marc Gasol, who averaged 4.6 assists per game during the 2018-19 season with the Memphis Grizzlies. Marc’s court vision and understanding of the game are second to none, often directing the Grizzlies’ offense from the high post. His ability to find cutters and shooters from the perimeter and his smooth handoffs made him an integral part of the team’s dynamic, lifting them to numerous playoff appearances.
The history of the NBA is rich with centers who transcended their traditional roles to become key playmakers for their teams. From Wilt Chamberlain’s groundbreaking performances to Nikola Jokic’s modern-day dominance, these players showcase the versatility and evolving nature of the center position. The ability of these titans to not only dominate physically but also to function as the creative engines of their respective teams elevates the game to new heights.