| 1 | Hakeem Olajuwon Center, Houston Rockets (1984–2001) Widely regarded as the NBA's all-time blocks leader with 3,830 career blocks, 'Hakeem The Dream' was a two-time NBA champion, league MVP, and two-time Defensive Player of the Year. He is the only player in NBA history to record more than 200 blocks and 200 steals in the same season, and the all-time leader in 5x5 games. |
| 2 | Dikembe Mutombo Center, Denver Nuggets (1991–1996) Standing second all-time with 3,289 blocks, Dikembe Mutombo was a dominant defensive force known for his iconic finger wag. He earned a record-tying four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards and was an 8-time All-Star. |
| 3 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Center, Milwaukee Bucks (1969–1973) A legendary center with 3,189 recorded blocks, Abdul-Jabbar's total is particularly impressive as blocks were not officially tracked until his fifth NBA season in 1973-74. He is also the NBA's all-time leading scorer and a six-time NBA champion. |
| 4 | Mark Eaton Center, Utah Jazz (1982–1993) A towering defensive specialist for the Utah Jazz, Mark Eaton accumulated 3,064 blocks and holds the NBA records for single-season blocks (456) and career blocked shots per game average (3.5). He was a two-time Defensive Player of the Year. |
| 5 | Tim Duncan Power Forward/Center, San Antonio Spurs (1997–2016) Known as 'The Big Fundamental,' Tim Duncan amassed 3,020 blocks as a cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs dynasty. A five-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, he is celebrated for his consistent defensive presence and fundamental skills. |
| 6 | David Robinson Center, San Antonio Spurs (1989–2003) The 'Admiral' recorded 2,954 blocks over his career, complementing his exceptional offensive game. A two-time NBA champion and former MVP, Robinson also won a Defensive Player of the Year award in 1992. |
| 7 | Patrick Ewing Center, New York Knicks (1985–2000) A dominant center for the New York Knicks, Patrick Ewing compiled 2,894 blocks with his powerful inside presence. An 11-time All-Star, he led the Knicks to the NBA Finals in 1994. |
| 8 | Shaquille O'Neal Center, Orlando Magic (1992–1996) One of the most dominant players in NBA history, Shaquille O'Neal registered 2,732 blocks over his illustrious career. A four-time NBA champion and three-time Finals MVP, 'Shaq' was a formidable force on both ends of the court. |
| 9 | Tree Rollins Center, Atlanta Hawks (1977–1984) Tree Rollins was a formidable shot-blocker throughout his career, accumulating 2,542 blocks. He was a consistent defensive anchor for the Atlanta Hawks and known for his intimidating presence in the paint. |
| 10 | Robert Parish Center, Golden State Warriors (1976–1980) Nicknamed 'The Chief,' Robert Parish played an NBA-record 21 seasons and collected 2,361 blocks. A four-time NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, he was known for his durability and consistent defense. |
| 11 | Alonzo Mourning Center, Charlotte Hornets (1992–1995) Alonzo Mourning, a fierce competitor, recorded 2,356 blocks in his career. A two-time Defensive Player of the Year, he made a remarkable comeback after a kidney transplant to win an NBA championship with the Miami Heat in 2006. |
| 12 | Marcus Camby Center/Power Forward, Toronto Raptors (1996–1998) A versatile big man, Marcus Camby amassed 2,331 blocks and won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2007. He led the league in blocks four times, showcasing his exceptional timing and length. |
| 13 | Dwight Howard Center, Orlando Magic (2004–2012) 'Superman' Dwight Howard has 2,228 blocks, known for his athleticism and defensive prowess. A three-time Defensive Player of the Year, he led the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009. |
| 14 | Ben Wallace Center/Power Forward, Washington Bullets/Wizards (1996–1999) An undrafted defensive marvel, Ben Wallace collected 2,137 blocks and famously won four Defensive Player of the Year awards, tied for the most in NBA history. He was a key member of the Detroit Pistons' 2004 championship team. |
| 15 | Shawn Bradley Center, Philadelphia 76ers (1993–1995) The 7'6" Shawn Bradley utilized his immense height to record 2,119 blocks during his NBA career. He was a significant shot-blocking presence for multiple teams, particularly the Dallas Mavericks. |
| 16 | Manute Bol Center, Washington Bullets (1985–1988) One of the tallest players in NBA history, Manute Bol recorded 2,086 blocks and famously has more career blocks than points. He holds the second-highest career blocks-per-game average (3.3) and was a unique defensive specialist. |
| 17 | George Johnson Center, Golden State Warriors (1975–1977) George Johnson tallied 2,084 blocks in his NBA career, establishing himself as a strong defensive center in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He led the league in blocks three times during his career. |
| 18 | Brook Lopez Center, New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets (2008–2017) An active player, Brook Lopez has accumulated 2,042 blocks (as of March 13, 2026), evolving into a premier rim protector later in his career. He transformed his game to become a vital defensive anchor for the Milwaukee Bucks. |
| 19 | Kevin Garnett Power Forward/Center, Minnesota Timberwolves (1995–2007) A fierce competitor and Defensive Player of the Year, Kevin Garnett amassed 2,037 blocks in his Hall of Fame career. 'The Big Ticket' was known for his all-around defensive excellence and intensity. |
| 20 | Larry Nance Power Forward, Phoenix Suns (1981–1988) The first-ever NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion, Larry Nance also excelled defensively, recording 2,021 blocks. He was a versatile power forward known for his athletic shot-blocking ability. |
| 21 | Theo Ratliff Center, Detroit Pistons (1995–1998) Theo Ratliff was a shot-blocking specialist who registered 1,968 blocks, leading the league three times. His defensive impact was significant for several teams throughout his career. |
| 22 | Pau Gasol Power Forward/Center, Memphis Grizzlies (2001–2008) A highly skilled international big man, Pau Gasol collected 1,941 blocks and won two NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. He was known for his elegant offensive game and solid defensive contributions. |
| 23 | Anthony Davis Power Forward/Center, New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans (2012–2019) An active and elite two-way player, Anthony Davis has recorded 1,939 blocks (as of March 13, 2026). He is a multiple-time All-NBA and All-Defensive selection, known for his incredible versatility on defense. |
| 24 | Elton Brand Power Forward/Center, Chicago Bulls (1999–2001) Elton Brand, a two-time All-Star, amassed 1,828 blocks with his powerful post-play and strong defensive efforts. He was a consistent double-double threat throughout his career. |
| 25 | Jermaine O'Neal Power Forward/Center, Portland Trail Blazers (1996–2000) A six-time All-Star, Jermaine O'Neal compiled 1,777 blocks, showcasing his defensive prowess as a dominant big man in the 2000s. He was a two-time All-Defensive Second Team selection. |
| 26 | Rudy Gobert Center, Utah Jazz (2013–2022) An active player and three-time Defensive Player of the Year, Rudy Gobert has 1,757 blocks (as of March 13, 2026). 'The Stifle Tower' is celebrated for his exceptional rim protection and defensive impact. |
| 27 | Serge Ibaka Power Forward/Center, Oklahoma City Thunder (2009–2016) Known for his athleticism and shot-blocking, Serge Ibaka has accumulated 1,752 blocks. He led the league in blocks twice and was a key defensive player for several contending teams. |
| 28 | Josh Smith Power Forward, Atlanta Hawks (2004–2013) Josh Smith was a dynamic forward known for his highlight-reel blocks and athleticism, tallying 1,716 career blocks. He consistently ranked among the league leaders in rejections. |
| 29 | Elvin Hayes Power Forward, Houston Rockets (1968–1972) One of the NBA's 50 and 75 Greatest Players, Elvin Hayes recorded 1,701 blocks. His total is from the portion of his career after blocks became an official statistic in 1973-74, though he played several seasons before then. |
| 30 | Kevin McHale Power Forward, Boston Celtics (1980–1993) A Hall of Famer and key member of the 1980s Boston Celtics dynasty, Kevin McHale accumulated 1,690 blocks. Known for his array of post moves and tenacious defense, he was a two-time Sixth Man of the Year. |
| 31 | Artis Gilmore Center, Chicago Bulls (1976–1982) The 'A-Train' Artis Gilmore was a dominant force in both the ABA and NBA, registering 1,672 blocks in his NBA career. He was known for his incredible size, strength, and shot-altering presence. |
| 32 | Vlade Divac Center, Los Angeles Lakers (1989–1996) Vlade Divac, a skilled passing center, also provided strong rim protection, finishing his career with 1,631 blocks. He was an integral part of several successful teams, including the 'Greatest Show on Court' Sacramento Kings. |
| 33 | Moses Malone Center, Buffalo Braves (1976) A three-time NBA MVP and one of the greatest rebounders ever, Moses Malone also recorded 1,623 blocks. His official block total only reflects the latter part of his career, as statistics were not tracked early on. |
| 34 | Herb Williams Center/Power Forward, Indiana Pacers (1981–1989) Herb Williams, a consistent defensive presence, accumulated 1,605 blocks over his career. He was a reliable shot-blocker and rebounder for multiple NBA franchises. |
| 35 | Elden Campbell Center/Power Forward, Los Angeles Lakers (1990–1999) Elden Campbell was a durable big man who provided consistent scoring and defense, finishing with 1,602 blocks. He played for several teams throughout his lengthy NBA career. |
| 36 | Benoit Benjamin Center, Los Angeles Clippers (1985–1991) A 7-foot center drafted 3rd overall, Benoit Benjamin compiled 1,581 blocks in his career. He was known for his shot-blocking ability and holds the Clippers' career record for blocks per game. |
| 37 | DeAndre Jordan Center, Los Angeles Clippers (2008–2018) An active player known for his elite athleticism and rebounding, DeAndre Jordan has amassed 1,562 blocks (as of March 13, 2026). He was a key defensive anchor during his time with the 'Lob City' Clippers. |
| 38 | Samuel Dalembert Center, Philadelphia 76ers (2001–2010) Samuel Dalembert, a Haitian-Canadian center, recorded 1,546 blocks in his NBA career. He was recognized for his rebounding and shot-blocking ability, particularly during his tenure with the 76ers. |
| 39 | Myles Turner Center, Indiana Pacers (2015–present) An active player and two-time NBA blocks leader, Myles Turner has collected 1,473 blocks (as of March 13, 2026). He is a modern-era rim protector known for his ability to block shots and stretch the floor. |
| 40 | Wayne Cooper Center/Power Forward, Golden State Warriors (1978–1980) Wayne Cooper amassed 1,489 blocks across a career spanning over a decade. He was a solid defensive big man, primarily known for his contributions to the Denver Nuggets in the 1980s. |
| 41 | Caldwell Jones Center/Power Forward, Philadelphia 76ers (1976–1979) Caldwell Jones, a formidable presence in the paint, recorded 1,472 blocks in his NBA career. He was known for his shot-blocking and rebounding skills during the late 1970s and 1980s. |
| 42 | Tyson Chandler Center, Los Angeles Clippers (2001–2006) A former Defensive Player of the Year, Tyson Chandler accumulated 1,438 blocks with his elite rim protection and rebounding. He was a pivotal defensive anchor for the 2011 NBA champion Dallas Mavericks. |
| 43 | Brad Daugherty Center, Cleveland Cavaliers (1986–1994) The first overall pick in 1986, Brad Daugherty collected 1,414 blocks during his career. He was a five-time All-Star known for his scoring, rebounding, and solid interior defense. |
| 44 | Joe Barry Carroll Center, Golden State Warriors (1980–1984) Joe Barry Carroll, a talented scoring center, also contributed defensively with 1,392 blocks. He had a notable career primarily with the Golden State Warriors in the 1980s. |
| 45 | Terry Tyler Small Forward/Power Forward, Detroit Pistons (1978–1985) Terry Tyler, known for his athleticism, recorded 1,399 blocks as a versatile forward. He spent the majority of his career with the Detroit Pistons, showcasing his defensive capabilities. |
| 46 | Jeff Ruland Center, Washington Bullets (1981–1986) Jeff Ruland, a tough and physical center, accumulated 1,390 blocks despite a career shortened by injuries. He was an All-Star and a key player for the Washington Bullets in the 1980s. |
| 47 | Thurl Bailey Power Forward/Center, Utah Jazz (1983–1991) Thurl Bailey was a consistent and versatile forward for the Utah Jazz, accumulating 1,086 blocks. He was known for his scoring and solid defensive contributions off the bench, including an NCAA championship with NC State. |
| 48 | P.J. Brown Power Forward/Center, New Jersey Nets (1993–1997) P.J. Brown was a rugged defensive specialist and rebounder who recorded 1,215 blocks in his career. He was a respected veteran known for his hard-nosed play and leadership. |
| 49 | Swen Nater Center, Milwaukee Bucks (1973–1974) Swen Nater, an accomplished rebounder in both the ABA and NBA, amassed 1,170 blocks in his NBA career. He led the NBA in rebounding in 1980 and was a significant post presence. |
| 50 | Rasheed Wallace Power Forward/Center, Washington Bullets (1995–1996) Rasheed Wallace, known for his fiery personality and versatility, compiled 1,170 blocks. A four-time All-Star, he was a key defensive player for the 2004 NBA champion Detroit Pistons. |