NBA’s Greatest Rebounders

Each Player Has Averaged At Least 8 RPG over their Career.

SeasonplayertmggsFG%3P%2P%FT%trbaststlblktovpfpts
2017-18John CollinsATL74260.5760.3400.5980.7157.31.30.61.11.42.910.5
2018-19John CollinsATL61590.5600.3480.6090.7639.82.00.40.62.03.319.5
2019-20John CollinsATL41410.5830.4010.6420.80010.11.50.81.61.83.421.6
2020-21John CollinsATL63630.5560.3990.6150.8337.41.20.51.01.33.117.6
2021-22John CollinsATL54530.5260.3640.5880.7937.81.80.61.01.13.016.2
2022-23John CollinsATL71710.5080.2920.6190.8037.81.40.71.21.33.715.7
2023-24John CollinsUTA68660.5320.3710.6050.7958.51.10.60.91.42.815.1

Just Remember – Our Regular Season Data goes as far back as the 1999-2000 NBA Season.
The NBA player may have begun their career before then.

Rebounding in the NBA is more than just grabbing the ball off the glass; it’s a skill that requires timing, positioning, strength, and a touch of finesse. The best rebounders in the league use a variety of techniques to dominate the boards and give their team extra possessions. Let’s dive into the different styles of rebounding that make an impact in every game.

The Box-Out Rebound

The box-out is fundamental to effective rebounding. This technique involves a player using their body to shield an opponent from the basket, creating space to secure the ball. Dennis Rodman and Tim Duncan were masters of the box-out, using their understanding of angles and positioning to consistently outmaneuver bigger and stronger opponents. It’s not just about brute force; it’s about leverage and timing.

The Tip-In Rebound

Sometimes, there’s no time to grab the ball cleanly, especially in the midst of heavy traffic. That’s where the tip-in comes into play. A player tips the ball towards the basket or to a teammate instead of catching it. This quick, instinctive move can lead to easy points or keep the play alive. Wilt Chamberlain and Charles Barkley excelled at using their length and timing to tip the ball back into the hoop or to a waiting teammate.

The Offensive Rebound

Grabbing an offensive rebound often requires a mix of anticipation, agility, and tenacity. It’s about predicting where the ball will bounce off the rim and beating the defenders to it. Moses Malone built a career on this skill, often turning missed shots into easy putbacks. Offensive rebounding can demoralize opponents and give your team crucial second-chance points.

The Put-Back Dunk

The put-back dunk is one of the most electrifying plays in basketball. A player not only grabs the offensive rebound but slams it back in before landing. This play requires incredible athleticism and timing. Players like Shawn Kemp and Zion Williamson have thrilled fans with their ability to soar above the rim, snatch the rebound, and immediately dunk it with authority.

The Long Rebound

With the evolution of the game and the increase in three-point shooting, long rebounds have become more common. These rebounds typically bounce out further from the basket, requiring guards and perimeter players to be alert and quick. Russell Westbrook has turned this into an art form, using his speed and anticipation to snag long rebounds and ignite fast breaks.

The High-Point Rebound

High-pointing the ball means catching it at the highest point of your jump, making it difficult for others to contest. This technique is crucial when fighting for rebounds in a crowd. Kevin Garnett and DeAndre Jordan were known for their ability to leap and grab the ball at its peak, using their timing and vertical leap to dominate the boards.

The Outlet Rebound

An effective rebounder does more than just secure the ball; they initiate the next play. The outlet rebound involves quickly passing the ball to a guard to start a fast break. Wes Unseld was famous for his powerful and precise outlet passes, turning defensive rebounds into immediate offensive opportunities. This style of rebounding can change the pace of the game and catch opponents off guard.

The Hustle Rebound

Sometimes, rebounding is all about hustle and determination. Players who dive for loose balls, chase down long rebounds, and outwork their opponents exemplify this style. Marcus Smart and Draymond Green embody the hustle rebound, using their energy and tenacity to make plays that don’t always show up on the stat sheet but make a significant impact on the game.

The Defensive Rebound

Securing defensive rebounds is crucial for ending an opponent’s possession. This often requires boxing out, strong hands, and the ability to read the trajectory of the ball. Hakeem Olajuwon and Dwight Howard were excellent defensive rebounders, using their size and positioning to control the glass and limit second-chance opportunities for their opponents.

The Positioning Rebound

Positioning is everything in rebounding. Knowing where to stand, how to move your body, and anticipating where the ball will come off the rim are key elements. Players like Karl Malone and Paul Millsap excelled at positioning themselves perfectly to grab rebounds, using their basketball IQ to outmaneuver opponents.

In conclusion, rebounding in the NBA is a multifaceted skill that combines technique, athleticism, and basketball intelligence. Whether it’s the fundamental box-out, the thrilling put-back dunk, or the strategic outlet pass, each style of rebounding adds depth and excitement to the game. Great rebounders not only secure possessions but also inspire their teammates and energize the crowd, making rebounding one of the most essential and dynamic aspects of basketball.