With the Denver Nuggets eliminated from the playoffs on Sunday, Nikola Jokić's exceptional five-year run in the NBA comes to a noteworthy conclusion. Since the beginning of the 2020-21 season, Jokić has averaged 26.8 points, 12.3 rebounds, 9.0 assists, and 1.4 steals. During this span, he secured three MVP awards, one Finals MVP, and led the Nuggets to their first championship in the 2023 NBA Finals. This impressive collection of achievements raises the question of whether anyone else has matched such a dominant half-decade in NBA history.

To assess Jokić's contributions and performance, it is important to consider not just raw statistics, but also regular-season accolades like MVP and All-NBA selections, as well as playoff success. Furthermore, the historical context is significant, as pre-merger seasons, along with the introduction of the three-point line, complicate comparisons across eras. The legacy of players such as Bill Russell, whose championships were won in a less competitive league environment, also informs these assessments. This article explores the top ten five-year periods in NBA history, taking into account both established legends and current stars.

Among the early candidates, Wilt Chamberlain stands out as a remarkable figure. During his prime, he was often seen as a man outmatching his competition, but his achievements did not always culminate in championships, as evidenced by some of his highest individual output seasons did not translate to title wins. Bill Russell, on the other hand, enjoyed unmatched success during these years, winning a championship each year of the five-year evaluation period, showcasing his leadership and defensive prowess with the Boston Celtics. Giannis Antetokounmpo established himself as a unique force in a highly skilled era, culminating in capturing the title in 2021 and showcasing versatility as both a scorer and defender. Magic Johnson brought flair and innovation to the game while leading the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing to their rise during the Showtime era. Larry Bird’s competitive spirit propelled him to become one of the best forwards, highlighting his clutch plays and impactful presence on both ends of the floor.

Stephen Curry's transformative impact on the game cannot be overlooked; his shooting ability fundamentally altered team strategies across the league. Meanwhile, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's dominance prior to joining the Lakers earned him accolades during a stellar half-decade with the Milwaukee Bucks. Lastly, the recent peak performances of both Jokić and LeBron James invite further discussion, as Jokić's statistical mastery and LeBron’s versatile skill set arguably position them at the top of this historical analysis. With an exploration of their unique contributions and the evolution of playstyles in the league, this article endeavors to outline the players whose remarkable stretches helped shape the NBA as we know it today.