Over the years, the NBA has witnessed a plethora of talented players who were blessed with great ball-handling ability.
However, just like every other skill, there are some players who are a notch above their peers when it comes to handling the ball well.
Philadelphia 76ers legend Allen Iverson is often considered a phenomenal ball-handler. Who does AI think is the greatest ball-handler of all time?
Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty ImagesAllen Iverson once picked Kyrie Irving as the GOAT ball-handler over Stephen Curry
When it comes to the modern era, Kyrie Irving and Stephen Curry are often viewed as two phenomenal ball-handlers, thanks to their razor-sharp movements on the hardwood.
But only one player is worthy of being bestowed upon the title of the GOAT ball-handler, and for Iverson, it’s none other than Irving.
“Hell yeah, he’s the best. He is the best. Steph’s handles are crazy and Kyrie’s jumper is wet too. But Steph, his jumper gets him over a lot, because he can cross half-court and let it go,” Iverson said on The Big Podcast in 2024.
He added: “Kyrie will have you beat and then bring it back, and play with it. Like, he toys with people.”
Iverson gave Curry his flowers, but he believes the Golden State Warriors star’s jumper is more lethal than his handles. On the other hand, in the case of Irving, the opposite is true.
Shaquille O’Neal says Jason Williams is a better ball-handler than Kyrie Irving
After patiently hearing Iverson’s take, podcast host and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal shared his two cents on the same as well.
Shaq didn’t agree with Kai as he picked Jason Williams a.k.a. ‘The White Chocolate’ as the greatest ball-handler of all time.
“So, where does my boy fall into that? White Chocolate? That’s who I’d say had the best handles ever.”
While Iverson stayed with his list, he did acknowledge that Williams had sensational ball-handling skills during his NBA career.