Just like some of the retired great NBA players with no ring, there are some current NBA players that you won`t believe have no ring to their name. The pursuit of an NBA championship ring is the ultimate goal for any professional basketball player. While some fortunate stars have basked in the glory of winning the coveted title, here is a group of immensely talented players who have yet to taste the sweetness of championship success.
Damian Lillard
Casually referred to as “Dame,” is one of the most accomplished professional basketball players in the NBA not to have won a ring. Known for his exceptional skills and clutch performances,Damian Lillard has spent his entire NBA career with the Portland Trail Blazers, becoming one of the most beloved and respected players in the league.
Lillard declared for the 2012 NBA Draft and was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the sixth overall pick. He wasted no time making an impact in the NBA, earning the Rookie of the Year award for the 2012-2013 seasons. Lillard’s exceptional scoring ability and poise were evident from the beginning, and he quickly established himself as a rising star.
Since his rookie year, Lillard has been a fixture in the NBA All-Star Game, earning multiple selections throughout his career. He has consistently been recognized as one of the league’s premier guards and has received numerous All-NBA honors. Lillard’s ability to score from anywhere on the court, his deep three-point shooting range, and his clutch performances have made him a fan favorite.
Despite having won no ring Lillard has received numerous individual accolades, including being named to multiple All-NBA teams and All-Star appearances. He won the NBA Skills Challenge during All-Star Weekend and has been recognized as one of the league’s most valuable players.
Chris Paul
Chris Paul began his NBA journey in 2005 when he was selected fourth overall by the New Orleans Hornets (now the Pelicans) in the NBA Draft. He wasted no time making an impact and quickly established himself as one of the premier playmakers in the league. In his rookie season, Paul averaged 16.1 points, 7.8 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award.
His NBA career has been on an upward trajectory ever since. Paul has been recognized as an elite floor general; consistently leading the league in assists and steals. His ability to orchestrate an offense and control the tempo of the game has been a defining characteristic of his playing style.
In 2011, Paul was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, after what could have been a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers. Many basketball fans believe Chris Paul`s failed trade to the Lakers to team up with Kobe Bryant would have seen his no ring status vanish as he was more likely to win a championship with the Lakers.
In 2020, Paul joined the Phoenix Suns, bringing his wealth of experience to a young and talented squad. His impact was immediate, as he helped transform the Suns into a legitimate championship contender. During the 2020-2021 season, Paul guided the Suns to an impressive run in the playoffs, leading them to the NBA Finals for the first time in nearly three decades. Although they fell short of winning the championship, Paul’s leadership and on-court brilliance were on full display throughout the postseason.
Chris Paul has been named to the All-NBA First Team on multiple occasions and has received multiple All-Defensive Team selections but just like some great retired NBA players, he still has no ring to his name.
James Harden
James Harden is one of the best players in the NBA to have no ring. Despite his individual achievements, Harden’s quest for an NBA championship has eluded him thus far. He has led the Rockets to multiple deep playoff runs, including a trip to the Western Conference Finals in 2015 and 2018. In 2021, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, forming a formidable trio alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
James Harden’s NBA career has been defined by his offensive brilliance, unique playing style, and numerous accolades. While the quest for a championship continues, his impact on the game is undeniable, leaving fans in awe of his scoring outbursts and mesmerizing moves. Harden’s legacy as one of the greatest shooting guards of all time is firmly cemented, and his impact on the game will be felt for generations to come.
Luka Donicic
Luka has quickly become one of the brightest stars in the NBA since entering the league in 2018. His consistent excellence has led to multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.
Having no ring at his age is surely a motivation for him. Luka Donicic`s NBA career is still in its early stages, but his impact has been undeniable. With his exceptional talent, basketball IQ, and remarkable achievements, he has emerged as one of the league’s brightest stars. The future is incredibly promising for this young Slovenian sensation, and fans eagerly await the next chapter of his already illustrious career.
Joel Embiid
Embiid’s career has been marked by several standout moments. In the 2018-2019 season, he averaged 27.5 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, leading the 76ers to the second round of the playoffs. He also achieved his first All-Star selection and earned a spot on the All-NBA Second Team.
Jimmy Butler
A significant chapter in Butler’s career unfolded in 2019 when he joined the Miami Heat. His arrival revitalized the team, and he became the heart and soul of the franchise. During the 2020 NBA Playoffs, Butler showcased his incredible talent and leadership, guiding the Heat to the NBA Finals. Despite no ring, Butler has led the Miami heat to two of their recent NBA finals.
Russell Westbrook
Still in pursuit of the championship, his relentless pursuit of greatness and unwavering competitive spirit have earned Westbrook a place in NBA history. His explosive athleticism, high-flying dunks, and intense playing style have captivated fans across the globe. Whether it’s his powerful drives to the basket or his ability to dish out thunderous assists, Westbrook’s impact on the game is undeniable.
Russell Westbrook’s career has been filled with awe-inspiring moments, individual accolades, and a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
These NBA players with no ring is a testament to the incredible skill, dedication, and resilience of these athletes who have made significant contributions to the game. Whether they continue their pursuit of a championship or not, their impact on the court and their ability to entertain fans will forever be remembered. As fans, let’s appreciate the talents of these players, recognizing that the absence of a ring does not diminish their accomplishments and the joy they bring to the game of basketball.
