Who Won the Most MVP in NBA History? Complete All-Time Ranking

Throughout NBA history, only a select group of elite players have managed to win the MVP award multiple times. While many legends have left their mark, one name stands alone at the top of the all-time MVP rankings. This article breaks down who won the most MVP awards in NBA history, highlights the players who dominated their eras, and provides a full ranking of the league’s most decorated stars.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The All-Time MVP Leader

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the record for the most MVP awards in NBA history, winning the honor six times. His MVP victories came across multiple seasons and teams, showcasing unmatched longevity and sustained excellence.
What separates Abdul-Jabbar from every other MVP winner is his ability to dominate offensively and defensively for over a decade. His record has stood the test of time and remains one of the most impressive individual achievements in professional sports.

Five-Time MVP Winners: Michael Jordan and Bill Russell

Michael Jordan and Bill Russell are tied for second place on the all-time MVP list with five awards each. Jordan’s MVPs reflect his scoring dominance, competitiveness, and influence during the Chicago Bulls’ championship era.Bill Russell’s MVP success, on the other hand, was built on leadership, defense, and winning at the highest level. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he anchored one of the most successful dynasties in NBA history.

Four-Time MVP Winners: LeBron James and Wilt Chamberlain

LeBron James and Wilt Chamberlain each won four MVP awards, representing two very different styles of dominance. LeBron’s MVPs highlight his versatility, basketball IQ, and ability to elevate teammates across multiple franchises.Chamberlain’s MVP seasons were defined by historic scoring, rebounding, and physical dominance. His individual performances reshaped how greatness was measured during his era.

Three-Time MVP Winners and Modern Greats

Several legendary players captured the MVP award three times, including Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Moses Malone, and Nikola Jokić. Each of these players defined an era with unique skill sets and leadership qualities.
Their MVP runs often coincided with team success and stylistic shifts in the league, from Bird and Magic’s rivalry to Jokić’s modern, playmaking-center style that changed expectations for big men.

Full Ranking: Most MVP Awards in NBA History

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar leads the list with six MVP awards, followed by Michael Jordan and Bill Russell with five each. LeBron James and Wilt Chamberlain sit next with four MVPs apiece.Players with three MVP awards include Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Moses Malone, and Nikola Jokić. Multiple legends round out the list with two MVPs, including Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Tim Duncan, Karl Malone, Steve Nash, and Bob Pettit.