Fastest players in the NBA
Who is the fastest NBA player in 2023? Read more below to find out more about the fastest players in the NBA right now.
Fastest NBA player 2023
Speed offers many advantages in basketball. When attacking, you can let your defenders down. On defense, however, you can chase blocks, sprint to defend transitions, and eliminate shooters.
Here are the ten fastest NBA players…
10. Shaedon Sharpe
After being drafted by the Blazers, Shaedon Sharpe automatically became one of the most athletic players in the NBA. That athleticism was on full display last season with his thunderous dunks.
Sharpe not only has a high vertical jump, but also great speed. With his lightning-fast first step he can outrun his defenders.
9. Tyrese Maxey
When it comes to the fastest NBA players of 2023 discussions, Tyrese Maxey’s name is always mentioned. His speed is one of the main reasons why he is successful as the Sixers’ second scorer alongside Joel Embiid.
Maxey is dangerous in the open ground because of his wide range of motion and high speed. He can finish, make the extra pass or simply blow past his defender in transition. Last season, Maxey had his best season as a scorer, averaging 20.3 points per game on 48% shooting.
8. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo is arguably the most athletic player in the world right now. His athleticism is simply unfair given his size. Not only is he one of the strongest players, he is also one of the fastest. He has long strides, which makes it even harder for defenders to catch him in transition.
At age 28, Giannis already has a strong reputation as a future Hall of Famer. He has been named league MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and Finals MVP twice and is also a champion. There’s more to come for one of the greatest power forwards of all time.
7. Kira Lewis Jr.
At 1.90 meters, Kira Lewis Jr. is extremely fast. His speed makes it difficult for defenders to contain him. Additionally, his quick first step allows him to blow past his defenders without having to make a series of dribbling moves.
Now entering his fourth season with the Pelicans, Lewis must prove he can contribute at a high level. This season is something to watch as his minutes and production have declined since his rookie season.
6. Jaden Ivey
Jaden Ivey had a quiet but impressive season last season. He scored 16.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game while shooting 42%. The only criticism of his rookie season is his shooting performance. There’s no reason to believe he won’t improve his shooting numbers over the next few seasons.
Ivey’s goal-scoring ability was on full display last season, especially in the open field. His quick attack and speed allow him to shoot past his defenders in transition. He also has high jumping ability for a guard.
5. Russell Westbrook
It’s no secret that Russell Westbrook is no longer in his prime. However, he is still one of the fastest NBA players at the moment.
Westbrook thrives in the transition game after grabbing a rebound. There is no way to stop him as he is fast and powerful. His acceleration and speed are out of this world and he can easily overpower defenders. He also has a high vertical jump and can spotlight anyone who dares to challenge him at the rim.
4. Donovan Mitchell
At the 2017 NBA Draft Combine, Donovan Mitchell ran a three-quarter court dash in 3.01 seconds, which was the record at the time. His speed has worked well in the league.
At his current pace, Donovan Mitchell has a good chance of becoming one of the best shooting guards in league history. He had his highest scoring season last year when he averaged 28.3 points per game on 48% shooting.
Mitchell uses his speed to outrun his defenders with ease. He has great handles that make it even harder for the defender to contain him. Additionally, he has a deadly pull-up jumper that he can shoot from anywhere on the court. There is no way to stop him from scoring.
3. Keon Johnson
Keon Johnson is one of the fastest NBA players. At the 2021 NBA Draft Combine, Johnson recorded a three-quarter time dash of 3.00 seconds, which was the second fastest in his draft class. He also recorded a maximum vertical jump of 48 inches, the highest in draft combine history.
After a move to the Suns, Johnson is now entering his third season and can only improve at this point. Over the last two seasons, he averaged just 5.2 points on 36% shooting.
2. Yes Morant
When it comes to highlight reels, Ja Morant’s collection of poster dunks is always there. He’s a crazy athlete who can jump over anyone and throw the ball to the ground.
In addition to his high vertical jump, Morant is also quick, especially when he gets the ball in transition. Last season, he averaged 6.1 points per game in transition, third among point guards.
1. De’Aaron Fox
De’Aaron Fox is the fastest NBA player in 2023. With his blazing speed, Fox can leave his defenders stranded in transition. What makes him even more dangerous is his ball-handling skills. With his speed and ball-handling skills, he can easily outrun his defenders.
Fox had an outstanding season in 2022-23, averaging 25 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game. He also helped the Kings end their 16-year playoff drought.
In NBA 2K24, Fox has one 97 speed rating This is the fastest in the game.
