The Best Washington Wizards Centers of All Time
Big fan of Washington basketball? Then check out this list of Washington Wizards centers with photos and seasons played with the team. It includes almost every center from throughout Washington Wizards history, including current centers and past ones. Featuring some of the greatest NBA centers of all time, the best Wizards Cs include Wes Unseld, Moses Malone, Elvin Hayes, and Walt Bellamy.
In the 2017-18 NBA season, the current Washington Wizards starting Cs and backup Cs are Marcin Gortat and Ian Mahinmi.
Who are the best centers in Washington Wizards history? Here is every player who has ever held the position of Washington Wizards center.
- 1Age: 78
Washington Wizards: 1969-1981
A relentless force inside the paint, Wes Unseld was a vital component to the Washington Wizards' storied history, initially joining the team as the second overall draft pick. With an uncanny ability to control the glass and an impeccable sense of timing, he set himself apart from his contemporaries and garnered numerous accolades, including Rookie of the Year, MVP, and eventually an NBA championship. Throughout his career, Unseld showcased an exceptional passing skill and gritty determination that solidified his spot as one of the best centers in the franchise's existence.
- 2Age: 79
Washington Wizards: 1973-1981
Arriving at the Washington Wizards via trade, Elvin Hayes seamlessly merged his imposing presence with a smooth offensive repertoire, causing havoc for opposing defenses. Equipped with a deadly turnaround jump shot and commanding the paint with authority, he went on to make multiple All-Star appearances during his tenure in Washington. A key factor in their 1978 NBA Championship run, Hayes remains an iconic figure within the Wizards' pantheon of legends.
- 3Age: 69
Washington Wizards: 1987-1988
Dominating the hardwood with his signature blend of power and finesse, Moses Malone joined the Washington Wizards as a highly sought-after free agent, instantly making an impact on the team's performance. Bringing unparalleled rebounding and shot-blocking instincts to the table, he played a crucial role in anchoring the Wizards' defensive efforts throughout his time there. A three-time NBA MVP and 12-time All-Star, Malone left a lasting impression on the franchise as one of the greatest big men ever to wear the jersey.
- 4Dec. at 74 (1939-2013)
Washington Wizards: 1962-1966
A standout player in the early days of the Washington Wizards franchise, Walt Bellamy was a menacing force in the post, having been acquired through a notable trade. Boasting an impressive arsenal of offensive moves and exceptional shot-blocking skills, he consistently dominated the opposition. Bellamy's prowess would eventually earn him a spot in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, forever immortalizing his contributions to the Wizards' organization.
- 5Age: 40
Washington Wizards: 2014-2018
Entering the fold through a pivotal trade, Marcin Gortat soon established himself as a stalwart presence in the paint for the Washington Wizards. Possessing a refined pick-and-roll game, coupled with a tenacious rebounding ability, Gortat's contributions proved invaluable to the team's overall success. Though lacking any major awards, his unwavering commitment and dependable playstyle won the hearts of many Wizards fans during his time on the court.
- 6Age: 54
Washington Wizards: 1994-1997
Standing tall as the tallest player in NBA history, Gheorghe Mureșan was a unique addition to the Washington Wizards when they drafted him in the second round. As an imposing presence underneath the basket, Mureșan used his size to his advantage, playing a critical role in the team's defensive schemes. His unorthodox style of play and memorable personality endeared him to the Wizards faithful, with his Most Improved Player award in 1996 serving as a testament to his growth on the court.
- 7Age: 51
Washington Wizards: 1995-1998
As the first overall pick in the draft, expectations were high for Chris Webber when he joined the Washington Wizards, and he quickly lived up to those lofty expectations. Combining sublime athleticism with a versatile skill set, Webber terrorized opponents with a dazzling array of offensive moves. Though his time with the Wizards was brief, his All-Star appearances and Rookie of the Year recognition bore testament to the impact he left upon the franchise.
- 8Age: 45
Washington Wizards: 2002-2010
Selected by the Washington Wizards in the first round of the draft, Brendan Haywood brought a much-needed defensive presence to the team. Specializing in rim protection and rebounding, Haywood played a significant role in solidifying the team's frontcourt for several seasons. Despite never receiving any major awards, his steady play endeared him to many within the Wizards' fan base and cemented his reputation as a stout center.
- 9Age: 66
Washington Wizards: 1982-1986
Initially arriving in Washington as a second-round draft pick, Jeff Ruland quickly demonstrated his worth on the court with his versatile offensive game and relentless rebounding prowess. Making multiple All-Star appearances during his tenure with the Wizards, Ruland cemented his place among the franchise's best centers. Despite never capturing any significant awards, his on-court performance left an indelible mark on the organization and fan base.
- 10Age: 66
Washington Wizards: 1981-1985
Arriving in Washington via trade, Rick Mahorn made an immediate impact on the Wizards with his bruising style of play and relentless physicality. A defensive enforcer who never shied away from contact, Mahorn quickly earned the respect of his teammates for his hard-nosed approach to the game. Though his time with the Wizards was relatively brief, his contributions to the team's success left a lasting impression on the organization and fans alike.
- 11Age: 37
Washington Wizards: 2009-2012
Drafted by the Washington Wizards in the first round, JaVale McGee brought a unique blend of size and agility to the team's center position. Possessing an extraordinary ability to alter shots and finish at the rim, McGee became an integral part of the Wizards' lineup. While his tenure in Washington did not result in any significant awards, his dynamic play on the court ensured that his name would be remembered by the franchise's fans.
- 12Dec. at 72 (1940-2012)
Washington Wizards: 1967-1970
Joining the Washington Wizards in the expansion draft, LeRoy Ellis quickly demonstrated his worth as a relentless rebounder and scorer down low. Employing a mix of finesse and power, Ellis left his mark on the franchise with his performance on the court. Though never capturing any significant individual awards, his contributions to the team's success during his tenure solidified his place among the top centers in the organization's history.
- 13Age: 52
Washington Wizards: 1995-2001
Determined to make his mark on the league, Juwan Howard joined the Washington Wizards as the fifth overall draft pick. Combining a polished post-game with remarkable versatility, Howard quickly emerged as one of the better centers in the organization's history. His back-to-back All-Star appearances and steady on-court performance served as a testament to the value he brought to the team throughout his tenure in Washington.
- 14Dec. at 61 (1941-2002)
Washington Wizards: 1966, 1971
Acquired by the Washington Wizards through a notable trade, Jim Barnes provided a steady scoring presence in the paint for the team. Possessing a soft touch around the basket and an uncanny ability to crash the boards, Barnes made a significant impact during his time in Washington. Though never receiving any major individual accolades, his contributions to the team's success underscored his place among the best centers to ever wear a Wizards uniform.
- 15Age: 42
Washington Wizards: 2013
Joining the Washington Wizards via trade, Emeka Okafor made an immediate impact on the team's frontcourt with his shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess. Using his size and strength to great effect, Okafor formed a formidable defensive tandem with his teammates. Although never receiving any All-Star nods or major awards while with the Wizards, his contributions to the team's success earned him a place in the hearts of the fans.
- 16Age: 42
Washington Wizards: 2012-2016
Arriving in Washington through a trade, Nenê quickly established himself as a key component of the Wizards' frontcourt due to his versatility and basketball IQ. Possessing a solid offensive game and exceptional passing skills for a big man, Nenê's playmaking ability stood out during his time with the team. Though never earning any significant individual accolades, his steady on-court presence firmly cemented his status among the best centers in the franchise's history.
- 17Dec. at 73 (1934-2007)
Washington Wizards: 1962-1963
Joining the Washington Wizards through the expansion draft, Woody Sauldsberry brought a tenacious approach to the game, quickly making his presence felt on the court. A versatile big man with a knack for scoring and rebounding, Sauldsberry became an integral part of the team's success during his time there. Though he never received any significant individual honors, his contributions on the court remain etched in the minds of the Wizards faithful.
- 18Age: 42
Washington Wizards: 2002-2005
As the first overall pick in the draft, expectations were high for Kwame Brown when he joined the Washington Wizards. Possessing a unique blend of size and athleticism, Brown showed flashes of brilliance during his time with the team. While his tenure in Washington was ultimately marred by inconsistency, his potential and impact on the court ensured that he would be remembered by the franchise and its fans.
- 19Age: 70
Washington Wizards: 1977-1981
Drafted by the Washington Wizards in the first round, Mitch Kupchak brought a tenacious rebounding presence and physical style of play to the table. A key contributor to the team's success during his time there, Kupchak left an indelible mark on the organization and its fans. Though he never received any major individual awards while with the Wizards, his relentless commitment and impact on the court ensured that his contributions would not be forgotten.
- 20Age: 83
Washington Wizards: 1967
Acquired through a notable trade, Mel Counts made an immediate impact on the Washington Wizards with his impressive range and shooting touch for a big man. Contributing valuable floor spacing and a reliable scoring option, Counts quickly became a key component of the team's success. Though he never captured any significant individual accolades during his tenure, his on-court performance left an indelible mark on the organization and fan base.
Washington Wizards: 2021-ongoing
Representing a new era of centers for the Washington Wizards, Daniel Gafford has proved his worth by combining superior athleticism with an imposing physical stature. Dominating the court with his 6'10" frame, Gafford uses his size and strength to outmaneuver opponents in the rebounding department, unrelenting in his pursuit for every loose ball in the paint. The defensive prowess he exhibits is not just about shot blocking, but the influence he exerts on the game, disrupting the offensive rhythm of opponents and altering their shots- a true embodiment of a modern center.
- 22Age: 62
Washington Wizards: 1999
Arriving in Washington via trade, Otis Thorpe made an immediate impact on the Wizards' frontcourt with his strong post play and ferocious rebounding. Providing a consistent scoring option for the team, Thorpe quickly became an integral part of the Wizards' success. Despite never garnering any significant individual accolades during his tenure in Washington, his contributions on the court undoubtedly solidified his place among the best centers in the organization's history.
- 23Age: 48
Washington Wizards: 1999-2004
Drafted by the Washington Wizards in the second round, Jahidi White quickly made his mark on the team with his imposing physicality and aggressive rebounding. A force to be reckoned with in the paint, White provided the Wizards with a much-needed defensive presence during his time there. Despite never garnering any major awards, his contributions to the team's success left a lasting impression on the organization and its fans.
- 24Age: 57
Washington Wizards: 1991-1994
Arriving in Washington via trade, Pervis Ellison quickly established himself as a formidable shot-blocker and rebounder for the Wizards. Employing a relentless defensive intensity and strong work ethic, Ellison made a significant impact on the team's frontcourt. While never earning any significant individual awards during his time with the team, his consistent on-court presence solidified his place among the best centers in the franchise's history.
- 25
Red Kerr
Washington Wizards: 1966
Joining the Washington Wizards as a player-coach, Red Kerr brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Possessing a hard-nosed style of play and a keen basketball intellect, Kerr made an immediate impact on the court and the sideline. Though he never garnered any major individual accolades during his tenure in Washington, his contributions as both a player and coach remain etched in the fabric of the franchise's history.
- 26Age: 55
Washington Wizards: 2001-2004
Arriving in Washington via trade, Christian Laettner brought a wealth of experience and a versatile skill set to the Wizards' frontcourt. Capable of playing both inside and outside, Laettner provided the team with a valuable offensive weapon during his time there. Despite never capturing any significant individual accolades, his on-court contributions contributed to the team's success and solidified his place among the best centers in the organization's history.
- 27Age: 86
Washington Wizards: 1967-1970
Arriving in Washington via trade, Ray Scott brought a blend of size and skill to the Wizards' frontcourt. Displaying a polished post game and a knack for rebounding, Scott played an essential role in the team's success during his tenure. Though he never earned any significant individual accolades while with the Wizards, his steady on-court presence firmly cemented his status among the best centers in the franchise's history.
- 28Age: 38
Washington Wizards: 2006-2012
As a second-round draft pick, Andray Blatche made his presence felt on the Washington Wizards with his versatility and scoring ability. Possessing a unique blend of size and skill, Blatche provided the team with a vital scoring option in the frontcourt. Though never receiving any significant individual honors during his tenure in Washington, his contributions to the team's success reportedly left a lasting impression on the franchise and its fans.
- 29Age: 57
Washington Wizards: 1998-1999
Signed as a free agent by the Washington Wizards, Terry Davis immediately made an impact on the team with his relentless rebounding and high-energy play. A consistent contributor during his tenure in Washington, Davis filled a crucial role in the team's frontcourt. Though he never garnered any major individual awards, his dedication and on-court presence will always be remembered by the organization and its fans.
- 30Dec. at 71 (1935-2006)
Washington Wizards: 1962
Joining the Washington Wizards in their inaugural season, Charlie Tyra quickly endeared himself to fans with his hard-nosed approach to the game. Utilizing his size and strength to great effect, Tyra proved to be an invaluable contributor to the team's early success. While never garnering any major awards or accolades during his time in Washington, his impact on the court remains fondly remembered by the organization and its fans.
