The Greatest Chicago Bulls of All Time (Ranked in Reverse)
When it comes to legacy franchises in the NBA, the Chicago Bulls are a standout. From the golden era of the 1990s to rising stars of today, the Bulls have been shaped by a diverse cast of legends. While Michael Jordan remains the franchise’s ultimate icon, many others contributed to Chicago’s rich basketball heritage. This ranked list counts down the top 20 Bulls players of all time, highlighting skill, influence, and impact during their time in Chicago.
#20. Pau Gasol: The Elegant Big Man
Though his time in Chicago was short-lived, Pau Gasol made it count. A skilled scorer and passer from the post, the Spanish big man brought poise and leadership to a team in flux. Gasol was a two-time All-Star with the Bulls, offering professionalism and class during a transitional period in the franchise's journey.
#19. Kirk Hinrich: Captain Consistency
Kirk Hinrich, affectionately known as “Captain Kirk,” was a defensive anchor and floor general during his long Bulls tenure. Known for his scrappy play, sharp shooting, and team-first mentality, Hinrich helped steady the franchise during its post-dynasty rebuild and remains one of the franchise’s statistical leaders.
#18. B. J. Armstrong: The Steady Hand
B.J. Armstrong was a key cog in the Bulls’ first three-peat. A reliable point guard with a smooth shooting touch, he provided calm leadership and hit big shots when it counted. Though not flashy, his steady presence made him a trusted figure during the team’s early '90s dominance.
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#17. Charles Oakley: The Enforcer
Before he became a Knicks legend, Charles Oakley brought muscle to the Bulls. His tough defense and elite rebounding made him a fan favorite in the mid-1980s. Oakley helped set the tone for the gritty identity the Bulls would embrace in the years to come.
#16. DeMar DeRozan: The Mid-Range Maestro
Joining the Bulls later in his career, DeMar DeRozan quickly became a leader and go-to scorer. Known for his lethal mid-range game and veteran savvy, DeRozan helped restore competitiveness to Chicago basketball. His clutch performances brought energy back to the United Center.
#15. Zach LaVine: Showtime in Chicago
Zach LaVine’s athleticism and scoring have brought excitement to a new Bulls era. A two-time All-Star and dunk contest champion, LaVine has matured into a dynamic offensive weapon. While his Bulls journey is still unfolding, his highlight-reel plays and scoring prowess have already secured his spot among the greats.
#14. Luol Deng: The Quiet Leader
Luol Deng embodied professionalism and consistency. A skilled two-way player, he was the face of the Bulls for much of the 2000s. Deng’s defense, endurance, and leadership helped the Bulls remain competitive and made him one of the franchise’s most respected figures.
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#13. Joakim Noah: Heart and Hustle
Joakim Noah’s passion and energy defined the Bulls of the 2010s. A defensive powerhouse and emotional leader, Noah won Defensive Player of the Year and became a two-time All-Star. His fiery spirit and unique playmaking from the center position made him beloved in Chicago.
#12. Toni Kukoč: The European X-Factor
Toni Kukoč brought finesse, versatility, and international flair to the Bulls’ second three-peat. A reliable scorer and crafty passer, he was often the difference-maker off the bench. “The Waiter” consistently delivered under pressure and earned his place in Bulls lore.
#11. Jerry Sloan: The Original Bull
As one of the first players to ever suit up for the Bulls, Jerry Sloan set the tone. A relentless defender and hard-nosed competitor, Sloan was the prototype for Chicago toughness. His influence endured long after his playing days, and his number hangs proudly in the rafters.
#10. Ron Harper: The Quiet Contributor
Ron Harper may not have filled stat sheets, but his defense and experience were crucial to the Bulls’ late-'90s success. As a key guard during the second three-peat, Harper accepted a lesser scoring role and thrived as a defensive stopper and steady veteran presence.
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#9. Steve Kerr: The Sharpshooter
Steve Kerr’s clutch gene and deadly three-point shooting made him invaluable to the Bulls. He hit one of the most iconic shots in franchise history in the 1997 Finals. Though a role player, Kerr’s ability to stretch the floor and step up in big moments left a lasting mark.
#8. Bob Love: The Scoring Pioneer
Long before the dynasty years, Bob Love was the offensive engine of the Bulls in the 1970s. A three-time All-Star and consistent scorer, Love helped build the foundation of the franchise. His jersey was rightfully retired as a tribute to his prolific impact.
#7. Horace Grant: The Blue-Collar Champion
A defensive cornerstone of the first three-peat, Horace Grant embraced the dirty work. His rebounding, shot-blocking, and mid-range jumper provided balance to a star-heavy roster. Often overlooked, Grant’s role was essential to Chicago’s early championship success.
#6. Artis Gilmore: Dominance in the Paint
Artis Gilmore was a towering figure who anchored the Bulls during the late '70s and early '80s. With strong rebounding, efficient scoring, and elite shot-blocking, Gilmore earned multiple All-Star nods and remains one of the greatest centers in Bulls history.
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#5. Jimmy Butler: The Self-Made Superstar
Jimmy Butler worked his way from the end of the bench to All-Star status. Known for his tenacity, defense, and scoring ability, Butler became the face of the Bulls during a transitional era. His work ethic and no-nonsense approach left a lasting legacy in Chicago.
#4. Dennis Rodman: The Ultimate Hustler
Few players brought the chaos and control that Dennis Rodman did. As the league’s premier rebounder and agitator, Rodman gave the Bulls their defensive bite during the second three-peat. His intensity and willingness to do the dirty work helped keep the dynasty alive.
#3. Derrick Rose: The MVP That Inspired a City
Derrick Rose took the league—and his city—by storm. His explosive drives, fearless play, and MVP season in 2011 reignited Bulls basketball. Despite injuries cutting his peak short, Rose remains one of the most beloved and electrifying players in franchise history.
#2. Scottie Pippen: The Do-It-All Defender
Scottie Pippen’s versatility, defense, and selfless play made him one of the greatest small forwards of all time. He was the perfect partner for Jordan and a leader in his own right. With six titles and seven All-Star appearances, Pippen’s impact is forever etched in Bulls history.
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#1. Michael Jordan: The Greatest of All Time
No surprise here. Michael Jordan redefined basketball greatness and elevated the Bulls to global fame. With six rings, five MVPs, and an unrivaled competitive drive, Jordan became a legend who transcended sport. He is, simply, the greatest Chicago Bull—and possibly the greatest player—of all time.
