Most of the greats have at least one signature move they can regularly go to. A move for when they’re in the toughest situation, one or two dribbles, along with something like an up fake, can help them score.
For Hakeem Olajuwon, a two-time champion and Hall of Famer, that move was the “Dream Shake.” During his 18-year career, Olajuwon routinely faked out his opponents around the low block by using his patented move.
His effectiveness in the post helped him become the Rockets’ all-time leading scorer, tallying 26,511 points with the franchise.
With his elite footwork and post awareness, Olajuwon is arguably the best post player ever.
Olajuwon’s move is indicative of the era he played in, where bigs reigned down low. But James Harden’s stepback jumper shows how perimeter-oriented today’s game is.
Shortly before the NBA season was suspended, ESPN’s Kirk Goldsberry reported that Harden had made the most stepback 3-pointers in the league.
A two-time scoring champ and MVP, Harden has used his stepback to create enough space for jumpers and rock defenders on their heels. He’s in his eighth season with Houston, and his mesmerizing stepback jumper has helped him climb the Rockets’ record books. He ranks first all time in Rockets history for made 3-pointers (1,976).
Olajuwon’s and Harden’s signature moves are two of the best ever. Which one do you think is best? You can vote here in our poll below.
