Rebounding is a critical aspect of basketball, often determining the outcome of games by providing teams with additional scoring opportunities and preventing opponents from capitalizing on missed shots. Throughout NBA history, several players have distinguished themselves as exceptional rebounders, consistently demonstrating tenacity and skill under the basket. As of April 2025, the active leaders in career rebounds are LeBron James, DeAndre Jordan, and Andre Drummond.Sportskeeda
LeBron James
LeBron James, currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, leads all active players with 11,697 career rebounds. Known primarily for his scoring and playmaking abilities, James has also been a formidable presence on the boards. His versatility allows him to contribute significantly in various facets of the game, including rebounding. Over his illustrious career, James has maintained an average of approximately 7.5 rebounds per game. His exceptional basketball IQ and physical prowess enable him to position himself effectively, securing rebounds against taller and more traditional big men. James’s commitment to conditioning and longevity has allowed him to remain a top performer in his 22nd NBA season.
DeAndre Jordan
DeAndre Jordan, a veteran center for the Denver Nuggets, has amassed 10,418 rebounds over his 16-season career. Jordan’s rebounding prowess is highlighted by his two-time NBA rebounding leader titles and his career-high average of 15.2 rebounds per game during the 2017-2018 season with the LA Clippers. Standing at 6’11” with an impressive wingspan, Jordan excels in both offensive and defensive rebounding. His ability to read the trajectory of the ball and his physical attributes make him a dominant force on the glass. In addition to his rebounding, Jordan holds the NBA record for the highest career field goal percentage at 67.4%, underscoring his efficiency around the basket. His contributions were instrumental in the Nuggets’ championship run in 2023. Sportskeeda+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia
Andre Drummond
Andre Drummond, currently with the Chicago Bulls, has recorded 10,238 rebounds in his 12-season career. Drummond has led the league in rebounding multiple times, showcasing his exceptional ability to control the boards. At 6’10” and 279 pounds, his combination of size, strength, and agility allows him to dominate the paint. Drummond’s career-best rebounding average stands at 16.0 rebounds per game during the 2017-2018 season with the Detroit Pistons. Notably, he became the second-youngest player to reach 5,000 career rebounds at 24 years and 76 days, a testament to his early impact in the league. Sportskeeda+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia
Historical Context
While James, Jordan, and Drummond lead active players in rebounds, they are still chasing the records set by NBA legends. Wilt Chamberlain holds the all-time record with 23,924 rebounds, followed closely by Bill Russell with 21,620. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, known for his scoring prowess, also amassed an impressive 17,440 rebounds, placing him third on the all-time list. These figures underscore the extraordinary rebounding abilities of past players and set a high benchmark for current and future athletes.Sportskeeda+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+5iHaveNet+5Statista+5
The Importance of Rebounding
Rebounding is more than just a statistic; it reflects a player’s determination, positioning, and understanding of the game. Securing rebounds can shift the momentum of a game, providing teams with second-chance points and limiting opponents’ opportunities. Players like James, Jordan, and Drummond exemplify the significance of rebounding through their consistent performances and contributions to their respective teams.
Conclusion
As of April 2025, LeBron James, DeAndre Jordan, and Andre Drummond stand out as the active leaders in NBA career rebounds. Their achievements highlight the importance of rebounding in basketball and pay homage to the legendary figures who set the standards in this domain. As they continue their careers, these players not only aim to climb higher on the all-time rebounding list but also to inspire future generations with their dedication and skill on the court.
