Dime Magazine put together a very interesting piece yesterday where they asked their readers to define greatness.

Bill Russell won 11 NBA championships.

Michael Jordan is the greatest player of all-time.

Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Larry Bird aren't far behind.

What made those guys great?

My definition of greatness is rather simple:

1. Excellence on both ends (offensively and defensively)

2. Ability to make others better

3. Clutch play

4. Winning

My first list included championships but I don't think a player needs to win a championship or multiple championships (although it certainly doesn't hurt) to be considered great.

But they do have to win.

And win consistently.

Ballerblogger.com