In the world of basketball, ankle breakers are dribbling moves that cause another player to lose their balance or misjudge the direction of the ball, usually causing them to fall over, stumble, or flail. NBA ankle breakers are one of the most humiliating ways to concede. However, they do make for a hugely entertaining clip.
From the technical brilliance of Allen Iverson to Russell Westbrook embarrassing Luke Ridnour, there have been plenty of jaw-dropping instances of ankle breakers in the NBA. On this page, you can find our top 10 picks, alongside a video clip to accompany each!
10. Nate Robinson Makes Reggie Jackson’s do the Splits
In tenth place is the humorous ankle breaker delivered by Nate Robinson in a match between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Golden State Warriors. Nate sent Reggie onto the ground before sinking a two-pointer in the game, with Jackson almost performing a full split on his own free throw line.
This elicited both awe and laughter from the crowd, making this a truly unforgettable moment in NBA history!
9. Dwyane Wade’s Move Against Raja Bell
In a game between the Miami Heat and Charlotte Bobcats, Dwyane Wade executed a skilful move that left Raja Bell stumbling and eventually slipping a solid 20 feet on the floor.
This incident raised eyebrows due to Bell’s reputation for flopping. Some questioned whether the floor was slippery, while others marvelled at Wade’s skill in creating such a play!
8. Chris Paul’s Crazy Crossover Against Anthony Carter
Chris Paul’s crazy crossover against Anthony Carter stunned the crowd with its mind-blowing execution and unbelievable dribbling skills. The move displayed Paul’s remarkable ball-handling ability, leaving Carter embarrassingly off balance on the court, almost performing a dance for the fans in attendance.
It was an unforgettable basketball manoeuvre that solidified Chris Paul as a sensational point guard renowned for his incredible crossover combinations.
7. Allen Iverson’s Step Over Tyronn Lue
Next, we arrive at Allen Iverson’s unforgettable step over Tyronn Lue. This iconic moment took place during the 2001 NBA Finals between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Allen Iverson’s step over Tyronn Lue symbolized his dominance and fearlessness on the court. In game one of the finals, with just under a minute left in overtime, Iverson executed an incredibly mesmerizing crossover move that left Tyronn Lue stumbling backwards.
To add insult to injury, as Lue fell to the ground trying to recover from Iverson’s move, Iverson casually stepped over him before nailing a clutch jumper. This action became etched into NBA lore as one of those moments that encapsulate both skill and swagger in basketball history.
6. Damon Stoudamire’s Crossover Against Ron Harper
Damon Stoudamire impressed all in attendance with a skilful crossover against Ron Harper, followed by an intense emotional stare-down, with Stoudamire even stopping briefly to admire the fallen Harper before sinking his shop.
The play was praised not just for its technical brilliance but also for the emotional aftermath it sparked between the two players, adding fuel to their on-court confrontation in what was already a fiery match. This showdown solidified Stoudamire’s reputation as one of the top point guards known for his exceptional ball-handling abilities and strategic prowess during intense basketball games.
5. Russell Westbrook’s Play Against Luke Ridnour
Russell Westbrook’s explosive offence left Luke Ridnour struggling to keep up. His speed and agility made it nearly impossible for Ridnour to contain him on the court. The matchup demonstrated Westbrook’s exceptional footwork, showcasing his dominance over Ridnour as he outplayed him with remarkable offensive prowess.
There is speculation that Ridnour stepped on his teammate’s foot during this ankle breaker, although he was undoubtedly on his way down regardless.
4. Deron Williams’ Filthy Crossover Against Jason Terry
Deron Williams showcased his exceptional ball-handling skills when he pulled off a filthy crossover against Jason Terry. The move left Terry stumbling and struggling to keep up, earning widespread praise for its sheer nastiness.
Commentators were quick to react with amazement at the jaw-dropping manoeuvre, solidifying it as one of the standout basketball highlights in recent memory.
3. Stephon Marbury’s Move Against Yao Ming
Stephon Marbury’s move against Yao Ming was an amusing and unexpected moment, given Yao’s towering height. A skilful dribble from Marbury sent the 7 foot 6 Ming to the floor, which was received with great enthusiasm from the Sun’s bench!
In an unusual turn of events, Marbury executed a skilful dribble, showcasing his. The move made a lasting impact in the world of NBA crossovers, highlighting Marbury’s precision and dexterity as one of the best ball handlers in the league.
2. Allen Iverson’s Double Ankle-Breaker Against Antonio Daniels
In a dazzling display of athleticism and skill, Iverson unleashed a mesmerizing double ankle-breaker against Antonio Daniels in a game between the Washington Wizards and Philadelphia 76ers in 2006.
This spectacular play left Daniels falling twice on the same sequence, making it not just one but two incredible moves that completely caught his opponent off guard. Iverson’s exceptional dribbling technique and agility were fully on display during this unforgettable moment, however, this isn’t his crowning appearance on our list!
1. Allen Iverson Crossing Michael Jordan
Allen Iverson’s iconic crossover move against Michael Jordan remains one of the most enduring moments in NBA history. The play highlighted Iverson’s unmatched dribbling skills and solidified his status as a legendary player in the world of basketball.
It not only etched a lasting memory in sports history but also reinforced A.I.’s reputation as the ultimate crossover artist, further solidifying his position as one of the most electrifying players in NBA history. Of course, the fact that it was against the future GOAT adds to the prestige of the moment, too!
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Top 10 NBA Ankle Breakers
Ankle breakers are when a dribbling player moves in an unpredictable way, causing confusion and space on the court. In many instances, it also leads to the defending player falling to the floor.
The best NBA Ankle Breaker of all time was the one delivered by Allen Iverson on Michael Jordan. The GOAT was turned inside out before Iverson would score 2 points for the Philadelphia 76ers.
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