Ranking The Greatest Passing Centers In NBA History

10. Bam Adebayo - While not as well-known for his passing as some other centers, Adebayo's ability to catch the ball at the elbow and make quick decisions has proven invaluable for the Miami Heat throughout his career. He averaged 5.4 assists per game during his 2020-21 season, which remains his highest career average.

9. Alvan Adams - As a rookie center in 1975, Adams was ahead of his time with an incredible 5.6 assists per game. He averaged 4.1 assists for his entire career, with a single-game high of 13 assists. Adams also recorded 12 career triple-doubles, showcasing his unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.

8. Vlade Divac - The seven-foot-one, 243-pound Divac had the size of a traditional center but the instincts of a European guard. His high post play and creative passing style made him a standout player. He averaged 3.1 assists per game throughout his 16-year career, with a single-game high of 13 assists.

7. Marc Gasol - Known as the team's quarterback, Gasol could patiently wait for the right pass to develop and often did so from the top of the floor. His passing became more dangerous with the addition of stretching the floor in the modern game. He averaged 3.4 assists per game throughout his career, with a career-high of 14 assists in 2017.

6. Wes Unseld - While only 6'7", Unseld was undersized for a center but made up for it with incredible outlet passing skills. He could grab a rebound, take a dribble, and fire a full-court pass directly to a teammate. Unseld averaged 3.9 assists per game throughout his career, with a single-game high of 13 assists. He won Rookie of the Year and MVP in the 1968-69 season and led Washington to an NBA championship.

5. Arvydas Sabonis - Sabonis' assist numbers don't look impressive compared to the other players on this list, but his passing ability was undeniable. Standing 7'3" and weighing 279 lbs, Sabonis could see over defenses and deliver one-handed passes with either hand. His career high was nine assists, and he averaged 3.0 assists per game in the 1997-98 season.