Who is the greatest defensive player in the history of pro basketball?

I would say Bill Russell. How about you?

Who is the greatest defensive player in the history of pro basketball?nba ballers

I have to agree. Bill Russell changed the way the game was played by blocking shots and directing them towards his teammates instead of just swatting them into the stands like so many players today seem to want to do. His blocked shots led to fast breaks and points on the offensive end.

Who is the greatest defensive player in the history of pro basketball?nba draft lottery ,nba teams

I agree: Bill Russell it is!

Bill is a "large" guy, but his size did not deprive him of the quickness he needed to be a great defender. He was one of the first marquee players who specialized in defense. He certainly scored his points, but he really introduced the concept of defense-defense-defense! to the NBA.
Bill Russell
It would have to be Bill Russell.....but I don't think that Rodman got enough credit as well.
Russell was playing against slow white dudes that shot their lay-ups like ballerinas. i say ben wallace.
Bruce Bowen. I think any time you can successfully piss your opponent off, you've done your job. He's not dirty, just an excellent pest.
I like Dennis Rodman. Yea he was a freak but he was a machine. and he added a much needed toughness to teams.
Ron Artest, hahah
Bill Russell, without a doubt. Not only did he block shots, he kept them in play and frequently swatted them to teammates leading to easy fast break baskets. Today, most shot blockers swat it into the third row and pump their chests, while (duh!) the other team still has possession of the ball!

Number 2--a very underrated guy--Bobby Jones, who had the nickname, "The Secretary of Defense."