If you're asking about "the best steal" in a sports context, particularly in basketball, then Gary Payton and John Stockton are two of the most iconic players known for their defensive prowess and ability to steal the ball.

 If you're asking about "the best steal" in a sports context, particularly in basketball, then Gary Payton and John Stockton are two of the most iconic players known for their defensive prowess and ability to steal the ball.

1. John Stockton:

• Why: Stockton holds the NBA record for most career steals with 3,265. Known for his incredible court awareness and quick hands, he was able to disrupt passing lanes and anticipate plays better than almost anyone else. Stockton was a defensive genius in his own right and is regarded as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

2. Gary Payton:

• Why: Known as "The Glove," Payton was one of the best on-ball defenders the game has ever seen. He was a nine-time NBA All-Defensive First Team member and had a tenacious, physical style that made it hard for opponents to protect the ball. He won the Defensive Player of the Year award in 1996, making him the only point guard to win that award.

3. Kawhi Leonard:

• Why: Leonard is known for his massive hands and defensive skills, particularly his ability to get clean steals while playing in a team’s system or one-on-one. He has won multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards and is often regarded as one of the best two-way players in modern basketball.

4. Michael Jordan:

• Why: Jordan was not only an offensive juggernaut but also a defensive mastermind. He led the league in steals three times and accumulated 2,514 steals during his career. His athleticism and ability to time his steals were key in his ability to disrupt opponents' offenses.

These players each had a different approach to steals, whether it was court awareness, quick hands, or pure athleticism. All are considered among the best when it comes to this specific defensive skill.