Over time, the NBA players who are least liked change, and why people don’t like them can depend on personal views. Players like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Vince Carter, Bill Laimbeer, Rudy Gobert, Lonzo Ball, Chris Paul, Joel Embiid, Grayson Allen, Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook, Matt Barnes, Reggie Miller, Isiah Thomas, and Patrick Beverley often come up in discussions.
Their lack of popularity might be because of how they act during games, including being too proud or playing unfairly, or because of problems they’ve had outside of the game. This list dives into the 15 most hated NBA players, exploring what exactly makes them so polarizing.
1. LeBron James
LeBron James, highly touted since high school, made significant impacts in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, earning Rookie of the Year and leading them to their first finals in 2007. Despite management’s efforts to build a competitive team around him, playoff disappointments led to his controversial move to Miami in 2010, sparking outrage among Cavs fans.
James’ on and off-court demeanor, including self-identifying as ‘King James’ despite lacking championships at the time, has fueled both admiration and criticism.
2. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant faced significant backlash for joining the Golden State Warriors, seen by many as chasing easy championships. His later move to the Brooklyn Nets and impressive performance in the 2021 playoffs briefly improved his reputation.
Yet, Durant’s recent trade demand, specifically targeting dominant teams like the Phoenix Suns, Miami Heat, and Boston Celtics, has reignited criticism, portraying him as seeking easy paths to success.
3. Draymond Green
Draymond Green is admired by Golden State Warriors fans but often disliked by others, mainly due to his reputation as an outspoken trash talker, despite not being the team’s top player. His frequent arguing for calls and embracing the animosity from opposing fans have become signature aspects of his career.
4. Kyrie Irving
Since requesting a trade away from the Cleveland Cavaliers, Kyrie Irving’s career has faced challenges. His tenure with the Boston Celtics was marred by perceived attitude problems, and his time with the Brooklyn Nets has been tumultuous, notably due to missing most of a season after refusing vaccination and taking unannounced absences. These actions have alienated many NBA fans.
5. James Harden
James Harden has faced significant criticism for forcing trades from the Houston Rockets and Brooklyn Nets in consecutive years.
His departure from Houston was controversial, as he appeared out of shape and underperformed, and his final game for Brooklyn saw him score only 4 points before sitting out, claiming no injury. These actions have led to a backlash from fans and media, many of whom took pleasure in his subsequent playoff disappointments.
6. Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook, once celebrated for his triple-double achievements with the Oklahoma City Thunder, has faced criticism for his on-court trash-talking and off-court complaints.
His lack of self-awareness regarding how his bravado might be perceived has been highlighted, especially during a challenging season with the Los Angeles Lakers. His continued boastful comments after underwhelming performances have resulted in a loss of support from many fans who once admired him.
7. Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant is recognized as an NBA legend for his competitiveness, crucial game performances, and five titles with the Lakers, though he’s also seen as divisive due to his perceived selfishness and confidence. His tendency to choose difficult shots over teamwork has sparked debates and friction, especially with teammate Shaquille O’Neal.
Bryant’s image suffered after a 2003 rape accusation, which, although dismissed, damaged his reputation and led to hostility from fans, particularly at away games. Despite these issues, Bryant’s basketball prowess is undisputed, but they have contributed to his unpopularity outside his loyal fan base.
8. Paul Pierce
Paul Pierce, following the Boston Celtics’ 2008 NBA championship win over Kobe Bryant’s Lakers, boldly claimed he was the best player in the NBA, stirring controversy and criticism. Despite Pierce’s confidence and leadership, critics argue his claim was exaggerated, especially considering his team’s mediocre performance before joining forces with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen.
Pierce’s proclamation, along with his assertion of being among the greatest shooters after a three-point contest win, highlighted the fine line between confidence and conceit. A memorable moment fueling criticism was his dramatic return from an apparent severe injury in Game 1 of the 2008 NBA Finals, which skeptics found theatrical.
9. Dennis Rodman
Dennis Rodman’s polarizing reputation stems largely from his controversial behavior both on and off the basketball court. His aggressive demeanor and public incidents have tarnished his image, leading to a significant portion of fans disliking him. Despite his effective defense against renowned players like Shaquille O’Neal and his candidness about challenges in guarding talents like James Worthy, Rodman’s confrontational style and legal issues post-retirement have overshadowed his on-court achievements.
His appearances in media, such as on The Celebrity Apprentice, have further solidified his negative persona, distancing him from the public’s favor.
10. Latrell Sprewell
Latrell Sprewell’s career is marked by controversy, from his infamous comment regarding a contract offer to his altercation with a coach. At the end of his tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Sprewell rejected a $21 million contract over three years, claiming it wasn’t enough to feed his family—a statement that sparked widespread criticism among NBA fans and was seen as a turning point in public sentiment against him.
Additionally, his career was marred by a violent incident in 1997 when, during a Golden State Warriors practice, he choked coach P.J. Carlesimo after being criticized, leading to his dismissal from the team. These episodes not only highlighted issues of ego and conduct in professional sports but also significantly impacted Sprewell’s reputation and career trajectory.
11. Ron Artest
Ron Artest, known for his attempts to change his image after the “Malice at the Palace” incident, still faces its impact on his reputation. Growing up in a tough New York neighborhood, Artest was familiar with violence from a young age.
His most infamous moment came during a 2004 game when, after a confrontation on the court, he attacked fans in the stands following being hit by a drink. This resulted in an unprecedented 73-game suspension. Despite later successes, including an NBA championship, this event remains a defining aspect of his career.
12. Lance Stephenson
Lance Stephenson is known for his divisive presence in the NBA, earning significant criticism for his controversial conduct both on and off the court. His questionable professional choices and on-court strategies often hindered his team, despite his undeniable passion, energy, and playmaking skills. Stephenson’s tendency for trash-talking and provoking opponents has cemented his status as a contentious figure, sparking both admiration and disdain among fans and fellow players.
This mixed reception stems from his aggressive “never back down” approach and on-court behavior, leading to a complex love-hate dynamic with audiences who appreciate his fervor for basketball yet criticize his approach to the game.
13. Christian Laettner
Christian Laettner’s notoriety in the NBA and college basketball largely stemmed from his divisive personality and actions both on and off the court. Widely regarded as one of the most disliked college basketball players ever, his reputation for bullying, poor sportsmanship, and arrogance fueled widespread disdain. Laettner’s behavior, including allegations of appropriating black cultural expressions in a manner that was perceived negatively, contributed further to the negative views held against him.
Despite achieving significant on-court success, such as winning two national championships and setting NCAA Tournament records, these accomplishments were overshadowed by his polarizing behavior. The ESPN 30 for 30 documentary “I Hate Christian Laettner” delves into the complex mix of reasons behind the enduring animosity towards him, including issues of privilege, racial dynamics, his bullying demeanor, his sports achievements, and his physical appearance.
14. Karl Malone
Off-court controversies, particularly concerning his personal life, have tarnished Karl Malone’s legacy, leading to mixed feelings among NBA fans.
15. Dwight Howard
Dwight Howard encountered considerable criticism, partly due to a scandal involving allegations about his sexuality, including a lawsuit with accusations of assault and explicit communications. This controversy negatively affected his public image.
Furthermore, the intense scrutiny of his personal life by sports fans, often reflecting broader homophobia within the NBA community, also contributed to the backlash against him. The reasons behind the animosity are complex and diverse.
Bottom Line
This list showcases the diversity of reasons players can become disliked, from on-court behavior to off-court controversies. While being “hated” is often seen negatively, it’s also a testament to the passion and emotional investment fans have in the game of basketball. In the end, these players have all left indelible marks on the NBA, for better or worse.