While the NBA has long been a stage for players who exude sportsmanship and class, it also breeds the most hated NBA players. Certain players, whether due to their on-court antics, controversial statements, or rivalries, have found themselves at the center of disdain from fans and opponents alike.
These individuals become polarizing figures, often drawing the ire of entire fan bases. From notorious floppers to relentless trash talkers, the most hated NBA players evoke strong emotions that transcend the game itself. Their presence can ignite fierce debates during NBA picks, with supporters passionately defending their skills while detractors vehemently criticize their behavior.
Let’s dive into the lives and careers of these controversial athletes. We’ll examine what made them so despised, and how they navigated the complexities of fame. Prepare to uncover the stories behind the most hated NBA players who have earned their notoriety.
10. Reggie Miller
Career Stats: 18.2 PPG 3.0 RPG 3.0 APG; 47.1 FG%, 39.5 FG3%
Reggie Miller is a former NBA player widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in basketball history. Miller played his entire 18-season career with the Indiana Pacers.
Known for his clutch performances, particularly in the playoffs, Miller became a key figure in the Pacers’ success during the 1990s and early 2000s. He is best remembered for his sharp shooting, including his ability to hit big three-pointers in critical moments. Miller holds the NBA record for most three-pointers made at the time of his retirement.
Miller is also one of the most hated NBA players, largely due to his on-court persona and rivalry with the New York Knicks. His trash-talking, particularly in his famous battles with Knicks fans and players like Spike Lee during the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals, made him a villain in New York.
His antics, combined with his knack for hitting game-winning shots, earned him the nickname “the enemy” in many arenas. Despite his success, the intense rivalries and his cocky demeanor solidified Miller as a polarizing NBA player.
9. Vince Carter
Career Stats: 16.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.1 APG; 43.5 FG%, 37.1 FG3%
Vince Carter is a legendary NBA player known for his exceptional athleticism, scoring ability, and dazzling dunks. Carter played 22 seasons in the NBA with the Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic, and Dallas Mavericks.
He is widely regarded as one of the best dunkers in NBA history, with his iconic dunk in the 2000 Slam Dunk Contest remaining a highlight of his career. Carter was also a multiple-time All-Star and a key player for several franchises.
Despite his incredible talent and longevity, Carter has often been one of the more divisive figures in NBA history, although not as universally hated as some of the more infamous players. A large part of the negative sentiment toward him came from his reputation during his later years in the league.
Many critics accused him of “coasting” and not putting forth maximum effort, especially after his prime years in Toronto. His departure from the Raptors in 2004, which many fans viewed as a “trade request” after the team struggled, also left a sour taste among some of the Toronto faithful. Following Carter’s exit, each time he would play in Toronto, the fans would shower him with boos.
Though Carter earned admiration for his career and for adapting to various roles throughout his long tenure, his perceived lack of commitment and drama during his mid-career years made him a target of criticism, leading to mixed opinions among NBA fans.
8. Russell Westbrook
*Career Stats: 21.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 8.1 APG; 43.9 FG%, 30.5 FG3%
*still active
Russell Westbrook is a dynamic and explosive NBA player known for his relentless energy, athleticism, and aggressive playing style. Westbrook was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2008 and quickly became one of the league’s most electrifying guards.
He won the 2017 MVP award and holds the record for the most triple-doubles in a season. Westbrook’s ability to dominate on both ends of the court has made him a standout player throughout his career. His unbridled passion made him a favorite for NBA betting odds during his prime.
However, Westbrook is also considered one of the most hated players in NBA history. His fiery demeanor, perceived selfishness in terms of shot selection, and tendency to clash with teammates and opponents alike have earned him a reputation for being difficult to work with.
Additionally, his emotional responses to criticism from fans and the media, as well as his aggressive playing style, have rubbed many the wrong way.
Despite his impressive stats and achievements, Westbrook’s polarizing personality, combined with his tendency to dominate the ball and sometimes make erratic decisions, have made him a target for widespread criticism.
7. Bruce Bowen
Career Stats: 6.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 1.2 APG; 40.9 FG%, 39.3 FG3%
Bruce Bowen is a retired NBA player known for his exceptional defense and role as a key contributor to the San Antonio Spurs’ success in the 2000s. Bowen was a 3-and-D specialist, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player.
His defensive prowess helped the Spurs win three NBA championships (2003, 2005, 2007), and he was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team multiple times during his career.
Despite his success, Bowen is often considered one of the most hated NBA players due to his physical and sometimes dirty playing style. He was frequently criticized for his aggressive defensive tactics, including his tendency to make controversial, hard fouls and for his actions like stepping under shooters, which led to accusations of “dirty” play.
His rivalry with stars like Kobe Bryant, who accused him of using excessive physicality, and his reputation as a “flopper” made him a polarizing figure among fans and players alike. While his defensive skills were undeniable, Bowen’s on-court tactics often stirred up strong emotions and earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most disliked players.
6. Kobe Bryant
Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG; 44.7 FG%, 32.9 FG3%
Kobe Bryant was an iconic NBA player, widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game. Bryant was drafted directly from high school by the Charlotte Hornets in 1996, then traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Over a 20-season career with the Lakers, he won five NBA championships and earned numerous accolades, including two NBA Finals MVPs, 18 All-Star selections, and the 2008 NBA MVP award. Known for his scoring ability, footwork, and fierce competitiveness, Kobe became a global basketball icon.
However, Kobe was also one of the most hated players in NBA history, especially early in his career. His arrogance and “Mamba Mentality,” which often came across as self-centered and obsessive, rubbed many fans the wrong way. His perceived lack of humility, especially during his early years in the league when he was seen as trying to overshadow teammates like Shaquille O’Neal, fueled criticism.
Additionally, his on-court feuds with opponents, including his notorious rivalry with Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs, and his reported difficulty in getting along with coaches and teammates, added to his polarizing reputation.
While respected for his incredible talent, Kobe’s intense demeanor and rivalry-driven play made him a figure that many fans loved to hate.
5. Chris Paul
*Career Stats: 17.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 9.3 APG; 47.0 FG%, 36.9 FG3%
*still active
Chris Paul is a highly skilled NBA point guard known for his elite basketball IQ, playmaking ability, and leadership on the court. Paul has played for several NBA teams like the New Orleans Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, and Phoenix Suns.
Paul earned multiple All-Star selections and led the league in assists and steals on several occasions. This made him a must-have player that NBA betting tips suggest for fantasy drafts.
That said, Chris Paul is also considered one of the most hated players in NBA history. His on-court antics, including his notorious trash-talking, flopping, and tendency to antagonize opponents, have earned him a reputation as a “villain” to many fans.
Paul’s competitive nature often leads to clashes with both players and referees, and his occasional involvement in heated on-court altercations has fueled his polarizing image.
Additionally, his leadership style, while effective, has sometimes been seen as demanding and difficult by teammates and coaches, further contributing to his status as a disliked figure in the league.
Despite his immense talent and success, Paul’s fiery demeanor and penchant for stirring up drama have made him a target for criticism and dislike.
4. Metta World Peace
Career Stats: 13.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.7 APG; 41.4 FG%, 33.9 FG3%
Metta World Peace, formerly known as Ron Artest, is a retired NBA player known for his intense defensive skills. On top of this, his volatile personality, and controversial behavior both on and off the court also follows him. World Peace played for several NBA teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings, Los Angeles Lakers, and others.
He was a key contributor to the Lakers’ 2010 NBA Championship, known for his defense and clutch play in the Finals. However, World Peace is often regarded as one of the most hated NBA players due to his erratic behavior and aggressive playing style.
He gained notoriety for his involvement in the infamous “Malice at the Palace” brawl in 2004, one of the most violent incidents in NBA history, where he charged into the stands and started fighting with fans. His tendency to get into altercations with opponents, his unpredictable demeanor, and his fiery temper on the court made him a polarizing figure.
Despite his skills and contributions to his teams, World Peace’s reputation as a “bad boy” of the NBA, coupled with his outbursts and on-court violence, led to widespread criticism and made him one of the most disliked players in the league.
3. Bill Laimbeer
Career Stats: 12.9 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 2.0 APG; 49.8 FG%, 32.6 FG3%
Bill Laimbeer is a former NBA player best known for his role as a tough, physical enforcer for the Detroit Pistons during the 1980s and early 1990s. Laimbeer was a key figure in the Pistons’ “Bad Boys” era, helping lead the team to back-to-back NBA championships in 1989 and 1990.
His rugged, no-nonsense playing style made him a dominant center. Laimbeer could also stretch the floor with his shooting ability.
Laimbeer earned a reputation as one of the most hated players in NBA history due to his controversial on-court antics and physical style of play. He frequently used dirty plays and aggressive behavior and push the limits of what was considered acceptable.
His willingness to antagonize opponents, provoke fights, and take cheap shots made him a target for widespread dislike. He had notable clashes with several high-profile players, including Larry Bird, whom he famously made hard fouls against during playoff matchups.
Despite his success, Laimbeer’s role in the “Bad Boys” Pistons and his reputation as a villain on the court earned him a lasting place among the most hated NBA players ever.
2. Kevin Durant
*Career Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG; 50.2 FG%, 38.8 FG3%
*still active
Kevin Durant’s scoring ability, versatility, and success make him a highly talented NBA player. The Seattle SuperSonics (which became the Oklahoma City Thunder) drafted Durant in 2007. He also played for the Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets. Currently, Durant plays for the Phoenix Suns.
He won an NBA MVP award in 2014 and became one of the league’s top scorers. His ability to score from anywhere on the floor makes him a match up nightmare.
However, Durant is also one of the most hated players in NBA history. This is largely due to his controversial decision to join the Golden State Warriors in 2016. After losing to the Warriors in 2016, Durant joined their 73-win team, sparking criticism for chasing easy championships.
His move sparked widespread criticism. Many felt betrayed – Durant left his former team to join the team that beat them. This was his attempt to chase rings rather than earning them through competition. Despite his success with the Warriors, including two NBA championships, Durant’s decision left a bitter taste for many fans. His decision to ring-chase contributed to his polarizing reputation as one of the most disliked players in NBA history.
1. LeBron James
*Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.4 APG; 50.7 FG%, 35.0 FG3%
*still active
LeBron James is one of the greatest NBA players of all time. His exceptional basketball IQ, versatility, leadership, and longevity earned him many accolades. The Cleveland Cavaliers drafted LeBron in 2003, and has played for the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has won four NBA championships and earned four NBA MVP awards. His amazing longevity and continued production at a high level also makes him a surefire candidate for NBA player props.
Despite his numerous accolades and accomplishments, LeBron is also one of the most hated NBA players. A large part of the animosity toward him stems from “The Decision”. His highly publicized decision to leave Cleveland for Miami in 2010 felt like a betrayal for Cleveland fans.
Additionally, his outspoken personality, constant media attention, and sometimes perceived arrogance have made him a polarizing figure. Admired for his skill and philanthropy, LeBron still became one of the most disliked players during his NBA prime.