5 Bad Boys of NBA – Past and Present 

The NBA is known not only for the skill of its players, but also for the colorful personalities and controversy that many of them court. These bad boys of basketball always bring their A game, intense focus and lots of entertainment, and the effect they have left on the sport cannot be denied.

The NBA is incredibly popular the world over, more so amongst sports bettors who are obsessed with not just league events and tournaments, but also their favorite players. Basketball stars are often seen as gods in the sporting world, and fans’ dedication to putting their money where their mouth is can find top betting sites in Australia and around the globe, such as prop bets on a big game or their most beloved NBA player.

Some of the basketball players who have left their mark on and off the court include:

5. Dennis Rodman

When you think of NBA and bad boys, the first player that springs to mind is unquestionably Dennis Rodman. You don’t even have to follow basketball to recognize that name. 

The flashy forward gained notoriety for his dyed hair, tattoos, and eccentric attire but he was also a very accomplished player who helped the Chicago Bulls to win three straight championships in the late 1990s. Rodman soon won over the hearts of the crowd with his aggressive, in-your-face and confident gameplay. He was renowned for his strong rebounding, gritty defense, and relentless intensity.

However, Rodman was also notorious for his off-court antics, which included everything from dating Madonna to getting arrested for public intoxication. He was never afraid to speak his mind, and his often controversial statements and behavior sometimes overshadowed his impressive on-court accomplishments. No matter though, his contributions to the NBA and sports culture as a whole cannot be overlooked. 

4. Allen Iverson

Another bad boy who made a significant impact on the league was Allen Iverson. The point guard was renowned for his remarkable ball handling skills, lightning-quick speed, and scoring accuracy. He guided the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals in 2001, and his courageous play won him a huge following of loyal fans.

Iverson was also known for his confrontational attitude and sometimes turbulent relationships with coaches and teammates. He famously clashed with Larry Brown, his coach in Philadelphia, and was sometimes criticized for his supposed lack of commitment to practice and team play. Yet, Iverson’s undeniable passion and talent for basketball has made him ‘god-like’ amongst fans, and his influence can still be seen today in younger pro players.

3. Kobe Bryant

Perhaps no bad boy in NBA history was more polarizing than Kobe Bryant. Undoubtedly his professional life made an impact on the history of basketball, as did his untimely death. Bryant was one of the best, amassing fans from all over the world due to his extraordinary talent and spirit of competitiveness.

Bryant was also known for his fiery personality and sometimes abrasive approach to the game. He and Shaquille O’Neal, a former teammate, had a highly publicized falling out, and he was occasionally criticized for his on-court lack of sportsmanship and compassion. Yet, his obvious love for the games and unmatched talent, means that his name will forever echo down the halls of any professional basketball league. 

Of course, bad boys are not limited to the past. A new generation of players is making their mark on the NBA today with their distinct combination of ferocity, talent, and attitude.

2. Draymond Green

One of these guys with the biggest name is Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors. The power forward is noted for his fierce defense, persistent energy, and capacity to psychologically wear down his opponents. He is a multiple title winner and considered a top defender in the NBA currently. 

Green is also renowned for his occasional aggressive temperament and has engaged in a number of well-publicized fights with coaches and other players. But because of his love for the game and his persistent dedication to his team, he is an adored character among Warriors supporters and a respected rival among players around the league.

1. Russell Westbrook

Another bad boy making waves in the NBA today is Russell Westbrook of the Washington Wizards. The point guard is known for his incredible athleticism, aggressive playing style, and fiery competitive spirit. He has been named league MVP, won many scoring titles and is dynamic in his all-round gameplay. 

Westbrook is entertaining and considered a bad boy for many reasons, not the least of which is witnessing him lose control because of his pathological competitiveness. When the Washington Wizards big man Nene shoved Westbrook during a game in November 2022, Westbrook got right back up and was ready to rumble. He struck Nene with both hands, earning himself an ejection, and cementing the role of bad boy to many viewers at home.