Basketball is one of the world’s most popular sports not only because of the riveting action on the court, but also thanks to the entertaining characters of the court. Thanks to social media, fans can take a closer look at the lives of their favorite players, many of whom regularly post pictures and videos displaying various aspects of their lives including their families, hobbies, lifestyles and fashion choices.
Nowadays athletes from all sports are scene as fashion icons, with many of them used by brands to help sell products. However, basketball stars have always had a natural charisma, which is now more apparent then ever through Instagram, Twitter and TikTok, as well as on the court where even their jerseys, sneakers and sweatbands are now considered fashion pieces as well as athletic apparel. Here are some of the most fashionable NBA players of all time.
Dennis Rodman
Dennis Rodman’s name has continued to be relevant long after his retirement thanks to his legendary performances with the Chicago Bulls, who he helped to three back-to-back NBA championships from 1996- 1998. He is also remembered as one of the most eccentric sports stars ever with his bold fashion choices both on and off the court that have inspired both fans and future NBA stars. While starring for the Detroit pistons and later the Bulls, Rodman was instantly recognizable thanks to his colorful hairstyles which included leopard print, blond, red and pink. Off the court he is known for bold fashion choices such as facial piercings, dresses and make up, all of which have ensured that his fame and influence extend beyond basketball fans.
Russell Westbrook
Things haven’t exactly gone to plan for Russell Westbrook since he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, the idea of him linking up with Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony and Anthony Davis was supposed to bring his first ever championship ring but it isn’t looking likely. Regardless of how his career is going Westbrook always makes an effort to look good off the court. His edgy choices have included bare chested pieces, kilts and dyed hair, looks which he has displayed at major events like New York Fashion Week. His choices aren’t always popular, but they always go viral with millions of people discussing his outfits.
Allen Iverson
Despite never winning an NBA championship, Allen Iverson is fondly remembered as one of the greatest players ever. He made his name at the Philadelphia 76ers, where he famously crossed over Michael Jordan in his rookie season. While its commonplace to see players covered in tattoos nowadays, Iverson proudly displayed his ink at a time when most were too worried about perception to take such risks. Off the court he would regularly dress in contemporary street wear on occasions when others would wear suits, inspiring thousands of future players to embrace their personalities rather than trying to fit in. As well as countless basketball players, musicians have also named Iverson as an inspiration, proving how impactful he was.
Lebron James
No matter where you stand on the Lebron vs Jordan GOAT debate, it is undeniable that Lebron James is one of the greatest basketball players ever. He has won four NBA Championships and no one is betting against him adding to that total before he retires. In a career that has spanned nearly 20 years, he’s always looked fresh on the court, thank to his Nike shoe range. He isn’t afraid of public opinion, consistently pushing the boundaries with his fashion choices. Whether he’s going for a formal look or a casual one, Lebron always looks dressed for the occasion. He’s also not afraid to make political fashion statements, regularly showing his support for causes he feels strongly about through messaging on his clothes.
Honorable mention
There are some younger NBA stars who are also making a name for themselves in the fashion stakes. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one name that many are seeing as an heir to Russell Westbrook with his brave choices on display the Met Gala and New York Fashion week. If he continues impressing, he’s sure to be a newer addition to all time NBA fashion lists.