In the NBA, confidence is a prerequisite—but sometimes, that confidence tips into full-blown main character syndrome. These players didn’t just want to be the star of the show—they wanted to be the show, the director, and maybe even the team owner while they were at it.
Some of these guys were so good you almost couldn’t blame them, while others let the ego outrun the production. Either way, they carried themselves like the franchise couldn’t function without their input on everything from play calls to popcorn brands.
15. Dwight Howard
At his peak, Dwight was a dominant force who loved the spotlight just as much as the rebounds. He spent years acting like Orlando should orbit around him—until the magic wore off.
14. James Harden
When he was the guy in Houston, everything had to go through Harden, on and off the court. And when things didn’t go his way, he had no problem disappearing into a new jersey.
13. Russell Westbrook
Nobody brings more energy, or more “I’m the man” vibes, than Russ. He played like the entire team was just a supporting cast in his personal action movie.
12. Kyrie Irving
Kyrie didn’t just want to be the star—he wanted to be the philosopher king of every locker room he entered. Between his takes and his tendency to go MIA, teams often felt like they were living in his orbit.
11. Carmelo Anthony
Melo was buckets, no doubt, but he wasn’t exactly known for adapting to a system. If the offense didn’t revolve around him, he wasn’t interested in participating.
10. Gilbert Arenas
Agent Zero brought fireworks, flash, and a heavy dose of self-importance. For a while, the Wizards really did revolve around him—until things blew up, literally and figuratively.
9. Allen Iverson
AI was a generational talent, but he made it clear he was never just one of the guys. From skipping practice to being the entire Sixers brand, Iverson never saw himself as part of a group project.
8. Karl-Anthony Towns
KAT has always carried himself like a franchise cornerstone, even when the results didn’t always back it up. He talks like a leader, but the team hasn’t quite followed him to the promised land. Maybe it’ll be different this year in New York.
7. Jimmy Butler
Jimmy’s a beast, but he brings alpha energy that doesn’t leave room for many co-stars. He’s built teams in his image—and made it clear if you’re not on board, you’re off the ride.
6. DeMarcus Cousins
Boogie wanted the ball, the locker room, and probably a say in the front office. The Kings let him run wild for years, and the results were as chaotic as you’d expect.
5. LeBron James
LeBron is one of the greatest ever, but let’s be real—he’s also the GM, the coach, and the marketing department. Every franchise he’s joined has learned it’s LeBron’s world and they’re just living in it.
4. Kobe Bryant
Kobe was obsessed with winning—but it had to be on his terms. He expected the Lakers to move mountains for him, and more often than not, they did.
3. Kevin Durant
KD says he just wants to hoop, but his constant movement and need for validation say otherwise. He may not demand the spotlight, but he still acts like the franchise should reflect his vibe.
Read More: 25 Athletes Who Took Losing Very Personally
2. Michael Jordan
Jordan earned every bit of his ego, but make no mistake—he ruled the Bulls like a basketball dictator. If MJ wanted it, MJ got it, and that included control over teammates, coaches, and beyond.
Read More: 15 NBA Players Who Made Every Team About Them
1. Shaquille O’Neal
Shaq was a larger-than-life presence who made every team feel like his personal brand extension. When he played, he didn’t just want to win—he wanted to dominate the entire franchise dynamic too.
Read More: 15 NBA Stars Who Were All About Me, Me, Me
