Every NBA player has a competitive side, but some guys take it to a new level. Whether it’s a blown call, a missed shot, or a teammate not running the play, these players have a knack for turning minor frustrations into full-blown tantrums.
Here are NBA stars who threw more fits than assists, proving that sometimes the biggest battles happen off the scoreboard.
23. Rajon Rondo
Rondo’s court vision is legendary, but so is his ability to lose it on a dime. From clashing with coaches to giving refs the death stare, Rondo’s passion sometimes spills over.
22. DeMarcus Cousins
Few players could match Cousins’ combination of skill and volatility. When the big man felt disrespected, the only thing that matched his rebounding numbers were his technical fouls.
21. Dennis Rodman
Rodman’s on-court chaos was matched only by his off-court antics. Rodman was front and center if there was a scrap to be found or a ref to annoy.
20. Kevin Garnett
KG’s intensity was unmatched, and he wasn’t afraid to let everyone know. Trash talk, chest pounding, and in-your-face intensity were all part of the package.
19. Patrick Beverley
Beverley never met a confrontation he didn’t like. He plays like his career depends on every possession, and he’ll let you know about it if you cross him.
18. Matt Barnes
Barnes embraced the role of NBA enforcer, rarely backing down from a dust-up. He was as likely to throw a shove as he was a pass on some nights.
17. Marcus Smart
Smart’s passion is undeniable, but it sometimes gets the better of him. Flops, frowns, and fiery debates with refs are part of his game.
16. Kendrick Perkins
Perkins might have retired, but his on-court scowls and off-court Twitter rants keep his legacy alive. If you crossed him, you heard about it.
15. Stephen Jackson
Jackson’s “no one messes with my team” attitude made him a fan favorite and a technical foul magnet. He never hesitated to stand up for himself or his teammates.
14. Ron Artest (Metta World Peace)
Artest had a long history of emotional outbursts, capped by the infamous Malice at the Palace. He later tried to reinvent himself, but the intensity never entirely faded.
13. Charles Oakley
Oakley wasn’t just a bruiser in the paint but an enforcer for his teammates. If you messed with his squad, you were in for a long night.
12. Allen Iverson
Iverson’s swagger and fearless style sometimes led to confrontations with refs and coaches. Practice rants and playoff staredowns were part of the deal.
11. Lance Stephenson
From blowing in LeBron’s ear to barking at opponents, Stephenson’s antics were as entertaining as his spin moves. He lived for the drama.
10. Rasheed Wallace
Sheed’s favorite word might as well have been “ball doesn’t lie.” He made refs earn every whistle and had a special place in the NBA record books for technical fouls.
9. Carmelo Anthony
Melo’s competitive fire sometimes led to heated arguments with refs and opponents. He never shied away from letting his frustration show.
8. Reggie Miller
Miller’s mouth was as dangerous as his jump shot. He loved to talk trash and often pushed the limits with opponents and officials.
7. Russell Westbrook
Westbrook’s intensity is unmatched, and he wears his emotions on his sleeve. Everyone in the building will know if things aren’t going his way.
6. Chris Paul
CP3 is known for his leadership, but he’s also known for his nonstop jawing. He’ll tell you whether it’s a call he didn’t like or a teammate not in the right spot.
5. Kobe Bryant
Bryant’s competitive nature made him one of the all-time greats, but it also led to some epic on-court blow-ups. He demanded perfection and let it be known when things fell short.
4. Kevin Durant
KD might be one of the greatest scorers ever, but he’s also one of the most sensitive superstars. He’s as likely to clap back at a fan on Twitter as he is to light up the scoreboard.
3. Michael Jordan
Jordan’s competitive fire burned bright, and he took everything personally. If you crossed him, expect a staredown response.
Read More: 20 NBA Players Who Lost Their Cool on National TV
2. LeBron James
LeBron’s greatness is undeniable, but so is his tendency to lobby for calls and question officials. He’s not shy about letting his emotions show when things don’t go his way.
Read More: 25 Athletes Who Played Like the Camera Was Always on Them
1. Draymond Green
Green’s fire is what makes him great, but it’s also what gets him in trouble. Whether barking at refs or barking at his teammates, he’s never been shy about sharing his thoughts.
Read More: 24 Athletes Who Would Absolutely Fight a Ref and Not Apologize
