Docs Website

53 Years Strong! A Trusted Leader In Sports Picks, Best Bets and Predictions Since 1971.

Main Menu

Top 6 Most Hated NBA Players

by Jeremy Block - 6/1/2025

Most hated NBA players Draymond Green

The NBA is a league full of heroes, but every now and then, a player somehow manages to combine incredible talent with a disliked personality. Whether it’s their antics on the court, their over-the-top confidence, or some questionable decisions off the court, certain players have built a story of hate with them throughout their career. 

But here’s the kicker—sometimes those players are also doing amazing things behind the scenes, making a difference in their communities and supporting causes that matter. So, let’s take a look at some of the most hated players in NBA history, with a nod to the good they've done when the cameras are off, of course.

Doc’s Sports offers NBA picks for every game on our NBA predictions page.

LeBron James

What would this list be without LeBron James, right? When James pulled “The Decision” stunt on Cleveland, it felt like the whole city had been kicked in the gut. Fans lost their minds, and the entire NBA world followed suit. But just when you thought it couldn’t get worse, he teams up with Miami’s already loaded roster, creating a villainous superteam that no one could ignore.

But here’s the kicker: as much as his moves sparked outrage, LeBron’s also used his platform for good. He opened the ‘I PROMISE’ school for at-risk kids, and has donated millions to causes he believes in. Love him or hate him, James’ philanthropic efforts are impossible to ignore—and they’re from the persona of the “villain” some fans love to hate.

Kevin Durant

Imagine this: you’re the face of a franchise, you’re an MVP, and you’ve just blown a 3-1 lead in the biggest series of your career to the Golden State Warriors. Then, you join them. Durant’s decision wasn’t just controversial—it felt like a sucker punch to fans who saw it as the easy way out, a shortcut to a ring.

Within minutes of his decision, Durant became the villain for pretty much every NBA fan, with "ring-chaser" chatter following him everywhere. But here’s the plot twist: while he played the bad guy role with the Warriors, off the court, Durant’s done a lot of good. From youth mentorship to building a tech business that empowers athletes to take control of their futures. So, while the hate might never go away, there’s a lot more to Durant than just hopping teams.

Draymond Green

Let’s be real: Draymond Green is the definition of a guy you’d love to hate if he wasn’t on your team. You can’t go too long without hearing about one of his infamous on-court meltdowns, whether it’s an “accidental” groin shot or an ejection after several verbal exchanges. 

But before you toss Draymond into the “only good for trash talk” category—off the court, he’s made major strides. He’s worked on social justice issues, backed youth programs, and invested in businesses that give back to underserved communities. So, while the guy will always have that unnecessary chip on his shoulder, he’s doing some serious good off the court.

Kobe Bryant

Oh, come on don’t act surprised that Kobe Bryant is on this list. You’re either with Kobe or against him—there’s really no middle ground. His reputation as a cold-blooded killer on the court, paired with his “Mamba Mentality,” made him a target for fans who didn’t like how he carried himself. For years, fans hated his selflessness and shot-first, ask-questions-later approach, especially when he’d throw up bricks in the pursuit of an 81-point game. 

Still, his competitive mindset led to five championships and some of the most iconic moments in basketball history. Off the court, though, Bryant redefined his legacy. He supported women’s sports, funded educational programs, and worked on providing young people opportunities to succeed. Say what you will about his career, but after he retired, Kobe Bryant used his platform to make a real difference in the world.

Bill Laimbeer

If there’s one player from the '80s and '90s who perfectly captured the essence of a "villain" in basketball, it’s Bill Laimbeer. The Detroit Pistons were known as the "Bad Boys" for a reason, and Laimbeer was right in the thick of it, mixing physical play with a healthy dose of trash talk. 

Fans from opposing teams absolutely despised him, and every time he stepped on the hardwood, there was a sense of "here we go again" from the crowd. But Laimbeer’s role in the Pistons’ championship success can’t be overlooked—his leadership and tough mentality helped create a dynasty. Off the court, however, Laimbeer's image softened a bit, working as a WNBA coach and being involved in several charitable causes. His tough exterior hid a guy who genuinely wanted to give back to the community. 

Ben Simmons

To steal the show and wrap up this list is Ben Simmons. Simmons is by far the purest walking, talking definition of a guy who is being paid off your potential and never showing up. And that drove fans mad. Drafted as a “generational” talent, Simmons’ refusal to shoot jumpers and his exit strategy from Philadelphia left a lot to be desired. 

The NBA world watched in horror as his “back spasms” kept sidelining him while he was making over $50 million dollars, and many still find it hard to forgive his lack of effort during key moments. But it’s not all hate: Simmons quietly made strides off the court, using his platform for mental health awareness, especially as his own struggles became public. So, while his on-court drama continues to be a storyline, there’s a side to Simmons that deserves recognition, even if his jump shot doesn’t.

Get NBA picks on every single game, or if you want our very best bet premium picks by the experts, sign up for your free $60 account with a guarantee.

Most Recent NBA Handicapping

One E-mail A Week Is All You Need!
Our weekly newsletter is loaded with exclusive free picks,insight and advice from our expert handicappers