While “villain” might mean different things to different NBA fans, there’s a certain magic when players become the players fans love to hate. We have seen countless examples throughout NBA history, and we might have a collection of players that could rival any of the iconic villains of the past.
Don’t expect to see LeBron James or Russell Westbrook appear in this ranking, because of their aging status as we enjoy the final years of their prime with appreciation. Here’s a ranking of the top 10 biggest NBA villains for this season, and may the boos commence.
1. Joel Embiid
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPlCn4c7gqs
For years, Joel Embiid has been the heart of the Philadelphia 76ers, as the franchise’s first MVP since Allen Iverson. Yet, despite his undeniable talent, Embiid has also been one of the most polarizing figures in the NBA. Criticisms follow his tendency to miss games due to injury and his inability to push the Sixers past the second round of the playoffs. It doesn’t help that Embiid is proud of being a player who might not play another back-to-back game in his career ever again.
Though some see his injuries as unfortunate circumstances, many fans argue his supermax contract doesn’t match his playoff record. For all his accolades, Embiid’s lack of playoff success often fuels resentment, adding to the perception of him as an “overpaid” star who struggles when it counts most.
Additionally, Embiid’s early willingness to embrace the villain role—whether through taunting opponents or engaging in drama with fans – has only heightened fans’ animosity. Embiid has only played one game this year and while we won’t hold it against him for being hurt, most NBA fans don’t seem to care. Matters get worse considering the big man got suspended for shoving a reporter, so perhaps the villain label is affecting Embiid.
2. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant’s journey from Golden State hero to widely criticized “team-hopper” has cemented his place on any NBA villain list. Durant’s move to the Warriors in 2017 was met with backlash, and his subsequent stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns only added to fans’ frustrations.
While Durant remains one of the league’s most talented scorers, his constant team changes have left fans questioning his commitment and loyalty, and he’s often accused of taking the easy road to championships. Beyond his moves, Durant’s vocal presence has made him a frequent target of criticism from the media including some high-profile analysts including Stephen A. Smith.
Known for clapping back at critics—sometimes even using burner accounts—Durant’s online persona only amplifies his “villain” status. Durant always gets into it with fans for some reason and that just means the hate will come from everywhere until he decides to retire.
3. Draymond Green
Draymond Green is the ultimate NBA villain and that is what the Warriors still need from him as he approaches 35 years old in a couple of months. There simply isn’t enough time to go through the examples of why Green is so hated, but we can go over the main ones including how he assaults players on the court (including his own teammates), goes dirty at times, and has a tendency to lose his cool.
Green has accumulated technical fouls, suspensions, and a reputation for toeing the line between aggressive and dirty play. Fans see him as the “enforcer” of the Golden State Warriors, and his fiery competitiveness will make him hated outside of his city ( from media as well) although even Steve Kerr would admit how Green pushes his buttons too.
So far this season, Green “only” has two technical fouls called on him so perhaps he is on the way to becoming loved by the referees a little more. He still has some moments where he gets under player’s skins
4. Ben Simmons
Once viewed as a cornerstone for the Philadelphia 76ers and a player on a hefty contract, Ben Simmons‘ fall from grace has been dramatic and controversial. His refusal to shoot and struggles at the free-throw line caused frustration among fans and teammates, but his decision to sit out during a crucial period in Philadelphia only made matters worse.
After a messy breakup with the Sixers, Simmons landed with the Brooklyn Nets, but questions about his work ethic and desire to compete continue to overshadow his once-promising career. While the former All-Star has claimed he is hurt, constantly seeing him at the Met Gala fashion shows is not the best look.
We will never question a player who claims he is hurt, but there is no doubt Simmons has lost all the confidence that made him a superstar prospect. Simmons has played eight games this year, averaged 6.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, and looks to be on the way out of relevance. Somehow, instead of people feeling bad for him, they have villanized him for that.
5. Dillon Brooks
Dillon Brooks has emerged as one of the NBA’s premier agitators, known for his defensive intensity and relentless trash talk. Brooks doesn’t shy away from confrontation, often getting in his opponents’ faces and making bold declarations, such as calling out stars like LeBron James.
While some appreciate his defensive grit, others see him as unnecessarily brash, with his trash-talking often seeming to exceed his actual performance on the court. Brooks’s time with the Memphis Grizzlies earned him a reputation as a player who instigates drama without the ability to back it up.
After joining the Houston Rockets, Brooks continued to play with the same chip on his shoulder, much to the chagrin of superstar players and opposing fans. His tendency to make controversial statements and then struggle in big moments has led to a reputation as a “paper tiger,” talking big but often failing to deliver.
6. James Harden
James Harden’s scoring prowess and unique playing style have made him a polarizing figure in the NBA for years. Known for his heavy reliance on isolation plays and fouls, Harden’s game frustrates fans who believe his style disrupts the flow of basketball.
However, it’s his penchant for requesting trades and forcing his way off teams—including his recent exit from the Philadelphia 76ers—that has solidified his villain status. Harden has now played for multiple franchises, and his public trade demands create an image of a player who prioritizes personal comfort over team success.
Many fans see Harden as a superstar who struggles to adapt to adversity, failing to turn individual brilliance and accolades into team success His off-court behavior, including showing up late to training camp and forcing trades, has left a sour taste in the mouths of fans and teammates alike, and they haven’t forgotten yet.
7. Devin Booker
Devin Booker has gained a reputation as one of the most talented scorers in the league, but his attitude on the court has led some to label him a villain. Known for his intense trash talk and sometimes cocky demeanor, Booker often antagonizes opponents with his swagger. Of course, the best example is his feud with Slovenian star Luka Doncic and there are fireworks whenever they compete against each other.
Fans appreciate his confidence, but his bravado can sometimes rub people the wrong way, particularly when he engages in confrontations with fans or taunts rivals after making big plays. His recent partnership with Kevin Durant on the Phoenix Suns has only heightened the target on his back.
Many fans see the Suns as a “superteam” that has yet to prove itself in the playoffs, and Booker’s confidence without the resume to back it up fuels resentment. For every fan who admires Booker’s skills, there’s another who relishes the opportunity to see him knocked down a peg.
8. Trae Young
Trae Young has become a fixture on the NBA villain list thanks to his performances in hostile environments and his tendency to embrace the role of the “heel.” Known for his long-range shooting and knack for the dramatic, Young has repeatedly silenced opposing crowds, most notably during the 2021 playoffs when he first relished the boos in Madison Square Garden and it hasn’t stopped then.
His cocky style and willingness to play into the villain role have made him a player fans love to hate. In Atlanta, Young is a hero, but on the road, he’s viewed as an antagonist, seemingly enjoying the boos that follow him from city to city. Funnily enough, Young thrives on the energy of hostile crowds, playing his best when the pressure is highest—a quality that makes him both respected and reviled.
9. Zion Williamson
Despite his immense talent, Zion Williamson has faced criticism for his struggles to stay on the court. Drafted as a generational talent, Williamson’s injuries have limited his playing time and left fans frustrated with his inability to live up to the hype. We had high expectations for Zion to start the year, but it has been the same old problems resurfacing.
His frequent absences have sparked debates about his durability and commitment, and fans of the New Orleans Pelicans are growing impatient, questioning if Williamson can ever be the franchise player they hoped for and whether he should be traded in the right deal. A lot of fans seem to believe Zion just doesn’t have the drive to shed some pounds and lessen the weight he carries on an NBA court.
Williamson’s contract and perceived lack of dedication have led to a backlash, with some fans viewing him as a “waste of potential.” Though he has yet to develop a true villain personality, the combination of high expectations and limited results has earned him a spot among the NBA’s most scrutinized players.
10. Paul George
Paul George, once celebrated as one of the NBA’s most versatile and talented two-way players, has become a polarizing figure in recent years. Fans coined the nickname “Playoff P” in expectation of his heroics in big moments, but George has often struggled under postseason pressure, leading to disappointment.
His inconsistent playoff performances, coupled with some high-profile misses in key games, have become a point of ridicule among fans and rivals alike. His self-given nickname, originally intended to highlight his confidence, has ironically turned into a source of mockery as fans question whether he can truly live up to it.
Adding to his “villain” image, George has been involved in controversial team moves, including his high-profile exit from the Oklahoma City Thunder to join the Los Angeles Clippers with Kawhi Leonard. His bold ambitions with the Clippers further raised expectations and there are hard feelings since he failed to deliver. The saga continues as George has only played five games ( a common theme in the NBA now) and averaged 17.2 points per game despite signing a $212-million deal with the 76ers this summer.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.
