In the age of social media, popularity isn’t just measured in points, rebounds, or assists, it’s also reflected in follower counts. Instagram, in particular, serves as a major platform where NBA stars connect with fans, market their brands, and expand their influence far beyond the hardwood.
Unsurprisingly, LeBron James continues to dominate not only the game but also the digital space, leading all NBA players with a staggering 159.7 million followers on Instagram. His global recognition, two-decade reign of excellence, and off-court ventures like movies and philanthropy have turned him into more than a basketball player, he’s a worldwide icon.
1. LeBron James – 159.7 Million
2. Stephen Curry – 58.1 Million
3. Russell Westbrook – 22.9 Million
4. Kyrie Irving – 20.3 Million
5. Lonzo Ball – 18.1 Million
6. Klay Thompson – 16.8 Million
7. Giannis Antetokounmpo – 15.9 Million
8. Kevin Durant – 13.7 Million
9. James Harden – 12.1 Million
10. Chris Paul – 11.5 Million
11. Luka Doncic – 10.5 Million
12. LaMelo Ball – 10.5 Million
13. Jimmy Butler – 10.2 Million
14. Damian Lillard – 10.1 Million
15. Paul George – 9.8 Millon
16. Ja Morant – 9.7 Milion
17. Markelle Fultz – 9 Million
18. Bronny James – 7.9 Million
19. Jayson Tatum – 7.4 Million
20. Joel Embiid – 7.4 Million
21. Ben Simmons – 7.2 Million
22. Anthony Davis – 7.1 Millon
23. Dennis Schroder – 6 Million
24. Devin Booker – 5.6 Million
25. Trae Young – 5 Million
Stephen Curry ranks second with 58.1 million followers, a significant drop from LeBron but still an impressive number. Curry’s family-oriented image, revolutionary playstyle, and relatable demeanor make him a beloved figure across all demographics.
Rounding out the top three is Russell Westbrook, who boasts 22.9 million followers. Despite facing criticism in recent years, Westbrook’s fashion influence, MVP past, and unapologetic personality keep him a polarizing but widely followed figure.
Kyrie Irving follows closely with 20.3 million, a testament to his mix of elite on-court ability and controversial off-court views, which keep him in the public eye.
Then comes Lonzo Ball with 18.1 million, still riding the social media momentum generated by the Ball family’s early fame and reality show exposure, despite being sidelined by injury.
Klay Thompson (16.8 million) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (15.9 million) continue to draw strong numbers through championship success and global appeal, with the Greek Freak especially building a brand across continents.
Kevin Durant, one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, has 13.7 million followers. His presence on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), often overshadows his Instagram activity, but he remains one of the most followed players. James Harden (12.1 million) and Chris Paul (11.5 million) round out the top 10, with both maintaining visibility through longevity, endorsements, and high-level play.
Interestingly, international stars like Luka Doncic and LaMelo Ball each sit at 10.5 million, while Jimmy Butler, Damian Lillard, and Paul George are just behind with over 10 million each.
However, one of the biggest surprises is Bronny James. With 7.9 million followers, LeBron’s son ranks higher than both Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid (each at 7.4 million).
This shows how narrative, marketability, and family legacy can sometimes outweigh accomplishments when it comes to social media. Even Ben Simmons (7.2M) and Anthony Davis (7.1M) fall short of Bronny’s reach.
Rounding out the top 25 are Dennis Schroder (6M), Devin Booker (5.6M), and Trae Young (5M), players with star power but comparatively lower media footprints.
In today’s NBA, influence is no longer just about what happens between the lines. As the social media era continues to evolve, players like Bronny James are proving that fame can arrive before massive success is achieved.
