NBA

Top 10 NBA Players with Iconic Tattoos: Meaningful Ink and Personal Stories Behind Them

By Aniket Kuila

10. J.R. Smith

His calf tattoo of the word "Supreme" ties him to streetwear culture, emphasizing his bold and unapologetically unique image.

9. Shaquille O'Neal

The Superman "S" symbol and the "Man of Steel" ink are all about his colossal persona on and off the basketball court.

8. Kobe Bryant

A tattoo with the name Vanessa emblazoned with a butterfly crown and wings on his arm is a mark of his love and devotion to her and family.

7. Dennis Rodman

He has these wacky, boundary-pushing tattoos all over his body, and the one across his chest for the Bulls shows his personal, rebellious, and unconventional character.

6. Stephen Curry

On his ring finger, "A" stands for his wife, Ayesha, while "Love Never Fails" is inked above his wrist, emphasizing the strong value he places on family.

5. Jayson Tatum

His back tattoo of "God's Will" and an entire leg sleeve with all the scenes from a movie give testimony to his faith and love for basketball-cinematic storytelling.

4. Allen Iverson

His body art, including goggles on his neck that say "Only The Strong Survive" and "Soldier," portrays his hard-hitting mental attitude and his own life story.

3. Chris Andersen

The "FREE BIRD" tattoo on his neck and colorful wings show his free-spirited, rebellious nature both on and off the court.

2. Paul Pierce

His "Chosen One" tattoo on his back represents his belief in his greatness insofar as he considers himself among the best players of the game.

1. LeBron James

His "CHOSEN 1" over-the-back tattoo reflects on his self-determination and the pressure of being conceived as "The Next Big Thing."