The NBA has seen its share of fiery personalities, trash talkers, and intense rivalries—but it’s also home to some of the classiest athletes in all of sports. These are the players who kept their cool, showed respect, and led by example, even in the most high-pressure moments.
Whether it was through their conduct on the court, their kindness off it, or the way they treated everyone from teammates to towel guys, these gentlemen earned the admiration of fans and fellow players alike. Let’s rank the 15 most gentlemanly players in NBA history.
15. Pau Gasol
Pau brought a calm, cerebral presence to every team he joined. He was always respectful in victory and defeat, and his off-court philanthropy made him beloved by teammates and fans alike.
14. David Robinson
They didn’t call him “The Admiral” just for fun—Robinson carried himself with discipline, humility, and class throughout his career. He was a fierce competitor who never lost his composure.
13. Ray Allen
Ray was all about preparation, professionalism, and precision. He let his shooting do the talking and always treated opponents with quiet respect.
12. Mike Conley
Conley is one of the most well-liked players of his generation, known for his sportsmanship and calm demeanor. Even when things got chippy, he always kept it classy.
11. Tim Duncan
Tim was so unassuming, people used to joke he was boring—but in reality, he was just relentlessly respectful. He was a quiet leader who never sought the spotlight and always gave credit to others.
10. Shane Battier
Battier was the glue guy every locker room wanted, with a brainy style of play and a calm voice in every huddle. He approached the game with maturity and selflessness.
9. Joe Dumars
Joe was the calm in the storm on those rough-and-tumble Pistons teams. He played with integrity and professionalism, even when things around him got heated.
8. Grant Hill
Hill’s career was derailed by injuries, but his grace never wavered. He was a class act on and off the floor, known for his poise, smarts, and easygoing demeanor.
7. Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk was as loyal as they come and played the game with humility despite being one of the greatest ever. He earned respect across the league with his work ethic and friendly nature.
6. Jrue Holiday
Jrue’s steady presence, generosity, and commitment to helping others make him one of the NBA’s most respected figures. He’s known as much for his kindness as he is for his defense.
5. Steve Nash
Nash was always calm, thoughtful, and composed—even when things didn’t go his way. He treated teammates and opponents alike with genuine respect and rarely lost his cool.
4. Magic Johnson
Magic had the flash, but also the friendliness to match. His infectious smile and leadership style made him beloved by fans and players across the league.
3. Klay Thompson
Klay is easygoing, hilarious in the most unintentional way, and always one to keep things light. He plays hard but never dirty, and he handles every moment with calm and grace.
2. Nikola Jokic
Jokic is a big man with a big heart, known for his humility and understated demeanor. Despite being one of the best players on the planet, he keeps things low-key and always defers credit to his teammates.
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1. Steph Curry
Steph revolutionized basketball, but he’s never been anything but gracious. Whether he’s shaking hands with kids, tipping his cap to opponents, or hyping up teammates, he defines what it means to be a gentleman in the game.
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