Breakups are rarely pretty in the NBA, especially when big names decide it’s time to bounce. Whether it was clashing with coaches, torching teammates on the way out, or turning a fanbase against them, these exits left scorched earth in their wake.
From cryptic tweets to awkward press conferences, these stars didn’t just leave their teams—they lit the bridge on fire as they walked across it. Here are 16 NBA stars who managed to alienate just about everyone on the way out.
16. James Harden
Harden’s departure from Houston was a masterclass in how to get traded while making everyone mad. From skipping training camp to partying mid-season, he didn’t exactly leave quietly.
15. Kyrie Irving
Kyrie’s time in Brooklyn was filled with drama, detours, and head-scratching decisions. By the time he asked out, fans, media, and even teammates seemed ready to pack his bags.
14. Jimmy Butler
Minnesota got the whole Jimmy experience—and then some. That infamous practice, where he reportedly dominated the starters with third-stringers, didn’t exactly scream team unity.
13. Dwight Howard
By the time Dwight left Orlando, smiles had turned into scowls. Trade demands, locker room tension, and a very public feud with Stan Van Gundy made sure of that.
12. Kevin Durant
Durant’s decision to join the Warriors didn’t sit well with Oklahoma City fans—or his old teammates. He left behind hurt feelings, burner accounts, and some very bitter rivalries.
11. Ben Simmons
When Simmons passed up a wide-open dunk and then ghosted Philly, things got icy fast. Fans and front office alike were done waiting for him to come around.
10. Russell Westbrook
Westbrook’s exit from the Lakers came with a flurry of criticism and deflection. His stubborn playing style and lack of accountability rubbed just about everyone the wrong way.
9. Carmelo Anthony
Melo’s time in New York ended with drama, trade rumors, and a serious clash of egos with Phil Jackson. By the time he left, it felt like everyone just needed a breather.
8. Chris Paul
Things in Los Angeles soured quickly for CP3 once the Clippers’ core stopped clicking. The tension with Blake Griffin didn’t help, and it became clear someone had to go.
7. Shaquille O’Neal
Shaq’s Lakers exit was all about power struggles and paychecks. The feud with Kobe reached its boiling point, forcing fans to take sides.
6. DeMarcus Cousins
Cousins had undeniable talent, but Sacramento got tired of the emotional rollercoaster. The Kings dealt him mid-All-Star Weekend, and it was somehow not surprising.
5. Anthony Davis
AD’s “That’s All Folks” shirt said it all. His awkward trade request and checked-out demeanor left Pelicans fans feeling betrayed.
4. Ray Allen
When Allen bolted to Miami, the rest of the Celtics’ Big Three took it personally. The cold shoulder lasted for years—and some would argue it still hasn’t thawed.
3. Vince Carter
Toronto fans didn’t forgive Vince for what felt like a mailed-in effort before he was traded. For years, he was enemy number one on the north side of the border.
Read more: 12 Quarterbacks Who Asked for a Trade and Made It Awkward
2. LeBron James
“The Decision” might’ve raised millions for charity, but it torched LeBron’s image in Cleveland. Jersey burnings and venomous boos followed for years.
Read more: 15 MLB Stars Who Alienated Every Fanbase They Touched
1. Scottie Pippen
Pippen’s final days in Chicago were filled with resentment and regret. Publicly calling out management and later criticizing teammates cemented his rocky goodbye.
Read more: Kyrie Irving Speaks on Kevin Durant ‘Beef’ After Explosive Comments
