Superstars can change the game—but they can also change the locker room vibe, and not always in a good way. From locker room drama to ball-hog tendencies, some NBA legends left a trail of exasperated teammates in their wake.
Whether it was ego clashes, off-court antics, or just plain difficult personalities, these players often found themselves at the center of chaos. Here are 20 NBA stars who, for all their talent, were absolute nightmares to play with.
20. Stephon Marbury
Marbury had the skills, but he also had a reputation for being tough to work with. Coaches and teammates alike often questioned his leadership and decision-making.
19. Russell Westbrook
Westbrook plays with unmatched intensity—but that intensity can come at the cost of team chemistry. His ball-dominant style hasn’t always meshed well with fellow stars.
18. Gilbert Arenas
Arenas was electric on the court, but his off-court behavior overshadowed his talent. The infamous locker room incident with firearms didn’t exactly scream “great teammate.”
17. DeMarcus Cousins
Boogie was a force down low, but he often let his temper get the best of him. His mood swings and clashes with coaches created a volatile environment.
16. Jimmy Butler
Butler’s work ethic is legendary—but so is his tendency to call out teammates. His intense approach has sparked friction everywhere from Chicago to Minnesota.
15. Kevin Durant
Durant is one of the greatest scorers ever, but he’s also had high-profile issues with teammates and the media. Burner accounts and passive-aggressive jabs haven’t helped his case.
14. Rajon Rondo
Rondo is a basketball genius, but he hasn’t always played nice with others. His clashes with coaches and fellow stars have followed him throughout his career.
13. Allen Iverson
Iverson changed the game, but he wasn’t exactly the poster child for team-first basketball. Practice rants and a shoot-first mentality made him a challenge to build around.
12. James Harden
Harden’s isolation-heavy style and questionable commitment in recent years have rubbed teammates the wrong way. When things don’t go his way, the drama tends to follow.
11. Carmelo Anthony
Melo was a scoring machine, but he wasn’t always known for making his teammates better. His reluctance to adapt and pass drew criticism throughout his prime.
10. Kyrie Irving
Kyrie’s off-court controversies have been just as notable as his clutch performances. He’s left a trail of discontent in places like Cleveland, Boston, and Brooklyn.
9. Dennis Rodman
Rodman was a rebounding savant, but also a wildcard personality. Between his antics and disappearances, teammates never knew what to expect.
8. Latrell Sprewell
Sprewell’s intensity turned violent when he infamously choked his coach. That moment alone cemented his place on this list.
7. Karl-Anthony Towns
Despite his talent, Towns has been criticized for lacking leadership and accountability. His body language and effort have frustrated more than a few teammates.
6. Dwight Howard
Howard’s goofy persona didn’t always sit well in serious locker rooms. His stints with multiple teams often ended in chemistry issues and locker room tension.
5. Andrew Bynum
Bynum had a world of potential, but his commitment and attitude often tanked team morale. Bowling injuries and disinterest told teammates everything they needed to know.
4. Reggie Jackson
Teammates have long questioned Jackson’s self-view compared to his actual role. He’s rubbed stars the wrong way by trying to be the guy when he’s clearly not the guy.
3. Kevin Garnett
KG’s trash talk was legendary, but not everyone loved being on the receiving end—even in practice. His intensity could be inspiring or downright overwhelming.
Read more: The 15 Most Shocking Retirements in NBA History
2. Chris Paul
Paul’s basketball mind is elite, but his perfectionism and harsh leadership style have led to tension. He’s not afraid to call you out, whether you’re a rookie or a fellow All-Star.
Read more: 16 Quarterbacks Who Lost the Locker Room
1. Kobe Bryant
Kobe demanded greatness—and didn’t care who he stepped on to get it. His relentless drive and no-nonsense attitude made him respected, feared, and often disliked by his teammates.
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