Most Tattooed NBA Players
- Chris "Birdman" Andersen
- J.R. Smith
- DeShawn Stevenson
With over 200 tattoos, Chris "Birdman" Andersen has the title for most NBA tattoos. Allen Iverson brought tattoos into the mainstream. James Harden never got into tattoos, rather the beard. J.R. Smith’s tattoos serve as a vibrant canvas, encapsulating personal meanings. Retired NBA star DeShawn Stevenson certainly deserves to make our list of most tattooed players.
Notable NBA Tattoos
- Kevin Durant
- LeBron James
- Monta Ellis
Hand tattoos almost never work well. Kevin Durant, regarded as one of the greatest NBA players, has taken on the mantle as brand ambassador for Fanduel sportsbook. By 2017, Monta Ellis had spent 12 seasons in the NBA. He showcases the deep love he has for family and basketball.
Origins of NBA Player Tattoos
Dennis Rodman was the first NBA player to have a tattoo that was publicly shown. In 1996, Allen Iverson of the Philadelphia 76ers was one of the players who made having tattoos in the NBA more mainstream. The NBA initially disapproved of its basketball players displaying tattoos.
Tattoo Culture in the NBA
Many NBA players have small tattoos that are made up of one big tattoo, usually covering their arms and torso. The tattoos covering their arms are known as sleeves in the tattoo world. NBA 2K video game series includes all NBA players — and all of their tattoos.
Tattoo Policy in the NBA
Can NBA players get face tattoos? A player may not, during any NBA game, display any name, mark, logo, or other identification. This rule does not specifically mention tattoos, but the intent is clear.
Interesting Facts about NBA Tattoos
Terry Rozier got his first tattoo at 14. JR Smith had his mom take him to get his first tat at 16 – a portrait of him dunking that is now covered by more tattoos. Carmelo Anthony also got his first tattoo at 16.