by: Madeline Schneider
The NBA and hip-hop have been intertwined for decades, with players influencing rap culture through fashion, music, and collaborations with artists. This list highlights five hoopers who represent hip-hop’s essence:
1. Allen Iverson: Iverson was one of the first NBA players to make a statement off the court with his streetwear fashion. He was known for wearing chains and baggy clothing, having cornrows, and having many tattoos. This bold style was heavily influenced by hip-hop and eventually led to the NBA implementing a dress code that did not follow the traditional image of the league. Iverson also released a rap single titled “40 Bars” in 2000 but did not do much in the music industry afterward.
2. LeBron James: LeBron James has a deep connection to hip-hop. He frequently curates playlists, promotes artists on social media, references lyrics in interviews, and even executive produces albums like 2 Chainz’s “Rap or Go to the League.” His love for hip-hop music inspired him to start “The Shop: Uninterrupted,” an unscripted talk show where LeBron James and guests discuss topics like music, pop culture, and sports in a barbershop setting.
3. Damian Lillard: Also known as Dame D.O.L.L.A., Damian Lillard is considered one of the best, if not the best, rappers in the NBA. His debut album, “The Letter O,” was released in 2016, and he’s released a bunch more since then. After collaborating with artists like Lil Durk, Snoop Dog, and even Lil Wayne, Lillard created his label called “Front Page Music” to support and inspire new artists in the music industry.
4. Shai Gilfeous-Alexander: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been referenced in songs by Drake (“8AM in Charlotte”) and Westside Gunn. He’s attended Rolling Loud and has friendships with rappers like Drake and Don Toliver. His tunnel fits, often featuring brands like Chrome Hearts, reflect hip-hop culture, solidifying his basketball and style icon status.
5. Shaquille O’Neal: O’Neal signed with Jive Records in 1993 and produced a platinum rap album titled “Shaq Diesel, ” reaching #25 on Billboard 100. He collaborated with artists like Biggie and Jay-Z, and is maintaining a lasting presence in hip-hop through
DJing, endorsements, and cultural influence. Since retiring, he has DJed for fun, saying, “I do this for fun. I lose money every show, but this hour is similar to the hour and a half I would have playing four quarters, so that’s why I do it.”
From fashion statements to full-fledged rap careers, these NBA stars have embraced hip-hop beyond the game, proving that the bond between basketball and rap is more than just cultural—it’s personal, influential, and ever-evolving.
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