NBA Players With Dreads: A Look at Current and Long-time Hairstyle Trend

The longstanding trend of NBA players with dreads, from current stars to legends of the past. Get a closer look at the trend of NBA players with dreads, from current stars like Ja Morant and Robin Lopez to legends of the past like Allen Iverson and Shaquille O'Neal. Discover the differences between dreadlocks and dreads.
NBA Players With Dreads

Dreadlocks have been a popular hairstyle among basketball players for years, and the NBA has no shortage of players sporting this distinctive look. From current stars to legends of the past, the league has seen its fair share of players with dreads. We’ll take a closer look at some of the current NBA players with dreads, as well as those who have rocked this hairstyle in the past.

NBA Players With Dreads

Current NBA Players With Dreads

When it comes to NBA players with dreads, one name that should not be missed is 

Robin Lopez is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable NBA players with dreads. He is a 7-foot center who currently plays for the Orlando Magic. He is also the twin brother of Brook Lopez, the 2021 NBA champion.

Ja Morant. He is a top NBA player and a point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, with an incredible skill set and a fun sense of style. Morant is not just a talented player on the court, but he is also known for giving his dreadlocks some extra flair. He is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining players in the league, and fans love to see him showcase his skills and style during games. 

Ben Vallance stands out as one of the top players. Vallance is a 6’9″ power forward who currently plays for the Detroit Pistons.

NBA Players With Long Dreads

While many NBA players with dreads keep them relatively short, there are a few who have opted for longer locks. One of the most famous examples is the retired Allen Iverson, who famously wore his dreads in cornrows throughout much of his career. Iverson’s dreads were so iconic that they became a part of his brand, and he’s still recognized for his distinctive look to this day.

Another player with long dreads is the Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo. Adebayo’s dreads are longer than most, reaching down past his shoulders. He’s often seen wearing a headband to keep them out of his face during games.

NBA Players With Dreadlocks

Terms  “dreads” and “dreadlocks” are often used mutualy, there are differences between the two. Dreadlocks are typically formed by twisting or matting hair into long, rope-like strands, while dreads can be formed using a variety of techniques. That being said, many NBA players with dreads also have what could be considered dreadlocks.

One player with particularly distinctive dreadlocks is the Brooklyn Nets’ Kyrie Irving. Irving’s dreads are shorter than some of his peers, but they’re styled in a unique way that sets them apart. He’s often seen wearing a headband to keep them in place during games.

Who Has Dreads in the NBA?

While there are plenty of current NBA players with dreads, the trend is nothing new. Over the years, many players have rocked this distinctive hairstyle. Some of the most notable include the aforementioned Allen Iverson, as well as the retired Metta World Peace (formerly known as Ron Artest) and the legendary Shaquille O’Neal.

Other players who have sported dreads or dreadlocks in the past include Ricky Davis, Larry Sanders, and Michael Beasley. In fact, Beasley caused a bit of controversy in 2019 when he showed up to a game with what appeared to be a “lifestyle brand” tattoo on his neck, which included the word “Dreadhead” in the design.

The trend of NBA players with dreads has been a longstanding one, with current players and legends of the past sporting this distinctive look. From James Harden’s signature thick dreads to Allen Iverson’s iconic cornrows, these hairstyles have become a part of these players’ identities on and off the court. While some players keep their dreads relatively short, others have opted for longer locks that have become synonymous with their brand. And while the terms “dreads” and “dreadlocks” may differ slightly, many NBA players have rocked both styles with ease. It’s clear that this trend is not going away anytime soon, and fans can continue to expect to see more players with dreads making a statement on the court.


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Katerina Gligoroska
Katerina Gligoroska

Katerina Gligoroska used to play basketball from an early age. Gligoroska is 5 feet 11 inches tall and primarily plays as a shooting guard. Gligoroska is known for her agility, speed, and shooting accuracy, which have made her a valuable asset to her teams. Katerina Gligoroska has proven herself to be a talented and dedicated athlete and her skills.

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