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#4 Kawhi Leonard – The Claw
One of the most iconic nicknames of modern NBA, Kawhi Leonard was given the moniker for his freakishly huge hands. Leonard is one of the best two-way players the NBA has ever seen, and is a two-time NBA champion, along with two finals MVP and two defensive players of the year selections. Leonard is currently on the lookout for his third championship alongside the likes of Patrick Beverley and Paul George for the LA Clippers. He is often said to be a “silent-assassin,” and has one of the most apt nicknames in modern NBA.
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#3 Kobe Bryant – The Black Mamba
The late Kobe Bryant has arguably one of the biggest legacies the NBA has ever seen. The LA Lakers legend won the championship 5 times and was an all-star in 18 of his overall 20 seasons in the league. Bryant had a “never-give up” attitude and was known for his incredible clutch plays and ability to win games on his own. Bryant is the fourth highest scorer on the NBA's all-time list and has a fitting nickname, which in truth was a nod to a Kill Bill movie character.
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#2 Shawn Marion – The Matrix
Another moniker that is based on a famous movie, The Matrix was a four-time All-Star and won the NBA championship in 2011 with the Dallas Mavericks alongside Dirk Nowitzki. Marion was given the nickname by TNT analyst Kenny Smith for his freakish athleticism during the 1999 preseason. Marion was never the most graceful of shooters and had his best individual years playing for the Phoenix Suns. Regardless, the nickname was given due to his insane athleticism, and is one of the most iconic ones ever bestowed to an NBA star.
#1 Julius Erving – Dr. J
Still, one of the most iconic nicknames of the NBA, Julius “Dr. J” Erving was known for his surgical shooting and was initially called the “doctor of basketball.” Erving is considered one of the most influential players of all time and was the most popular ABA player when the league merged with the NBA at the start of the 1956-76 season. He is still the eighth highest scorer of all time and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006. He was one of the first basketball players to ever be universally recognized by his nickname.
