They excel on the courts and behind the mic…
The worlds of sports and music have always been intertwined, creating vibrant synergies that captivate audiences. In the NBA, this fusion is particularly intriguing, as extraordinary athletes reveal another facet of their talent, showcasing their skills as accomplished artists.
For some, music is just a hobby among others. Whether creating beats, improvising melodies, or practicing an instrument, music offers them a brief escape from the demands of basketball and the pressure to win games. For others, music is as serious a profession as basketball. These players spend their off-seasons working in recording studios, filming music videos, or preparing for the release of their upcoming tracks or albums.
Without further ado, here’s a list of five basketball players who excel in music as well as on the basketball court.
Also read: The 10 Sexiest NBA Players’ Wives in 2023
5-Lonzo Ball (ZO)
Off the NBA courts, Lonzo Ball also stands out for his musical talents. The Chicago Bulls point guard has gradually unveiled an artistic side that continues to gain popularity among fans, with the endorsement of 2Chainz serving as a testament to his musical skill. Lonzo Ball’s music journey began in 2018 with the release of his first single, “Melo Ball.” This track, accompanied by a music video shot in the streets of Los Angeles, achieved notable success, amassing over 7 million views on YouTube. Over time, Lonzo Ball has refined his musical style, gravitating toward melodic and introspective rap. He has collaborated with well-known artists like Lil Uzi Vert and Quavo, cementing his place in the music industry. In 2020, Lonzo Ball founded his own label, “No ID Entertainment,” allowing him to promote his music and support emerging artists. He released his first EP, “Born 2 Glo,” in 2021, receiving positive reviews for its maturity and depth. His latest project is titled “Ball-Star Pack,” an eight-track album released in February 2022.
4-Miles Bridges (RTB MB)
Miles Bridges, the forward for the Charlotte Hornets, is not only known for his skills on the NBA courts. He is also a talented rapper who has made a name for himself in the music industry under the pseudonym RTB MB. According to Billboard, Miles Bridges’ passion for music dates back to his childhood. He began rapping as a teenager and released his first freestyles online. In 2016, he released his first official single, “Burn,” which was an immediate hit with NBA fans and hip-hop enthusiasts. Miles Bridges’ musical style is a mix of conscious rap, trap, and old-school hip-hop. His lyrics cover a range of topics, including street life, the challenges of fame, and his Christian faith. He is known for his powerful flow and impactful lyrics that reflect his authentic personality. Outside of his NBA commitments, Miles Bridges dedicates much of his time to music. He has released several successful singles and mixtapes, including “RTB II” (2017), “Jamell Curry” (2018), and “Unlimited” (2020). He has also collaborated with renowned artists like J. Cole, Waka Flocka Flame, and T.I. His latest single, “Bombaclot,” featuring Beatsbycali, was released in March 2023.
3-Aaron Gordon
While Aaron Gordon is known for his impressive skills on the NBA courts as a forward for the Denver Nuggets, he also proves to be an accomplished musician in his spare time. Aaron Gordon’s passion for music dates back to his childhood. He began playing the piano at a young age and later explored other instruments, such as the guitar and drums. In 2020, Aaron Gordon took the leap into professional music with the release of his debut album, “Longshot.” This nine-track album, featuring R&B and hip-hop sounds, reveals a lesser-known side of the basketball player and allows him to share his emotions and thoughts with the public. Since the release of this project, Aaron Gordon continues to explore his musical creativity and share his melodies with his fans. He regularly releases singles on streaming platforms, sometimes collaborating with other artists. His latest project is the freestyle “Euro Freestyle,” released in 2023.
2-Damian Lillard (Dame D.O.L.L.A.)
Damian Lillard, the incredible point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks, is not just a virtuoso on the basketball court. Under the pseudonym Dame D.O.L.L.A., he reveals an unexpected artistic side, producing hit tracks and delivering fiery stage performances. Damian Lillard’s passion for music, according to an interview, dates back to his childhood. He began rapping in his teenage years, influenced by hip-hop legends like Nas and Jay-Z. In 2012, he released his first single, “Officer,” which drew attention from both NBA fans and hip-hop enthusiasts. Damian Lillard’s musical style is a mix of hip-hop, conscious rap, and R&B. His lyrics cover a variety of topics, including street life, the challenges of fame, his motivations, and his Christian faith. He is known for his smooth flow, sharp punchlines, and catchy melodies. Outside of his NBA commitments, Damian Lillard dedicates much of his time to music. He has released several successful studio albums, including “The Letter O” (2015), “Confirmed” (2016), and “Sorry for Woke” (2020). He has also collaborated with renowned artists like Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, and Snoop Dogg. His latest project is the double album “Don D.O.L.L.A. Life Lately Edition,” released in November 2023.
1. Shaquille O’Neal, of course!
Shaquille O’Neal, the iconic basketball legend, not only made history in the NBA with his on-court prowess, but under the pseudonym Shaq Diesel, he also made a name for himself as a rapper and DJ, releasing hit albums and memorable collaborations. Since his NBA debut in 1992, Shaquille O’Neal has displayed his passion for music. He released his first album, “Shaq Diesel,” in 1993, which achieved remarkable success. Certified quadruple platinum, it propelled the basketball player to hip-hop stardom. Shaquille O’Neal’s musical style is a unique blend of hip-hop, funk, and soul. His lyrics, often laced with humor and self-deprecation, celebrate his success, love of parties, and unique personality. His powerful flow and deep, commanding voice are unmistakable. Shaquille O’Neal continued to release albums throughout the 1990s, with titles like “Shaq Fu: Da Return” (1994), “360°: Heat” (1995), and “Shaq Fu: The Last Shot” (1996). He collaborated with notable names in hip-hop like Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, and 2Pac, consolidating his place in the music industry. Today, Shaq has turned to DJing, performing under the moniker DJ Diesel. He frequently hosts festivals known as “Shaq’s Bass All-Stars.”
