Giannis Antetokounmpo had an eventful summer, excelling in the Olympics and recently tying the knot with Mariah Riddlesprigger. Nevertheless, with Damian Lillard’s addition last season, the Milwaukee Bucks’ team dynamics are now under intense scrutiny, as the season draws closer. Despite the buzz, the two hoopers, who’ve spoken about wanting to develop a close bond with each other, failed to team up in the offseason, leading to doubts about their on-court cohesion and chemistry.

During Media Day, Lillard revealed that he and Giannis hadn’t met this summer. The Greek Freak had a busy personal schedule and while Dame had hoped to travel to Greece to bond with his new teammate, logistics made that impossible. Despite this, Lillard mentioned that he and Giannis have never been more in sync, thanks to their constant communication over the summer. Reminiscing about a heartfelt conversation they had: “I think it was maybe Game 4 in Indiana, we both missed that game. Everybody went out to warm up, and me and him were the only two people in the locker room.

“I just told him, ‘I don’t know what’s gonna happen, but me and you gotta get connected. We gotta get something done.’ And he agreed,” Dame narrated to the media, very recently. The Bucks face a challenge with Khris Middleton’s recovery, but Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are determined to set a positive tone in training camp, before heading into next season.

Amid all the excitement surrounding new beginnings, Giannis considered a major personal milestone: getting a tattoo! While goofing around for a photo shoot, he openly revealed, “I was this close to getting my first name this summer.” He has never gotten inked, preferring to keep his skin clean. He prioritizes his roots and family above personal achievements, with basketball being his next focus.

This playful remark brought attention to his excitement and the joyful moments, like his high-profile yet private luxury wedding ceremony, that shaped his summer. Opting for a tattoo represents his aspiration for personal development and commitment to embracing new phases in his life and career. However, Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t the only NBA player chosen to remain ink-free.

Top 5 Tattoo-Free NBA Players

Despite tattoos being popular in the NBA, some notable players choose not to get inked. The following are the top five players who’ve opted for that choice. Klay Thompson is one of the famed Splash Brothers with exceptional shooting and defensive abilities. Despite his successful career, which includes multiple championships with the Golden State Warriors, Klay has remained tattoo-free. Surely, he has enough clutch moments that he’d want to showcase! His clear slate showcases his unique approach to identity, as a sportsman.

Nikola Jokić aka Joker, has established himself in the top European hoopers bracket in the NBA, with exceptional passing and scoring skills. Yet, the Serb has no tattoos. He focuses on self-expression and proving a point on the court, going head to head with the LeBrons and Stephs of the world, rather than through ink, with a straightforward style.

Known for his charismatic personality, often bringing a smile to those around him, Joel Embiid never had a tattoo. The Cameroonian big man’s playful personality off the court and undying commitment to the game shines through as he channels his energy and intensity into his performance, making him one of the league’s top centers without feeling the need to get inked.

Grit and determination have marked Jimmy Butler’s journey through the NBA, taking him from Chicago to Miami. Despite his colorful personality and leadership qualities, he’s chosen not to get any tattoos. His focus is on winning and impacting the court. He proved the same after appearing on media day with a very normal look, a year after “emo Jimmy” became a thing.

Chris Paul, an accomplished veteran point guard and leader, has achieved remarkable success in his career, all without having any tattoos. CP3’s basketball IQ and playmaking skills are well-known, and he always looks up to a challenge. In contrast to his peers, he distinguishes himself with a clean image, showing that talent and leadership can flourish without tattoos.

These players in the NBA prove that body art does not hinder success. What are your thoughts ongoing ink-free in the NBA? Is it a statement of purity in the game or just personal preference? Let us know in the comments!

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.