List of NBA Player Names That Hide the Real Name

Nicknames in the NBA have grown into a culture of their own, where players become larger-than-life personalities. Terms like “King James”, "The Greek Freak","Slim Reaper," and “Chef Curry” aren't just catchy-they represent the skills, style, and personality of the stars. Many of these players are so popular that fans know them by these monikers rather than their full birth names. This list revolves around 10 of the most famous NBA nicknames and reveals the real names behind these iconic titles.

List of NBA Players with Their Real Names

From “The Alien” to “Dame Time”, “The Joker”, and “The Process”, these nicknames have become household terms. These titles often come from fans, teammates, or media and stay with players throughout their careers, shaping how they are recognized globally. Each nickname tells a story of skill, dominance, and personality that has left a lasting mark on the game. They highlight signature moves, clutch performances, unique styles, or even physical traits.

Here's a ranking from 10 to 1 of the real names behind these legendary nicknames. These nicknames are more than just fun labels-they represent how fans and teammates view these players. Whether it's dominance like King James, versatility like The Greek Freak, or clutch performances like Dame Time, each nickname reflects a story behind the player's game. Here, we break down 10 of the most famous nicknames in the NBA and reveal the real names behind these iconic identities.

#10 - The Alien - Victory Wembanyama

The nba player name “The Alien” belongs to Victor Wembanyama, whose full name nba player is Victor Wembanyama. This nba player real name came into the spotlight because of his unique size and skill combination, earning him the nickname “Alien” from LeBron James himself. As one of the tallest basketball player nba names ever, his debut with the San Antonio Spurs in 2023-2024 showcased his game-changing talent and earned him Rookie of the Year honors. Victor Wembanyama, famously known as The Alien, continues to astonish the league with his unmatched length, shot-blocking, and perimeter skills. As one of the tallest and most versatile players in the NBA, Wembanyama averages over 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game in 2025. His impact on both ends of the floor makes him one of the most exciting young NBA stars and earns him a spot among the best basketball players right now.

#9 - PG-13 - Paul George

The nba player name “PG-13” comes from Paul Clifton Anthony George, the full name nba player. He adopted this nba player real name nickname when rebranding himself as a two-way superstar who dominates both offense and defense. Known for highlight dunks and defensive intensity, this basketball player nba names star had a memorable run during the 2019 Playoffs with the Oklahoma City Thunder and later the LA Clippers. Paul George, aka PG-13, remains a top-tier two-way player in 2025. With his elite perimeter defense and smooth shooting stroke, George continues to contribute heavily to his team’s playoff push. Averaging 21+ PPG and guarding the opponent’s best wings, he proves he’s still one of the best basketball players who thrives on both ends of the floor.

#8 - The Process - Joel Embiid

The nba player name “The Process” refers to Joel Hans Embiid, whose full name nba player represents one of the most dominant centers today. The nickname grew as Philadelphia fans embraced the rebuilding philosophy called “Trust the Process," and the nba player real name became synonymous with leadership. This basketball player nba names superstar, finally captured the NBA MVP award in 2023 after years of elite scoring and rim protection. Joel Embiid, known by fans as The Process, is once again a dominant force in the paint. Despite battling injuries, Embiid has averaged 28 points and 11 rebounds this season, showing why he’s still one of the best basketball players in the NBA today. His combination of size, skill, and footwork remains nearly impossible to defend.

#7 - The Joker - Nikola Jokic

The nba player name “The Joker” belongs to Nikola Jokic, whose full name nba player is simple yet world-famous. Known for his calm demeanor and unique passing style, this nba player real name was crowned back-to-back MVP and led the Denver Nuggets to their first championship in 2023. Among basketball player nba names, he is considered the most creative big man in modern NBA history.Nikola Jokić, nicknamed The Joker, continues to be an offensive mastermind. With 25+ PPG, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists per game, his near triple-double average is historic. As a former MVP and one of the best basketball players in 2025, his vision and calm dominance make him a unique superstar among NBA big men.

#6 - Dame Time - Damian Lillard

The nba player name “Dame Time” refers to Damian Lamonte Ollie Lillard Sr., his full name nba player. His nickname comes from his clutch shots in the final moments of games, often pointing to his wrist after hitting a buzzer-beater. This nba player real name made history with a 37-foot-game-winner against Oklahoma City in the 2019 playoffs. Among basketball player nba names, Dame Time defines late-game heroics. Damian Lillard, famously called Dame Time, lives for clutch moments. His late-game heroics and deep three-point shooting remain elite, averaging 26+ PPG in 2025. Lillard continues to be one of the best basketball players when the game is on the line, inspiring fans and teammates alike.

#5 - AD - Anthony Davis

The nba player name “AD” is short for Anthony Marshon Davis Jr., the full name nba player. This nickname was adopted early as fans found his long full name tough to chant. Known for his defensive dominance and shot-blocking, this nba player real name played a key role alongside LeBron in leading the Lakers to the 2020 NBA Championship. Basketball player nba names like AD stand for versatility and defense. Anthony Davis, aka AD, is back to his dominant self this season. He’s putting up 23 points, 12 rebounds, and nearly 3 blocks a game while anchoring one of the best defenses in the league. His elite rim protection and inside scoring solidify his position among the best basketball players in 2025.

#4 – Chef Curry – Stephen Curry

The nba player name “Chef Curry” belongs to Wardell Stephen Curry II, his full name nba player. His nickname “Chef” was inspired by his ability to “cook” defenses with incredible shooting skills. This nba player real name changed basketball forever by popularizing the three-point revolution and is a two-time MVP and four-time champion. Basketball player nba names like Chef Curry are synonymous with long-range accuracy. Stephen Curry, also known as Chef Curry, keeps cooking defenders even in his 30s. With 30+ PPG and a historic three-point percentage, Curry’s offensive output remains unreal. He’s not only one of the best basketball players in the NBA today but arguably the greatest shooter in history.

#3 – KD / Slim Reaper – Kevin Durant

The NBA player name “KD” or “Slim Reaper” represents Kevin Wayne Durant, whose full name nba player is iconic in basketball history. This nickname came from his slim frame and lethal scoring ability. He is a two-time NBA champion and one of the best scorers of all time. Few basketball player nba names dominate the game like KD. Kevin Durant, nicknamed both KD and the Slim Reaper, continues to be one of the most unguardable scorers in basketball. Averaging 28 points per game with his smooth pull-up jumper and elite shot creation, Durant remains one of the best basketball players of this generation. His leadership and playoff experience are invaluable in 2025.

#2 – The Greek Freak – Giannis Antetokounmpo

The nba player name “The Greek Freak” belongs to Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo, his full name nba player. This nickname stems from his Greek roots and freakish athletic abilities. He has won two MVPs and led the Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 NBA Championship. Few basketball player nba names combine size, speed, and strength like the Greek Freak. Giannis Antetokounmpo, also known as The Greek Freak, dominates both sides of the court with unmatched athleticism. With over 30 PPG, 12 RPG, and 5 APG in 2025, he is still in MVP form. Giannis’s two-way presence, leadership, and intensity make him one of the top two best basketball players in the world right now.

#1 – King James – LeBron James

The nba player name “King James” belongs to LeBron Raymone James Sr.. His nickname came from early comparisons to royalty in basketball due to his all-around talent. This NBA player real name is a four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP, and the league’s all-time leading scorer. Among all basketball player nba names, King James remains the face of the NBA. LeBron James, King James, defies age in 2025 by still performing at an All-NBA level. With averages close to 24 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds, his all-around brilliance continues. LeBron leads on and off the court and proves once again why he’s not only one of the best basketball players in 2025, but possibly the best basketball player of all time.