Not just for aesthetic reasons, NBA stars know how to use tattoos to contain very special meanings.Most NBA players have one or more tattoos on their bodies. These inked drawings have become an indispensable “accessory” in sports. In addition to the aesthetic factor, many tattoos also carry very special meanings.

Kobe Bryant

Whether you’re a fan of the great shooter or not, you can’t help but notice the tattoo on Kobe’s right bicep – a tattoo that includes a crown, butterflies, and a myriad of abstract images underneath.

A closer look reveals Kobe’s wife Vanessa’s name, flanked by angel wings and the words “Psalm 27.” The tattoo is a tribute to Kobe’s wife, an act of repentance after his own cheating scandal. The crown is a reflection of Kobe himself, while the butterflies represent his three little girls.

Tattoos for Kobe’s wife and daughter.

LeBron James

LeBron James has countless unique tattoos covering his toned body, but one tattoo stands out the most: the words “Chosen” on King James’ back.

James was once nicknamed “The Chosen 1” by Slam Magazine, which is one of the reasons why James gave this line a very large position on his back. James considers this tattoo a great source of motivation to always play his best, worthy of being “the chosen one”.

“Chosen 1” – “The Chosen One” is LeBron James’ nickname.

Wilson Chandler

Wilson Chandler has spent a lot of time and effort on tattoos, perhaps more than any other NBA player to date. It’s hard to count the number of tattoos the 31-year-old has, but there’s one tattoo in particular that most people will notice when they first meet him: a realistic portrait of Wilson’s daughter.

The shooter also has a giant tattoo of the comic book character Juggernaut on his back, which Wilson explained represents his strength and powerful dunking skills.

Wilson Chandler and his daughter tattoo in the middle of his neck.

DeAndre Jordan

Like Wilson, DeAndre Jordan’s body is almost completely covered in ink. However, these tattoos are completely separate from each other, as if they are independent works of art with their own separate meanings.

Jordan has a tattoo of an H inside a star on his right shoulder – representing his hometown of Houston. He also has a basketball tattoo on his left bicep, next to the names of his mother and brother Jordan.

Clown DeAndre Jordan has tattoos dedicated to his hometown and family.

Chris Andersen

And of course, when talking about tattoos and NBA players, fans will definitely remember “Birdman” Chris Andersen. In addition to his strength under the basket and impressive Mohawks, Birdman’s body is covered in colorful tattoos.

Birdman is quite fond of colorful tattoo styles.

After serving a three-year suspension for drug use, Andersen pledged to get clean and return to the NBA. Birdman’s “Free Bird” tattoo on his neck is a tribute to his favorite band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, whose songs helped Birdman get through his darkest times. Chris Anderson uses his tattoo as a reminder to keep moving forward and never give up on his dreams.