In the ever-evolving world of professional basketball, style and appearance often share the spotlight alongside skill and athleticism. While some NBA players are known for their signature beards that have become part of their identity, there exists a group of hoopsters who have chosen to keep their faces clean-shaven, embracing a distinct look that sets them apart from their bearded brethren. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of NBA players without beards, exploring the unique styles and personas of these athletes who have decided to let their game do the talking, unburdened by facial hair fashion statements.
1. Nikola Jokić
Nikola Jokić, a center/power forward for the Denver Nuggets, is an exceptional player in the NBA, helping his team win the championship in 2023. He’s renowned for his exceptional passing ability and basketball IQ, which are uncommon for a player of his position. Jokić’s versatility and scoring skills make him a cornerstone of the Nuggets’ offense.
Although you may see Nikola with an occasional scruffy goatee, he is almost always clean-shaven and never has a full beard. There are actually memes of Jokić where he rocks long hair and a thick beard; clearly this is something fans would like him to try out. With how popular he is today in the league, have some unique features about his appearance would develop his cult following even more.
2. Aaron Gordon
Aaron Gordon is a versatile forward who currently plays for the Denver Nuggets. Throughout his career, he has been known for his remarkable athleticism, particularly in his dunking prowess. Gordon has been a valuable contributor to various NBA teams, including the Orlando Magic and the Nuggets, where he brings athleticism and defensive skills.
While known to switch up his hairstyles pretty frequently, Gordon has been consistent with his approach to facial hair, or lack thereof. Similar to Nikola, Aaron Gordan will sometimes be seen with a little bit of scruff on his chin, but nothing more than that.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo:
Giannis Antetokounmpo, a forward for the Milwaukee Bucks, is one of the NBA’s most prominent stars. He has achieved two NBA MVP awards and led the Bucks to an NBA Championship in 2021. Giannis is celebrated for his unparalleled athleticism, versatility, and ability to impact both ends of the court.
Giannis almost always has a clean appearance. He is as consistent with his appearance as he is with his performance on the court. When Giannis first started in the league, he almost didn’t look like he was old enough to grow facial hair. There have been some debates on if the 7x All Star should at least attempt to grow a beard, but many agree that he may not have the genetics to grow one that is thick and full.
4. Bol Bol:
Bol Bol, a center/power forward for the Orlando Magic, possesses a unique combination of height and skills. Standing tall and slender, he’s known for shot-blocking and three-point shooting. However, injuries have hindered his playing time, and he is working to establish himself as a consistent NBA presence.
Off of initial glance, Bol Bol seems to have almost no facial hair; this may be due to his genetics. Manute Bol; Bol Bol’s father and former NBA player, seems to have passed down his inability to grow facial hair down to his son. In almost every picture you see of both Manute and Bol, neither of them have even a hint of a beard, goatee, or mustache. Whether it’s by choice or not, Bol Bol is as clean-shaven as they come.
5. Josh Giddey
Josh Giddey, a guard/forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is a promising young talent in the NBA. His playmaking ability and high basketball IQ have caught the attention of many. With room to grow, Giddey has the potential to become a versatile and impactful player in the league.
Giddey is another athlete who is much more well-known for the hair on his head than the hair on his face. His locks are pretty thick and wavy, which has even started a TikTok trend titled, “How To Get Josh Giddey Hair”, garnering over 280 million views. Once, Giddey actually tweeted about potentially cutting his hair; this caused fans to freak out a bit and beg him not to do so.
Although his hair is a defining characteristic of his, facial hair seems to be something that is less of a focal point for the young star.
Below is a list of other NBA players who also do not have beards, according to their most recent pictures on the NBA website.
- Mo Bamba
- Paolo Banchero
- Grayson Allen
- Desmond Bane
- Scottie Barnes
- RJ Barrett
- Emoni Bates
- Bogdan Bogdanovic
- Gradey Dick
- Kevin Huerter
- Thanasis Antetokounmpo
- Luke Kennard
- Walker Kessler
- Jonathan Kuminga
- Lauri Markkanen
- Austin Reeves
- Dennis Schröder
- Collin Sexton
- Jericho Sims
- Jordan Walsh
- Yuta Watanabe