• Former NBA forward Michael Beasley sparked debate during a livestream by joking about tattoos on darker-skinned players, questioning their visibility and value. His comments reignited discussions about tattoos in the NBA, their role in player identity, and the quirky “no tattoo MVP” trend.

LOS ANGELES, CA — Former NBA forward Michael Beasley sparked heated debate during a recent appearance on Adin Ross’ livestream by delivering a bold, comedic take on tattoos and dark skin. While joking with Lance Stephenson, Beasley questioned the value of tattoos on darker-skinned players, claiming they’re hard to see and therefore a waste of money. His comments, delivered in his signature half-serious, half-sarcastic style, have reignited conversations around tattoos in the NBA and their role in player identity and league culture.

Beasley’s Take: “What Are Y’all Doing Wasting Money?”

During the livestream, Beasley pointed at Stephenson and said, “I didn’t know you had tattoos. Him, Kevin Garnett, Patrick Beverley… what are y’all doing wasting money on tattoos? Look, you can’t see them.” While his remark was meant as a lighthearted roast, it touched on deeper questions about visibility, cultural expression, and the impact of appearance on player marketability.

Interestingly, Beasley’s comment coincides with a viral stat circulating basketball forums: none of the last nine NBA MVPs have had visible tattoos. This streak includes stars like Russell Westbrook (2017), James Harden (2018), Giannis Antetokounmpo (2019, 2020), Nikola Jokic (2021, 2022, 2024), Joel Embiid (2023), and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2025). Although purely coincidental, the “no tattoo MVP” trend has fueled a lighthearted debate about whether it reflects a shift in player priorities or is simply a quirky anomaly.

Michael Beasley revealed on Adin Ross’s stream he didn’t know Lance Stephenson had tattoos until they were teammates because they’re hard to see 😭 pic.twitter.com/VaLTG0YDEI

— Beast (@BeastDontMiss) June 10, 2025

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

Tattoos in the NBA: A Cultural Staple or Optional Flair?

The NBA has long embraced tattoos as a form of self-expression, dating back to Allen Iverson’s era, when he popularized the “tattooed baller” look. Today, players like LaMelo Ball continue to push the boundaries of tattoo culture in the league. Ball, whose heavily inked torso recently went viral, even faced league scrutiny for a visible neck tattoo promoting his brand “LaFrance.” The NBA reportedly asked him to cover it up during games, reigniting conversations about how tattoos intersect with league rules and personal branding.

The Broader Conversation Around Tattoos and Player Impact

Beasley’s comments also tap into a deeper dialogue about visibility and how tattoos are perceived on darker skin tones. While some players, like Jokic and Embiid, have opted for a clean-skinned look, others see tattoos as essential to their identity and storytelling. Whether it’s a nod to their upbringing, personal struggles, or creative self-expression, tattoos remain central to the league’s aesthetic.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT

From a performance perspective, however, ink—or the lack of it—has no bearing on a player’s success. Fans on social media were quick to point out that winning MVP requires focus, skill, and consistency, not body art. One fan joked on Twitter, “Unless tattoos can shoot threes, I don’t think Jokic or Shai are worried about missing out.”

The Takeaway: Performance Over Appearance

While Michael Beasley’s quip may have been all in good fun, it highlights fascinating nuances within NBA culture. Tattoos will always be a personal choice, influenced by factors like visibility, branding, and self-expression. But as the “no tattoo MVP” trend shows, what truly matters in the league is performance.

What do you think? Should tattoos play a role in how players are perceived, or is this debate overblown? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below!

Follow The Dupree Report On WhatsApp

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10