NBA players who are the biggest anime fans including Daniel Gafford, Thomas Bryant, and others
Anime, a form of Japanese animation, is extremely popular across the globe and has struck a chord with not only American youth and adults as fans, but also some of the biggest stars in the industry.
NBA players, being one-dimensional athletes, come from diverse backgrounds and have unique interests. A growing number of players have openly started to express their fascination with anime.
Several players have emerged, showing off their passion for anime while showcasing their favorite shows and/or characters. There is anime with many genres, from the more action-oriented stories to engaging and multi-layered storylines for the thinkers among us.
Let's take a look at some of the NBA players who have professed being avid anime fans.
7 anime players who are hardcore anime fans
1. Daniel Gafford - Fan of Dragon Ball Z
Daniel Gafford wears his anime fandom proudly. He has immortalized his passion for Dragon Ball Z by getting tattoos of three of the series' most iconic characters—Vegeta, Goku, and Gohan— on his left knee. These characters are nostalgic heroes from his childhood and symbolize the traits he admires and aspires to follow—resilience, growth, and unbreakable spirit.
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Gafford's choice to showcase his anime loyalty in such a visible and meaningful way reflects just how deeply anime—especially Dragon Ball Z—has influenced his mindset both on and off the court. According to reports, despite his father's objections during childhood, Gafford would sneak off to continue watching anime, proving his passion ran deep even at a young age.
2. Cole Anthony - Fan of Attack on Titan
Cole Anthony has been passionate about anime since he was in fifth grade, making it a significant part of his childhood and personal growth.
Among the many series that have captured his attention over the years, Attack on Titan stands out as one that left a particularly strong and lasting impression on him.
Anthony finds Attack on Titan incredibly captivating. The survival, sacrifice, and secret and revealing elements of the story have profoundly touched Anthony. The unexpected plot twists and new characters entertainingly affect him while pushing the boundaries of story-friendly storytelling.
3. Joel Embiid - Fan of Dragon Ball Z
Joel Embiid turns to anime as part of his mental preparation, especially during high-pressure games. The Dragon Ball Z series is his go-to for channeling energy and motivation. It is a globally beloved anime known for its epic battles, inspiring characters, and themes of perseverance and self-improvement.
He was even spotted watching the anime before a major playoff game against the Boston Celtics. When Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama passed away in March 2024, Embiid expressed his sorrow. Anime isn't just entertainment for Embiid—it's a source of emotional and motivational power
4. Jaylen Brown - Fan of Demon Slayer, Death Note, and more
Jaylen Brown appreciates anime for the storytelling and creative aspects.
The Boston Celtics star loves some of the big series like Demon Slayer, Death Note, Neo Yokio, and Seven Deadly Sins, too. Brown also watched Baki with former teammate Tacko Fall, and they connected over their mutual love for anime.
He loves watching popular series like Demon Slayer for the emotional depth and graphics, Death Note for its psychological intrigue, Neo Yokio for its individuality, and Seven Deadly Sins for its epic fantasy adventure.
Brown is related to former teammate Tacko Fall over Baki, an action-oriented martial arts anime.
5. Zion Williamson - Fan of Naruto
Zion Williamson finds profound personal inspiration in anime, particularly from the legendary series Naruto. Like Naruto, Zion relates to themes of perseverance, overcoming adversity, and staying true to oneself despite doubt from others.
The story of Naruto, filled with relentless training, strong friendships, and the pursuit of greatness, resonates deeply with Zion's mindset both on and off the court.
This connection to Naruto's narrative fuels his drive to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges he faces.
He collaborated with Nike to create a unique line of ninja-themed Air Jordan sneakers, blending his love for anime culture with his basketball career.
6. Thomas Bryant
Thomas Bryant, openly and proudly vocal about his affection for the genre, has often expressed that his knowledge of anime runs incredibly deep.
His extensive familiarity with anime series and characters illustrates how anime has become an integral part of his interests and lifestyle. His enthusiasm showcases the growing influence of anime culture within professional basketball circles.
7. Isaac Bonga - Dragon Ball Z
Isaac Bonga has often expressed his passion for anime, particularly for Dragon Ball Z.
Dragon Ball Z is one of the most iconic and influential anime series worldwide, known for its intense battles, memorable characters, and themes of courage, friendship, and relentless self-improvement. The show's protagonist, Goku, embodies the spirit of never giving up, inspiring fans like Bonga to push their limits both on and off the court.
Also read |
10 Hollywood celebrities who love anime from Dragon Ball to Naruto including John Cena, Ariana Grande and more
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