20 Biggest Black Holes In NBA History

In the NBA, a ‘black hole’ is a player who, once given the ball, rarely gives it up. This term was humorously applied to Kevin McHale by his teammates because of his incredible efficiency in the post—when McHale had the ball, you knew a basket was likely. His teammates didn’t mind because his play style led to points and victories.

But not all black holes are created equal. While McHale's reluctance to pass was a good thing, there have been players in NBA history whose refusal to share the ball was more of a detriment to their teams. These players were notorious for hogging the ball, often to the frustration of their teammates and fans. This article delves into the 20 biggest black holes in NBA history—players whose ball-hogging tendencies hurt their teams more than they helped.

1. Yinka Dare

Yinka Dare’s career is a textbook example of a black hole player. Drafted by the New Jersey Nets in 1994, Dare was a 7-foot center with a lot of potential. However, his time in the NBA is best remembered for his astonishing aversion to passing the ball. In his rookie season, Dare didn’t record a single assist. In fact, it took him until his third season to finally notch an assist on the stat sheet. By the time his career was over, he had played 1,002 minutes and recorded just four assists.

Dare’s inability to pass the ball made him a liability on the court, and his lack of court vision and unwillingness to involve his teammates in the offense overshadowed his physical gifts. While his rebounding and shot-blocking were respectable, his black hole tendencies significantly limited his effectiveness and ultimately shortened his NBA career.

2. Shabazz Muhammad

Shabazz Muhammad entered the NBA with high expectations after a standout college career at UCLA. Drafted 14th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2013, Muhammad was known for his scoring ability. However, his tenure in the NBA quickly became synonymous with tunnel vision on offense. Muhammad had a knack for getting buckets, but his reluctance to pass the ball and his single-minded focus on scoring often left his teammates frustrated and the offense stagnant.

Over his six-season career, Muhammad accumulated just 151 total assists. His rookie season was particularly telling, as he recorded only six assists in almost 40 games. This stark statistic highlights his extreme reluctance to share the ball, solidifying his reputation as the biggest of black holes.

Despite showing flashes of scoring brilliance, Muhammad's assist numbers were consistently low. Over his NBA career, he averaged just 0.5 assists per game, a glaring statistic for a player who often had the ball in his hands. His unwillingness to share the ball and engage in team play ultimately limited his role on the court. Coaches found it difficult to rely on him for anything other than scoring, making him a classic example of a black hole player whose individual talents didn't translate into team success.

3. Corey Maggette

Corey Maggette was known for his explosive athleticism and ability to score, but he also developed a reputation as one of the NBA's most notorious black holes. During his career, which spanned from 1999 to 2013, Maggette was a prolific scorer, often getting to the free-throw line with ease thanks to his aggressive driving style. However, his assist numbers were consistently low for a player who handled the ball as much as he did.

Maggette's career average of 2.1 assists per game pales in comparison to his scoring average of 16 points per game. His style of play often disrupted team flow, as he would frequently halt ball movement to create his own shot. While his ability to score was valuable, his tendency to focus solely on his own offense rather than involving his teammates made him a frustrating player to watch and play with.

Maggette had a career-high of 6 assists in a game, but such instances were rare. His ball-stopping tendencies often led to stagnant offenses, especially when he was in isolation situations. Maggette's career shooting percentage of 45.2% was solid, but his focus on scoring over passing limited his effectiveness as a team player. His reluctance to pass the ball frequently disrupted the flow of the offense, making it difficult for his teams to maintain a cohesive strategy.

4. Hassan Whiteside

Hassan Whiteside is a prime example of a player whose impressive individual stats don't always translate to team success. Known for his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess, Whiteside's defensive skills have never been in question. He led the league in blocks during the 2015-16 season and in rebounds in the 2016-17 season. However, his play style on the offensive end has often been criticized for being a black hole.

Whiteside has a tendency to call for the ball in the post and rarely looks to pass once he gets it. His assist numbers tell the story: throughout his career, Whiteside has averaged just 0.7 assists per game. For a player who frequently touches the ball in scoring positions, this is remarkably low. His reluctance to pass out of double teams or make the extra pass has often led to a stagnant offense. His career-high in assists for a single game is just five, a figure that many guards and even some forwards surpass regularly.

Whiteside’s black hole tendencies were particularly evident during his time with the Miami Heat and later with the Portland Trail Blazers and Sacramento Kings. Despite his defensive abilities, his inability to involve his teammates on the offensive end made it challenging for these teams to integrate him into a cohesive and successful unit. His limited passing and offensive versatility have ultimately overshadowed his defensive contributions, making him a polarizing figure in the NBA.

5. Moses Malone

Moses Malone is one of the greatest rebounders and scorers in NBA history, but even he wasn't immune to criticism about his play style. Malone’s ability to dominate the boards and score efficiently in the post made him a Hall of Famer, but his reputation as a black hole stemmed from his reluctance to pass the ball once he got it.

Throughout his illustrious career, Malone averaged 1.3 assists per game, a relatively low number considering his extensive offensive responsibilities. Malone was known for his relentless work on the offensive glass, often grabbing his own misses and putting them back up for scores. While this hustle and determination were commendable, it also meant that once he had the ball near the basket, it rarely came back out.

Despite these tendencies, Malone's overall impact on the game was undeniable. He was a three-time NBA MVP, a 12-time All-Star, and a Finals MVP in 1983 when he led the Philadelphia 76ers to a championship. His rebounding and scoring were vital to his teams' successes, even if his play style sometimes leaned towards being a black hole.

6. Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony , one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, had a career filled with incredible offensive achievements. Drafted third overall in the 2003 NBA Draft, Anthony quickly established himself as a dominant scorer with a versatile offensive game. However, his reputation as a black hole on offense was well-documented and remained a point of criticism throughout his career.

Anthony has had several high-scoring games that exemplify this reputation. Notably, he had a game where he scored 62 points without recording a single assist against the Charlotte Bobcats on January 24, 2014. He also had a 50-point game with just 2 assists against the Miami Heat on April 2, 2013, and another 50-point game with zero assists against the Houston Rockets on February 7, 2011. These performances highlight his ability to dominate offensively but also his reluctance to involve his teammates in the play.

Anthony's scoring ability was unquestionable, with a career average of 22.5 points per game. However, his career average of 2.7 assists per game was relatively low for a player who often had the ball in his hands. When Melo received the ball, he frequently went into isolation mode, focusing on creating his own shot rather than looking to facilitate for his teammates. This approach often led to stagnant offensive possessions and made it difficult for his teams to maintain a fluid offense.

Despite these tendencies, Anthony's impact on the court was significant. He was a key player for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks , where he enjoyed some of his best seasons. In the latter part of his career, Melo showed a willingness to adapt to more complementary roles, but his legacy as a black hole remains a notable aspect of his storied career. Anthony retired as one of the top scorers in NBA history, leaving behind a complex legacy of both individual brilliance and criticism for his ball-dominant.

7. Adrian Dantley

Adrian Dantley is a Hall of Famer and one of the most efficient scorers in NBA history, but his play style often drew criticism for its ball-stopping tendencies. During his career, which spanned from 1976 to 1991, Dantley was a six-time All-Star and two-time scoring champion. Known for his ability to score in the post and draw fouls, Dantley averaged an impressive 24.3 points per game over his career. However, his career average of just 3.0 assists per game highlighted his reluctance to share the ball.

Dantley's offensive game was highly methodical. He would often isolate in the post, using his strength and footwork to score or draw fouls. While this made him an effective and reliable scorer, it also meant that the ball would frequently stop with him, disrupting the flow of the offense. His tendency to hold onto the ball and focus on his own scoring opportunities often led to criticism that he was a black hole on the court.

Despite these criticisms, Dantley's scoring ability was a key asset for the teams he played for, including the Utah Jazz and Detroit Pistons. His efficiency and scoring prowess could not be denied, but his reluctance to pass and involve his teammates fully limited the overall offensive effectiveness of his teams.

8. Marcus Morris

Marcus Morris has carved out a solid NBA career as a versatile forward known for his scoring ability and toughness. However, his play style has often been criticized for its ball-stopping tendencies. Morris, who has played for several teams including the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Clippers, is known for his ability to create his own shot and score in isolation situations. While this makes him a valuable scoring option, it also means that the ball tends to stick with him, leading to a more stagnant offense.

Throughout his career, Morris has averaged 1.5 assists per game, a relatively low number for a player frequently involved in the offense. His inclination to take on his defender one-on-one and his preference for mid-range jumpers often result in possessions where the ball doesn't move much. This style of play can disrupt the offensive flow and limit opportunities for his teammates.

Despite his scoring prowess, Morris's black hole tendencies have been a point of contention. Coaches and teammates value his ability to score, but there have been instances where his reluctance to pass and his focus on creating his own shot have hindered team dynamics. While his toughness and scoring ability are assets, his play style has sometimes made it challenging for his teams to maintain a cohesive and fluid offense.

9. Alfredrick Hughes

Alfredrick Hughes is a lesser-known name in NBA history, but his brief stint in the league left a lasting impression as a quintessential black hole player. Drafted 14th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 1985 NBA Draft, Hughes entered the league with a reputation as a prolific scorer from his college days at Loyola University Chicago. However, his transition to the NBA was marked by his inability to adapt his game to a team-oriented style.

In college, Hughes had some remarkable and dubious achievements. Notably, he once missed 20 consecutive shots in a game against Bradley. During his junior season at Loyola, he took 655 shots and finished the year with only 17 assists, highlighting his tendency to dominate the ball. Despite this, he scored enough points to be a standout player, leading to his first-round selection by the Spurs, just a few picks ahead of Joe Dumars.

During his lone NBA season in 1985-1986, Hughes played 68 games and averaged 5.2 points per game. Despite his scoring background, he struggled to make an impact on a professional level, largely due to his reluctance to pass the ball. Hughes averaged a mere 0.7 assists per game, highlighting his tendency to hold onto the ball and look for his own shot rather than facilitating for his teammates. This approach made it difficult for him to find a consistent role on a team that required more ball movement and less isolation play.

10. Nick Young

Nick Young, also known by his self-proclaimed nickname "Swaggy P," is one of the most colorful and entertaining characters in recent NBA history. Known for his scoring ability and flashy style of play, Young's career has been filled with memorable moments both on and off the court. However, his play style has often been criticized for its black-hole tendencies, as he was notorious for rarely passing the ball once it was in his hands.

Throughout his career, Young averaged 11.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. His primary focus was always on scoring, whether through his three-point shooting or driving to the basket. While this made him a valuable scoring option off the bench, it also meant that the ball movement often stalled when it reached him.

Despite these criticisms, Young had some notable achievements, including winning an NBA Championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2018. His scoring ability was never in doubt, and he could catch fire and score in bunches, making him an exciting player to watch. However, his reluctance to pass and involve his teammates in the offense limited his effectiveness and consistency throughout his career. Nick Young's legacy in the NBA is a mix of entertaining highlights and a clear example of a player whose black-hole tendencies were both his strength and his weakness.

11. Monta Ellis

Monta Ellis was one of the most electrifying and dynamic scorers during his time in the NBA. Known for his blazing speed, quick first step, and ability to score from almost anywhere on the court, Ellis made a name for himself as a high-volume shooter and scorer. However, his play style often drew criticism for being too focused on individual scoring, earning him a reputation as a black hole on offense.

Throughout his career, Ellis averaged 17.8 points per game, but his assist numbers, while respectable at 4.6 per game, often didn’t tell the full story. Ellis was a primary ball-handler and scorer, but his decision-making could be questionable. He frequently took difficult, contested shots and preferred to create his own offense rather than facilitate for his teammates. This ball-dominant style often led to inefficient possessions and limited ball movement, which could stall the team's offense.

Ellis's time with the Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, and Dallas Mavericks showcased both his scoring prowess and his black hole tendencies. While he was capable of putting up big numbers, his tendency to dominate the ball and take low-percentage shots sometimes hindered his team's overall performance. Coaches and teammates valued his ability to score, but there were times when his reluctance to pass and his focus on personal offense became a detriment.

12. Jordan Poole

Jordan Poole , currently playing for the Washington Wizards, had a challenging 2023-24 season. After being traded from the Golden State Warriors, Poole was expected to take on a more prominent role. However, his performance was inconsistent, highlighting areas needing improvement.

Poole played 78 games, averaging 17.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Despite these numbers, his shooting percentages were disappointing: 43.2% from the field, 32.9% from three-point range, and 85.0% from the free-throw line. These percentages reflect his struggles with shot selection and efficiency. His ball-dominant style often led to stagnant offensive possessions, disrupting team flow.

In addition, Poole's decision-making and defensive consistency were problematic. He averaged 1.1 steals per game but often displayed lapses in defensive effort. For the Wizards to develop a cohesive and effective offense, Poole needs to balance scoring with playmaking and improve his defensive reliability. His ability to adapt and refine his game will be crucial for both his individual success and the team's overall performance.

13. Eric Piatkowski

Eric Piatkowski, known for his three-point shooting, played 14 seasons in the NBA from 1994 to 2008. Drafted by the Indiana Pacers and then traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, Piatkowski was often relied upon for his perimeter shooting. Despite his ability to knock down threes, he earned a reputation as a black hole due to his limited passing and playmaking.

Piatkowski's career averages of 1.3 assists per game underscore his reluctance to distribute the ball. While he was effective in his role as a shooter, his tendency to focus on scoring rather than facilitating often led to stagnant offensive possessions. This was particularly evident during his time with the Clippers, where he played the majority of his career. Although his shooting provided spacing for his teams, his lack of versatility and ball movement limited his overall impact.

Piatkowski's best years came with the Clippers, where he set franchise records for three-pointers made. However, his one-dimensional playstyle meant that once he had the ball, it was unlikely to be passed. This hindered the offensive flow and made it easier for defenses to predict and counter his actions.

14. Dion Waiters

Dion Waiters, a talented yet polarizing figure in the NBA, is known for his scoring ability and confidence on the court. Drafted fourth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2012 NBA Draft, Waiters quickly made a name for himself as a player unafraid to take big shots. However, his play style often earned him criticism for being a black hole on offense, as he frequently looked to score rather than pass.

Throughout his career, Waiters averaged 13.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. While these numbers show his scoring prowess, they also highlight his reluctance to involve teammates. Waiters' tendency to take contested shots and his preference for isolation plays often led to inefficient offensive possessions. This style was evident during his stints with the Cavaliers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers.

15. Michael Porter Jr.

Michael Porter Jr ., currently playing for the Denver Nuggets, has demonstrated significant scoring potential since entering the NBA. Drafted 14th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, Porter has averaged 17.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game in the 2023-2024 season. His shooting percentages are impressive, with 49.3% from the field and 41.4% from three-point range. Despite these strengths, Porter’s assist numbers highlight his reluctance to pass the ball, contributing to his reputation as a black hole on offense.

Porter's offensive game is highly focused on scoring, often at the expense of ball movement. His tendency to take contested shots and his preference for isolation plays can lead to inefficient offensive possessions. While his ability to score is a valuable asset, the lack of playmaking can disrupt the team's offensive flow, making it difficult for teammates to stay involved. Porter's growth as a player will depend on his ability to balance scoring with facilitating for others, enhancing his overall impact on the court.

16. Brandon Bass

Brandon Bass, a solid power forward during his NBA career, was known for his consistent mid-range shooting and physical presence. Over his 12-year career, Bass averaged 8.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. His shooting percentage was a notable 49.3% from the field, underscoring his efficiency as a scorer. However, his assist numbers remained low, reflecting his tendency to focus on individual scoring rather than involving teammates.

Bass's reluctance to pass the ball often led to criticism of his play style. His career highlights include significant contributions to the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers, where he was valued for his scoring and rebounding. Despite this, his one-dimensional offensive game sometimes hindered team dynamics, as his limited passing reduced offensive fluidity. Bass's career exemplifies the challenges of balancing individual scoring prowess with the need for team-oriented play.

17. Bobby Portis

Bobby Portis had a solid season with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023-24, playing 82 games and averaging 13.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. He shot 50.8% from the field and an impressive 40.7% from three-point range, showcasing his ability to stretch the floor as a forward. However, his play style has often been criticized for being somewhat one-dimensional, focusing heavily on scoring and rebounding while providing minimal playmaking, as evidenced by his low assist numbers.

Portis' role with the Bucks primarily involved coming off the bench to provide scoring and rebounding. His ability to score efficiently from mid-range and beyond the arc made him a valuable offensive asset, but his tendency to hold onto the ball and not facilitate for teammates contributed to his reputation as a black hole. Despite this, Portis' energy and hustle were crucial for Milwaukee, especially in games where he dominated the boards and provided second-chance points.

His performance in the playoffs was notable, with standout games such as a 29-point, 10-rebound effort in Game 5 of the first round against the Indiana Pacers. However, his inconsistency, particularly in decision-making and defense, sometimes limited his effectiveness on the court. Moving forward, Portis' ability to expand his game beyond scoring and rebounding will be key to his continued success and impact on the team.

18. Al Jefferson

Al Jefferson, a former NBA center known for his scoring ability in the post, had a notable career spanning over a decade with teams like the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets, and Indiana Pacers. Jefferson was a dominant low-post scorer, averaging 15.7 points and 8.4 rebounds per game over his career. His best seasons came with the Timberwolves and Jazz, where he regularly averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game.

Despite his scoring prowess, Jefferson was often criticized for his lack of passing and defensive deficiencies. With career averages of only 1.5 assists per game, he rarely facilitated for his teammates, leading to a stagnant offense when the ball went into the post. His defensive struggles were another issue, as he often found himself outmatched against quicker and more athletic opponents.

Jefferson's play style embodied the classic black hole archetype: once the ball was in his hands, it was likely going up. While this made him a reliable scoring option, it also made him predictable and limited his teams' offensive versatility. His ability to score in the post was valuable, but his overall impact was often mitigated by his inability to contribute in other areas such as playmaking and defense. Despite these limitations, Jefferson enjoyed a productive NBA career, earning All-NBA Third Team honors in 2014.

19. Michael Beasley

Michael Beasley, known for his scoring prowess and versatility, had a career that spanned over 11 seasons with various NBA teams, including the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, and New York Knicks. Drafted second overall in the 2008 NBA Draft, Beasley showed promise with his ability to score from multiple positions on the court. Throughout his career, he averaged 12.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game.

Beasley's best season came in 2010-11 with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he averaged 19.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Despite his scoring ability, Beasley was often criticized for his defensive shortcomings and lack of consistency. His shooting percentages were solid, with a career average of 46.5% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range. However, his tendency to hold onto the ball and take difficult shots earned him a reputation as a "black hole" on offense.

Beasley's NBA journey was marked by his potential and moments of brilliance, but also by struggles with off-court issues and inconsistencies that prevented him from becoming a star. Despite these challenges, he remained a capable scorer and an intriguing player throughout his time in the league.

20. Tim Hardaway Jr.

Tim Hardaway Jr., son of NBA legend Tim Hardaway, has carved out a respectable career as a reliable scorer and shooter. Drafted 24th overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, Hardaway Jr. quickly established himself as a solid offensive player. Over his career, he has played for the Knicks, Atlanta Hawks, and Dallas Mavericks, averaging 13.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game.

Hardaway Jr.'s strength lies in his ability to shoot from long range, with a career three-point shooting percentage of around 35.8%. His best season came in 2018-2019 with the Knicks and Mavericks, where he averaged 18.1 points per game. However, like many volume scorers, he has been criticized for his shot selection and defensive lapses. His tendency to take contested shots and dominate possessions without much ball movement has sometimes stalled his team's offenses.

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