A History of Player-Coach Beefs in the NBA

Because we can't all just get along.

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

In the NBA, coaches and players do not always get along. It’s to be expected, really; in what sport is there ever a 100 percent satisfaction rate between players and their coaches? Gripes over playing style, playing time, and management techniques are commonplace, but in most cases everyone learns to work together and keep their focus on the greater good.

Sometimes, though, that doesn’t happen. The dysfunction reaches new heights, often in very public displays. Whether you’re talking about Dwight Howard and Stan Van Gundy's awkward press conference or Allen Iverson ranting and raving about Larry Brown and practice, the volatile relationship between player and coach has been known to occasionally boil over. Sixteen years ago, Latrell Sprewell choked out P.J. Carlesimo during practice. Check out a History of Player-Coach Beefs in the NBA.

Wilt Chamberlain vs. Butch van Breda Kolff

Not Available Interstitial

Spencer Haywood vs. Paul Westhead

Not Available Interstitial

Latrell Sprewell vs. P.J. Carlesimo

Not Available Interstitial

Brian Shaw vs. Brian Hill

Not Available Interstitial

Gary Payton vs. Paul Westphal

Not Available Interstitial

Allen Iverson vs. Larry Brown

Not Available Interstitial

Vince Carter vs. Lenny Wilkens

Not Available Interstitial

Kobe Bryant vs. Phil Jackson

Not Available Interstitial

Stephon Marbury vs. Larry Brown

Not Available Interstitial

Shaquille O'Neal vs. Stan Van Gundy

Not Available Interstitial

Stephon Marbury vs. Isiah Thomas

Not Available Interstitial

Richard Hamilton vs. John Kuester

Not Available Interstitial

Deron Williams vs. Jerry Sloan

Not Available Interstitial

Dwight Howard vs. Stan Van Gundy

Not Available Interstitial

Rajon Rondo vs. Doc Rivers

Not Available Interstitial

Latest in Sports