Ex-Duke star is the most hated NBA player in North Carolina, study finds

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — North Carolina’s most hated NBA player is a former Duke Blue Devil, a study has found.

The study from RotoWire found Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum to be the most hated player in the Tar Heel State.

Tatum is also the second-most hated player nationally, landing the top spot in 13 states, including the entire Southeast “where Celtic fatigue runs deep and Boston’s playoff success in recent years has worn out its welcome”, according to the study.

According to the study, Tatum is also the most hated player in Los Angeles and Hawaii due to the historic rivalry between the Celtics and Los Angeles Lakes.

“His combination of genuine superstar talent and a perceived smug on-court demeanor makes him the perfect villain for anyone not rooting for Boston,” the study reads.

Tatum played for the Duke Blue Devils for one season from 2016 to 2017. Following his freshman year, he was selected third overall in the 2018 NBA draft by the Celtics.

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green is the nation’s most hated NBA player, according to the study, holding the top spot in 16 states.