Why is the NBA world currently hating on Karl Malone and John Stockton? A detailed timeline of their controversies

Karl Malone and John Stockton are the two best players in Utah Jazz history. They played together for almost two decades, making the NBA Finals twice, but losing to the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan both times.

Malone and Stockton were incredible athletes. Stockton was an iron man and a fantastic playmaker, while Malone dominated his opponents with post moves and rebounding.

Unfortunately, both of them have been very controversial as well. Despite both making it to the Hall of Fame, Karl Malone and John Stockton are among the most hated athletes in 2023, and here is why.

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Karl Malone and John Stockton are very controversial

John Stockton had a relatively quiet life after retiring in 2003. The former Utah Jazz point guard finished his career with 15,806 assists, becoming the league's all-time assist leader.

Unfortunately, Stockton has used his popularity to spread numerous false claims regarding COVID-19 and vaccines over the last few years. He's even refused to wear a mask, which is why he wasn't allowed to attend several big events.

Karl Malone and John Stockton got their statues in Salt Lake City, Utah (Image via Getty Images)

Stockton has deliberately spread misinformation regarding the pandemic, including false claims that hundreds of athletes died due to COVID-19 vaccines. He also appeared in "V-Revealed, COVID Edition," an anti-vaxx film.

You may be interested in reading: Who is John Stockton's wife, Nada Stepovich? Questions around Jazz star's life arise after controversial remarks resurface

The Utah Jazz legend was also labeled a racist by some fans. The label came from his support of a woman who participated in the United States Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021.

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Karl Malone's troublesome history

Karl Malone and John Stockton used to dominate the basketball court a few decades ago, but have become a laughing stock ever since. They've received a lot of hate for their actions off the court, which is why their reputations have been ruined.

Malone impregnated a 13-year-old child shortly before he entered the NBA. He was 20 at the time and was a standout college basketball player at Louisiana Tech University. The girl's name was Gloria Bell and she gave birth to Demetress Bell, a former NFL player.

Karl Malone and John Stockton have both been very controversial (Image via Getty Images)

Malone refused to acknowledge the child, which made the situation even worse. The basketball star also had two other children that he abandoned as he became a father for the first time when he was only 17.

You may be interested in reading: When Karl Malone reportedly harassed Kobe Bryant's wife Vanessa Bryant with comments about her descent: "I’m hunting for little Mexican girls"

During the 2003-04 season, Malone played for the LA Lakers as he tried to win a championship ring before retiring. He played alongside several all-time great players, including Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal.

Unfortunately, the controversial forward hit on Bryant's wife during his tenure with the Lakers. His behavior was completely unacceptable, which has caused a rift between him and the legendary Lakers guard.