In the Paint: Tattoos of the NBA and the Stories Behind Them

For many, the name Dennis Rodman conjures up much more than a picture of a basketball player; it evokes an image of shocking hair, outrageous tattoos and that amazing solo wedding. And while Rodman is unfortunately not featured in this collection of the NBA's most popular and wondered-about tattoos, stars like Shaq and Hardaway share the meaning (or the lack thereof) behind the tattoos they proudly display. Shaquille O'Neal's surprising response to what informed his decision to get tattooed with the Superman logo, his kids' names, Against the Law, etc., is""First of all, I got my tattoos because I was allowed to get them. You better believe I asked my mother first."" The""Part 2 Heaven Cent"" tattoo etched on Penny Hardaway's left arm represents his spiritual side (""I wanted something to do with Christ"") and the""Cent"" plays on the name Penny. Jason Williams, on the other hand, admits:""Ah, hell, man. I don't have no meaning behind my tattoos,"" echoing the sentiment of several other players who have tattoos just because they like them. Closeup shots and honest explanations straight from the tattoo bearers may please and enlighten curious NBA fans. 25 b&w and 75 full-color photos.