Small-Market Teams with 'Big-Market' Superstars

It takes a true superstar to lead a team in a major city, but some of the NBA's most talented and charismatic players are in smaller markets.

Captivating a big market is about more than just putting up impressive numbers. In an age when an athlete's every move is deconstructed in the blogosphere and on Twitter, a superstar must be an engaging and entertaining personality. That said, he must make sure his extracurricular activities do not detract from his contributions on the court.

Let's take a look at the five small-market NBA stars most capable of walking that media tightrope on the biggest stage.

Honorable Mention: Tim Duncan

Though Tim Duncan could definitely play in a big market, he'll be a San Antonio Spur for life.

Even at the ripe old age of 36, Duncan is still performing at a high level. Through Dec. 20, he is putting up 17.6 points and 10.4 rebounds in 30.6 minutes per game. The future Hall of Famer is averaging a double-double for the 14th time in his illustrious career.

Duncan is famously reserved off the court, but is by no means off-putting. In fact, the media has crafted a persona for him based on his reticence; see this Sports Illustrated feature lauding Tim Duncan, the quiet dominator.

The Onion has also taken Duncan's personality and run with it, getting as many laughs out of the Spurs big man as they have from any athlete.

That said, Duncan is certainly going to retire in San Antonio. Speculating about him playing anywhere else is moot.

5. LaMarcus Aldridge

LaMarcus Aldridge gets little notoriety playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, but he has the tools to perform in a bigger market.

Just looking at Aldridge's accolades gives a good sense of how people have overlooked him. He was named third team All-NBA following the 2010-11 season, but he would not play in his first All-Star game until February 2012. With 21.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game this year, Aldridge will likely be an All-Star staple for years to come.

He has also displayed a creative side that would delight the media in a major market. Take a look at Aldridge's cameo as himself on IFC's "Portlandia," stealing the scene with his self-awareness and his sweater.

On the court, Aldridge is a beast inside. Off it, he has an affable charm. There's little flashy about him, but he could be considered a superstar if he got some more attention.

4. Russell Westbrook

Though Russell Westbrook is a bona fide stud, throwing big-market media scrutiny on him could be disastrous.

In his four-year career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook has established himself as one of the most divisive players in the league. He's currently attempting over 17 field goals per game for the third straight season, and his 17.9 in 2012-13 is a team high, ahead of Kevin Durant.

Though his offensive inefficiency can be maddening, Westbrook is still one of the most dynamic talents in the league. He is second only to Rajon Rondo as a threat to put up a triple-double.

When Westbrook is on fire, few players are more dangerous.

Between his raw ability and his eclectic taste (see just about any of his fashion choices), a major media market could fall in love with Westbrook. On the other hand, it could brand him "Public Enemy No. 1" due to his reckless play.

There is reward along with the risk for Russell Westbrook, so he has a chance to succeed on a larger stage.

3. Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving is one of the youngest stars in the league and one of the most engaging personalities.

He ran away with the 2012 Rookie of the Year award with 18.5 points and 5.4 assists per game, and he's come out even stronger this season. Though he has played only 15 games due to injury, Irving raised his averages to 23.7 points and 5.7 assists and is shooting even better from the field, too.

The remarkable thing about Irving is that no one ever knocked him down a peg. This is a 20-year-old kid who challenged Kobe Bryant to a game of one-on-one, and Dan Devine of Yahoo! Sports thought that Kobe was the one talking too much game.

Irving's game has earned him respect well beyond his years. Between that and the unlimited likability of his Uncle Drew character, Irving has what it takes to succeed anywhere.

2. Kevin Love

Kevin Love has a style of play that could appeal to any fanbase.

First and foremost, Love is an absolute beast in the post. He's currently putting together his fourth consecutive season averaging at least 11.0 rebounds per game, and few players are as good at establishing their position inside.

Love's game isn't all banging around inside, though. He complements that physical dominance with a three-point shot that is still improving, giving him exciting offensive versatility and firepower.

On top of that, Love has a laid-back personality that would help him cope with intense media attention. Between his full-court shot attempts and his supporting role in the Uncle Drew series, Love has what it takes to win over the media in good times and withstand the heat in bad times.

1. Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant's superstardom has put Oklahoma City on the map.

In his five seasons in a Thunder uniform, Durant has always averaged at least 25.0 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Even scarier, at 24 years old, he's still getting better.

So far this season, Durant is putting up 27.1 points and 8.3 rebounds, and he's been more efficient from the field and from beyond the arc than ever before.

Much like Duncan, Durant has a reputation as a consummate professional. However, while Duncan displays his workmanship through impeccable post play, Durant keeps his game up by lighting up Rucker Park during the lockout.

Oklahoma City was just another expansion city when the Thunder came to town. Now it is home to a title contender with a rabid home crowd. With an energizing talent like Durant on the court, that's no surprise; he could electrify any market he plays in.