If you're an OKC fan, you'll probably ignore this, and that's okay. As a fan of your team, you have every right to do so.
The deeper issue isn't just SGA - though he polarizes fans the most, and for good (or bad) reason. If the NBA wants to become a watchable sport again, especially in the playoffs, it can't keep going like this.
Yes, the art of drawing fouls has been encouraged by the rules and the way games are officiated. But just because something is technically allowed doesn't make it good or exciting to watch.
As a neutral fan - someone who might be tuning into basketball for the first time, someone from outside the U.S., but also someone who's watched the game for over 30 years - I can only sit here and shake my head.
You think the focus on SGA is unfair because other players flop too? There are levels to this. The scrutiny is magnified because he's the reigning MVP and is likely going to win it again.
So the real question is: how does the NBA move forward? If the league doesn't change the rules or the officiating, why would SGA (or any other star) stop doing it?
Is it fun to watch? Is it good for the sport? Is it a great example for younger players and fans around the world? No. Do I understand why he does it? Absolutely.
Both things can be true at the same time. What's also true is that this has to be addressed and changed - and that responsibility lies mostly with the NBA, not the players.
Video source: @Hero_OfThe_Day
@ProFootballDoc When he says against air, that usually means no defenders, not literally just against air with no ball. So he hurt it just throwing the ball to receivers running routes with no defenders
It's Blue Friday and we've got a GIVEAWAY‼️ RT to win a @qdiggs6 signed jersey + two tickets to the next home game.
#Sweepstakes | https://t.co/Awip5LIPTw
*starts up practice mode*
“I am a man, man, man, man
Up, up in the air
And I run around, round, round, round
this down town and act like I don't care…”
Clayton Kershaw's gameday routine is super detailed.
• 2:00: Arrives at the field
• 2:30: Eats lunch
• 3:00: Reviews the opponent's lineup
• 3:30: Throws a Blitz Ball against the wall
• 4:00: Takes a nap on the training table
• 5:00: Team meeting
• 5:15: Weight room warm-up
• 5:58: Heat packs
• 6:23: Takes the field for stretching
• 6:40: Plays catch
• 6:57: Finishes warming up (before anthem)
• 7:08: Takes the field for the game
He's been doing this routine for a decade — and it's no wonder he's one of the best.
(h/t @BleacherReport)
After being born premature, Derick Hall was given a one percent chance to live.
Hall's mother refused to sign a Do Not Resuscitate form and instead fought for her son's life. Now he's made it to the @NFL with the @Seahawks ❤️
The Dodgers clinched a playoff spot in mid-April and their fans are going ballistic for a fourth inning game-tying knock against the Dbacks in late September. It must be very cool to play at home for the Dodgers.