You ever look outside your window, see high school kids walking home and for some reason are stricken with the burning desire to lift your cane in the air and shake it vigorously while yelling “get off my lawn”! ? Well if so, the latest group of basketball stars may just re-enforce your faith in humanity.
There used to be a time when incoming groups of players were brash and outspoken, painting themselves as saviors and superstars before even stepping on a court. Everything was about being flashy and standing out, embracing your celebrity. It’s the type of character that leads to instant hatred. I mean Lebron never stood a chance.
In an interview with Andy Katz soon after the Cavaliers were awarded the number one overall pick back in 2003, Lebron can be seen sporting a Nike headband, a large cross pendant chain and openly discussing being on a team he hadn’t even been drafted to yet. Now everyone and their mother knew Cleveland wouldn’t pass on James, heralded as the next big thing and a savior for any franchise lucky to get him. But playing dumb and staying humble is the “mature” thing to do. But this was a different time.
Enter 2014’s draft class. Countless interviews show a different type of attitude, humility.
When asked about possibly playing for his hometown Toronto Raptors, Andrew Wiggins admitted it would be a great feeling to play back home but acknowledged he has no preference for a specific team to select him, “No favorite team…I’ll play for whoever wants me..”
It’s not necessarily a shocking statement but for a player with the hype and talent that Wiggins possess, he’s nearly a lock for the number one selection but you wouldn’t tell by his calm, unenthusiastic demeanor.
When compared to his Kansas teammate Joel Embiid, it’s the same story. Not the type to beg for the spotlight. Embiid, who had at one point challenged Wiggins for the top selection consideration amongst NBA analysts, up until a few days ago was still undecided on whether or not to enter the draft. Even after he displayed talent worthy of a top three selection, Embiid was pondering whether staying another year in school would allow him to grow more as a player and mature off the court. A far cry from the days of Kevin Garnett when players made the jump straight to high school.
Duke forward Jabari Parker is currently pondering his choice of whether to make the jump to the next level. Even with him assured a top 5 selection, his stock could get no higher. But what is his hang up?
“A deciding factor is where I’m going to grow the most, whether it’s in the NBA or even in college, the learning experiences that I need as far as (growing as) a basketball player.”
Welcome to the new NBA.
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