Ruffling Feathers: Why the NBA Needs its Villains
Shannon Sharpe | Credit: Harry How via Getty Images
By: Joshua Martin
The recent “dust ups” in NBA arenas, from Uncle Shay Shay and Dillon Brooks heated exchange last friday in Crypto.com arena to Pat Bev’s broken clock gesture antagonizing All star guard Damion Lillard on his home court, gave me fond memories of when NBA players cautiously tip-toed the line of on court pest to straight up menace.
The Memphis Grizzlies are currently embracing the rough and braggadocious stereotype that most squads tend to shy away from. The NBA has done well navigating the rough terrain that was caused by the Malice at the Palace and the “NBA is full of Thugs” era. But let’s be honest we all like a little bit of an edge in our sports stars, we applaud it!!
"I take full accountability for what transpired. I was wrong."@ShannonSharpe apologizes & addresses his altercation at the Lakers-Grizzlies game: pic.twitter.com/RNFBydr5A6
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) January 23, 2023
Though Shannon Sharpe did apologize the following Monday, eloquently I might add, on his national syndicated sports show, the emotions that were seen in that moment were real and authentic and quite frankly gave the Lakers enough juice to pull off the improbable victory.
Instigators?? Trash Talkers?? Fire Starters?? Whatever you want to call them, personalities such as these bring a little bit of extra energy, spark that is greatly appreciated. In a much “softer league” compared to when players were just mauling each other, there are few villains of the game who can stir the pot all the same.
"There are some dudes that are just soft as putty."@stephenasmith on how the mindset of NBA players today is different from back in MJ's era. pic.twitter.com/csdZ8jnBAY
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 6, 2020
Pat Beverly
Pat Bevelry | Credit: Steph Chambers via Getty Images
When I think of Patrick Beverly, I instantly think Irritant. Probably most known for causing havoc than his on court performances, Pat Bev backs down from no man. Though some of his actions have crossed the line, Russel Westbrook injury ‘13, he is the perfect example of a guy you love to have on your team but hate to go against.
Draymond Green
Draymond Green | Credit: Stephen Lam via The Chronicle
This guy gets away with a lot. This off season he made headlines for punching out his own teammate over a trivial dispute. Statistically his impact is minimal but what he brings in energy and intangibles is unmatched. To Be Honest, there's no way the Golden State Warriors without Draymond. However, if there were a ‘Justice League’ of NBA super villains he would be Superman.
Chris Paul
Chris Paul | Credit: Matt York via AP Photo
A notoriously dirty player, CP3 is known for getting under the skin of his peers. Not known as a trash talker per se’ but his publicly documented on court antics definitely earn him the title of antagonist. “The Point God” is a top 10 point guard of all time but his prickly personality at times it seems, often thrusts him into some peculiar situations.O yeah, Magic Johnson, the Late Great Bill Russell…
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
