Give LeBron James his Flowers While He’s Still Playing
Am I Wrighster or Am I Wrong? Us sports fans have to stop being haters. Appreciating greatness like LeBron James while he is still here is important. However, we will miss him when he’s gone. Clay Travis advocated for coronavirus herd immunity for college football. It was dumb, and I had to call him out.
Analytics in Sports are Important
Analytics in sports are very valuable and extremely useful tools for winning a lot of games. However, manalytics are much more valuable and the only way to win a championship.
NBA MVPs but not Championship Contenders
NBA MVP system is broken when MVPs aren’t real title contenders. Giannis Antetokounmpo is a 2-time MVP but won’t make the Finals.
Give people their flowers while they are here to smell them, See LeBron James
Clay Travis advocated for coronavirus herd immunity for college football. it was dumb
Analytics are valuable but Manalyics matter more valuable
NBA MVP voting needs an overhaul
Wrighster or Wrong?
Am I Wrighster or Am I Wrong? The intersection where sports, business, society, and pop culture meet. Daily Fire… FACTS ONLY… Check Your feelings at the door. This ain’t the place for the left, right, snowflakes, social justice warriors. ABSOLUTELY No BS. I keep it 100.
The George Wrighster podcast features great interviews where you get to know great people discussing faith, family, fatherhood, food, and sports. We get to know and learn from the personalities that entertain us outside of what they are famous for. Shoot me an email with comments or guest ideas: GWpodcast@unafraidshow.com. Please be sure to share the podcast with a friend, subscribe, and leave a 5* rating.
Who is George Wrighster?
George Wrighster is a former Pac-12 and veteran NFL tight end. As a television/radio host, opinionist, writer, speaker, and analyst, he is UNAFRAID to speak the truth. Contrary to industry norms he uses, facts, stats, and common sense to win an argument. He has also found success in the business world as an entrepreneur and investor. George is a lifelong learner who loves having conversations that educate and uplift. He has also covered college football, basketball, NFL, NBA, MLB since 2014.
Just when you think the NBA Bubble couldn’t get any crazier, the Denver Nuggets decided to eliminate Los Angeles Clippers in humiliating fashion. Let’s not beat around the bush. Let’s talk about the Clippers.
Top Story: Bye Bye, Clippers
1, 2, 3, Cancun! For a team that talked the talk the entire season, the Los Angeles Clippers did not walk the walk. Saying they walked even a little is disrespectful to those who can walk! In Game 7, the Nuggets came back from a 3-1 series deficit to defeat the Clippers, 104-89. When the Clippers needed Kawhi Leonard and Paul George the most, they were nowhere to be found.
Paul George and Kawhi Leonard combined to go 0-11 with 0 points in the 4th quarter of Game 7. pic.twitter.com/m6thHDovcG
Why did we believe in the Clippers? I am not free from ridicule. I believed the Clippers would at least make the Western Conference Finals before losing to the Lakers. I thought Kawhi, PG, and the boys could “turn it on” when it mattered most. Boy, was I WRONG. This team showed no heart whatsoever. The Nuggets came back from deficits of 16 points, 18 points, and 12 points in the final three games of the series to send the Clippers on a one way trip to Cancun. The Nuggets deserve all the credit in the world. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray played like superstars, but unfortunately, the bigger story lies with the underachieving Clippers.
Did the Clippers choke? I see a lot of writers saying they don’t like to use the word, “choke.” What other words would you use to describe this situation? The Clippers blew a 3-1 lead as a double-digit favorite to a team with 1 player who has made it past the second round. The Clippers choked.
Miami Heat Thought Of The Week: This Team Doesn’t Die
Last week, I professed my love for the Miami Heat. I am fully on the Heat bandwagon. Butler, Dragic, Bam, Herro, Duncan, and Jae have made me a believer. This team plays hard on both ends of the floor for 48 minutes. In the first two games against the Celtics, the Heat overcame deficits of 14 points and 17 points to win both games and take a 2-0 series lead. To quote Austin Powers, “Why won’t you die?”
The biggest mismatch in this series occurs in the coaching department. Brad Stevens is one of the best coaches in the NBA, but he’s getting dominated by Erik Spoelstra. In fact, Spoelstra, who’s a Top-5 coach in the league, is running laps around Stevens. From playing zone defense to shortening his lineup, Spoelstra has made the perfect adjustment to everything thrown his way. It’s a coaching clinic. If Stevens doesn’t figure it out, the Celtics will join the Clippers in Cancun.
Week 7 MVP: Bam Adebayo
That Bam Adebayo is some player, huh? Bam is having the week of his life. Bam, a runnerup for Most Improved Player, has been a true game-changer for the Heat. Bam made one of the best blocks I’ve ever seen in my life to seal the victory in Game 1. LeBron’s block in Game 7 is the best defensive play I’ve ever seen, but if I’m judging it purely based on the block itself and degree of difficulty, Bam’s could be the best ever.
Bam Adebayo with one of the best blocks in playoff history. And no doubt the best since LeBron’s chasedown on Andre Igoudala. I still can’t get over it. THIS IS UNREAL pic.twitter.com/GHVNU1YeI2
In Game 2, Bam got to the rim at will, especially in the second half. Bam finished with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists as the Heat took a commanding 2-0 series lead.
Bam Adebayo had more dunks (5) in the third quarter than the Celtics had field goals (4). pic.twitter.com/MI22LLtKKk
Week 7 LVP: Every Player And Coach On The Clippers
I hate beating a dead horse, but for all the shit the Clippers talked, they deserve every joke thrown their way. The Clippers will be a favorite to make the NBA Finals next year (if the team stays together), but for now, let’s enjoy the roast while we can.
Paul George and Patrick Beverly have been apprehended after leaving the bubble and boarding a plane to Cancun. Authorities found massive bricks in George's bag pic.twitter.com/oij8muYwf2
Remember LeBron James, one of the greatest basketball players to ever live? Yeah, that guy has a chance to win his fourth title. The stage is set for LeBron to win his fourth ring as the Lakers are the clear favorite to win it all inside the NBA Bubble. Can the King deliver?
What are your top storylines from Week 7 inside the NBA bubble? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.
A different-looking NFL Season will start this season, as 2020 will feel a sense of normalcy. The regular season will begin on its scheduled day of September 10, as the Kansas City Chiefs will start their title defense against the Houston Texans. Super Bowl 55 is scheduled to take place in Tampa, Florida on February 7, 2021.
As with the MLB Season prediction, this NFL prediction was used with the aid of NFL Playoff Predictor. Anyone can input their prediction for who will win and predict their champion. However, there can only be one team that lifts the trophy at the end of the season.
Why the Baltimore Ravens Will Win the Super Bowl
The
Baltimore Ravens were the story of the NFL last season until they weren’t. They
are led by Lamar Jackson, the reigning NFL Most Valuable Player. However,
Jackson and the Ravens’ regular season success did not translate into
postseason success, as they lost to the Titans in a 28-12 clunker.
Many have criticized Lamar Jackson’s two postseason performances. The Ravens fell behind early in both games, which they did not experience a lot of, especially during the 2019 regular season. Some may label this team as frontrunners, but they made some adjustments in the off-season.
.@markingram21 was voted Best Personality in the NFL…
The Ravens had an eventful off-season because of one player: Earl Thomas. The team released him after he punched defensive lineman Chuck Clark in an altercation during practice. It will be interesting to see how the Ravens as a team respond to this, but they have the pieces to possibly make a championship run. If Lamar Jackson shows even more improvement in his throwing abilities, the Ravens will have a chance and should be the favorites to win the Super Bowl. My prediction is that they will beat the New Orleans Saints in Tampa Bay.
It
may be hard for fans to be confident in the Saints to win big games in the
playoffs. They will be judged on their postseason performance this year. The
past three years, they arguably should have gone at least one round further. It’s
Super Bowl or bust in New Orleans.
However,
the NFC has been an arena of unpredictability the past few seasons. The 49ers
ended up making the Super Bowl last year, which was a surprise. While they had
dealt with injuries, their running game proved lethal and almost vaulted them
right to the top of the league. Some teams get to go from a losing record to
the mountaintop, like the Eagles did in the 2017 NFL Season.
Others, such as the Saints, have to play the long game of making the playoffs every year and being disappointed. A Super Bowl has to happen for this era of Saints football, right? They have been among the NFC favorites for three seasons running now. This year may be the last chance with Drew Brees to win the championship.
Overall Standings Prediction For 2020 NFL Season
Here were the overall standings in the prediction:
AFC
North
(1)
Ravens 12-4
Steelers
8-8
Browns
7-9
Bengals
3-13
AFC
South
(4)
Titans 11-5
(5)
Texans 11-5
Colts
8-8
Jaguars
2-14
AFC
East
(3)
Patriots 11-5
(6)
Bills 10-6
Dolphins
5-11
Jets
4-12
AFC
West
(2)
Chiefs 12-4
(7)
Broncos 9-7
Raiders
7-9
Chargers
4-12
NFC
North
(3)
Vikings 11-5
(7)
Packers 10-6
Lions
5-11
Bears
5-11
NFC
South
(1)
Saints 12-4
(5)
Buccaneers 12-4
Panthers
8-8
Falcons
4-12
NFC
East
(4)
Eagles 10-6
Cowboys
7-9
Washington
5-11
Giants
4-12
NFC
West
(2)
Seahawks 12-4
(6)
49ers 11-5
Cardinals
9-7
Rams 7-9
The Two Teams People Are Underestimating for 2020 NFL Season: Patriots and Cardinals
Apparently Bill Belichick is not the greatest coach of all time. All I am hearing is that the Patriots will not be as good this year. While on paper their roster is not necessarily scary, Belichick and his staff always get the best out of their players. They have simply made the Super Bowl too often to be counted out already.
In
2016, when Tom Brady was suspended, the Patriots went 3-1 with quarterbacks Jimmy
Garoppolo and Jacoby Brissett making their first career starts. Patriots
offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is one of the best in the league at
maximizing his talent. Cam Newton is going to make the Patriots running back
corps a bigger threat. While James White is no Christian McCaffery, he plays
similarly. Also expect Sony Michel to have the best season of his career. If
Cam Newton stays healthy, the New England offense will be a threat.
Another team that no one will want to play is the Arizona Cardinals. Kyler Murray is going into his second season and now has DeAndre Hopkins to throw the football to. Having both Hopkins and Larry Fitzgerald will help Murray build upon his first season. While the Cardinals may not make the playoffs due to a packed NFC conference, they will be a tough out every week. Their offense will be lethal.
Cowboys Among Mediocre Teams Looking to Break Through
Bar keeps gets pushed higher for QBs such as Dak Prescott and Lamar Jackson…. pic.twitter.com/KjdO7FC6Kz
The
Cowboys might have four wins already against the Giants and Washington this
season. However, they will still struggle to win their division. Expect their
offense to be better, but the x-factor for them will be how the defense does
under first-year head coach Mike Nolan. Everything this team does is
scrutinized. It is hard to evaluate Dak Prescott as a quarterback because of
the team he plays for. New head coach Mike McCarthy will be able to get more
out of him this season. However, Prescott is not the type of player who can
carry a team.
Did
we get the prediction right? What team’s prediction did we butcher? Let us know
by tweeting us @unafraidshow. Here’s to a safe and successful 2020 season.
Last week, the players went on strike. This week, the players put on a show as the competition was at an all-time high. A soon-to-be two-time MVP bounced from the bubble, the LA teams established their dominance, and two words, Game 7. That’s a hell of a week inside the NBA Bubble.
In the end, Miami was too hot to handle. Before we talk about Giannis, let’s give the Heat the majority of the credit. They were the better team the entire series. Even if you take away the bogus calls to end Game 2, Miami still wins that game. Despite two of the games ending with a differential of a combined five points, this series really wasn’t that close. The Heat dominated almost every statistical category including assists, rebounds, 3 pointers made, and free throws made. Jimmy Butler looks like a genius for asking out of Philadelphia to join a young Heat squad led by Erik Spoelstra, who coached circles around Mike Budenholzer. To quote Mr. Buckets, “I told you. We got some motherfuckers that can ball on this team. Say I’m fucking right. Say I’m fucking right. I told you.” Jimmy, you were right. Your squad can ball and currently owns the best record in the playoffs at 8-1. In an unprecedented season, toughness will prevail, and the Heat are as tough as they come.
The Giannis Thought Of The Week: The Giannis Sweepstakes Are In Full Force
This was supposed to be the year Giannis got over the hump. Everything was set up for Giannis and the Bucks to reach the Finals. Did the pandemic change things? Absolutely. Milwaukee earned the right to play in front of their fans. However, every single team had to face the same set of circumstances inside the NBA Bubble. The Heat rose to the occasion while the Bucks floundered their opportunity. I’m not going to hold Game 5 against the Bucks because their star didn’t play, but in Games 1-4, the Bucks were outplayed and outcoached. The right group of players is not surrounding Giannis. The Greek Freak is not a point forward who can create his own jump shot and pull up from 3. (Giannis shot 21% from 3 in the Heat series.) Giannis is a downhill, dominant wing who thrives in transition, where he can get to the basket at will.
The elephant in the room is Giannis’s contract situation in Milwaukee. He’s eligible for the largest contract in NBA history and can sign it this fall. If he chooses to wait, all hell will break loose. Every team will try to make a play for the 25-year-old superstar. Take LeBron’s decision and the Kawhi trade and multiply it by 10. That’s what’s in store for the NBA if Giannis doesn’t sign the deal this fall. Giannis needs a point guard, and Chris Paul could be the perfect fit. My advice to the Milwaukee front office is to buy more phones because the lines will be ringing nonstop this offseason.
LA Question Of The Week: Will The Clippers And Lakers Make The Conference Finals?
Yes.
Next question.
Kawhi Leonard continues to take the Clippers to where the franchise has never been 👀 pic.twitter.com/Gx32zgFv0T
Can the Nuggets and Rockets make it interesting? It’s possible. Maybe both teams steal Game 5 and keep their respective seasons alive. Can they both win Game 6 and Game 7? No chance. Kawhi and LeBron will not let that happen. Fans want Clippers vs. Lakers. The NBA wants Clippers vs. Lakers. I want Clippers vs. Lakers. Do you see a reoccurring theme?
Did somebody say “Tyler Tuesday?” Tyler Herro has a swagger and confidence you can’t teach. From shooting his shot with model Katya Elise Henry to wanting the ball in big situations, this kid is fearless. Miami will only go as far as Jimmy Butler and Goran Dragic take them, but if Miami wants to make the NBA Finals, they will need Herro to bring that confidence every night.
Yahoo Sources: Houston Rockets guard Danuel House Jr. under investigation for potentially allowing a female COVID-19 testing official into his room. https://t.co/EyrjgJD5sl
According to @ShamsCharania, a female entered the Rockets team hotel on Monday night, exiting the hotel early Tuesday morning, and the league cited “early data points that implicated” Danuel House and Tyson Chandler. 👀
Latest at @TheAthleticNBA on NBA investigating improper visit to Rockets’ team hotel by female coronavirus staffer with Houston F Danuel House Jr. as the focus: https://t.co/OyNfaDI4sG
We have some drama in the bubble! I hope the cameras behind the scenes documented this moment. Is Danuel House lying about not having contact with a female? Is House a fall guy for his teammate? Where is TMZ when you need them?
Storyline For Week 7: Conference Finals
If I have to pick the Conference Finals, I’ll say Heat vs. Celtics in the East and Lakers vs. Clippers in the West. Sign me up.
What are your top storylines from Week 6 inside the NBA bubble? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.
Am I Wrighster or Am I Wrong? These topics and more are covered on the podcast and video. The Phrase “Get Woke Go Broke” is a Con Job… Its Catchy but there is no truth to it in sports. Sports hosts use it to try and make it seem as if leagues are losing money. They are not! Steve Nash is the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets. There’s no White or Black Privilege in that decision.
Rutgers University Sucks
Rutgers University is doing something so gross it sounds unbelievable. Fining college players $50-125 for missing tutoring. These are unpaid athletes.
NBA MVPs but not Championship Contenders
NBA MVP system is broken when MVPs aren’t real title contenders. Giannis Antetokounmpo is about to be a 2-time MVP but won’t make the Finals.
The phrase “Get Woke Go Broke” is a Con Job… It’s Catchy but there is no truth to it in sports.
Steve Nash is the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets. Stop the White or Black Privilege talk.
Rutgers University is doing something so gross it sounds unbelievable. They are fining college athletes.
THE NBA MVP system is clearly broken because the most recent MVPs aren’t real title contenders.
Parting Shot: Winter is coming
Wrighster or Wrong?
Am I Wrighster or Am I Wrong? The intersection where sports, business, society, and pop culture meet. Daily Fire… FACTS ONLY… Check Your feelings at the door. This ain’t the place for the left, right, snowflakes, social justice warriors. ABSOLUTELY No BS. I keep it 100.
The George Wrighster podcast features great interviews where you get to know great people discussing faith, family, fatherhood, food, and sports. We get to know and learn from the personalities that entertain us outside of what they are famous for. Shoot me an email with comments or guest ideas: GWpodcast@unafraidshow.com. Please be sure to share the podcast with a friend, subscribe, and leave a 5* rating.
Who is George Wrighster?
George Wrighster is a former Pac-12 and veteran NFL tight end. As a television/radio host, opinionist, writer, speaker, and analyst, he is UNAFRAID to speak the truth. Contrary to industry norms he uses, facts, stats, and common sense to win an argument. He has also found success in the business world as an entrepreneur and investor. George is a lifelong learner who loves having conversations that educate and uplift. He has also covered college football, basketball, NFL, NBA, MLB since 2014.
Last week was monumental when the players went on strike. After talking it over, the players and owners agreed on new social justice initiatives to carry out for the near future. Once basketball started up again in the NBA Bubble, it was a damn treat to watch. However, as Bill Belichick would say in this exact situation, “We’re on to the Second Round.”
Top Story: Young Talent Takeover
In terms of talent, the NBA is positioned for great success over the next decade because of their wealth of young talent. Jamal Murray and Donovan Mitchell, both 23-years-old, slugged it out for seven games, one-upping each other with each possession. It felt like a battle of two heavyweights. Check out these stat lines from both players.
Jamal Murray
Donovan Mitchell
These two young men gave it everything they had and more. Unfortunately, one guy had to go home and that team belonged to Mitchell. The Nuggets may have bested the Jazz thanks to a wild final sequence, but both Murray and Mitchell realized the gravity of the situation and showed nothing but respect towards each other.
Murray and Mitchell are two budding superstars that have the potential to become All-NBA guys and faces of the league. Add Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic and the NBA could have their version of “Four Horseman.” LeBron is still the top dog, but the young guns are coming.
Surprise Of The Week: James Harden Makes The Defensive Play Of The Bubble
James Harden’s legacy and narrative were set to experience a crushing blow last night. Quite simply, Harden had an atrocious night on the offensive side of the ball. Despite being the most gifted scorer in the NBA, Harden couldn’t hit the Atlantic Ocean while standing in a boat. The beard had a pedestrian 17 points on 4-15 shooting including 1-9 from 3. If the Rockets lost, that would have been the final straw for Harden’s defenders. As talented as he is, last night would have been added to Harden’s list of playoff clunkers and hiccups. Right before pressing “Send” on the anti-Harden tweets, Harden made the play of the NBA Bubble. Harden blocked Lu Dort on a game-winning 3 point attempt to preserve the win. Who would’ve thought that a Harden defensive play would be the reason why the Rockets advance? Now, Harden can add to his legacy if he slays the beast that is LeBron.
Time to Gloat: I Was Right About The Miami Heat
This will be a popular take, but Miami is the most dangerous team in the East. If I'm Milwaukee or Toronto, I would NOT want to see the Heat in the second round. #NBA
You can make the argument that Jimmy Butler is in the Top 10 for players you’d want to lead your team in the playoffs. The man brings it every single possession. #nba
Full disclosure, I picked the Bucks to win the Eastern Conference so you can take my tweets with a grain of salt. However, I bet the Heat both games and so far, it’s paid off nicely. I’m in love with the Miami Heat. From their coaches to their players, I love the toughness they bring every night. Butler and the kids look like a team that is not afraid of the moment. With a 2-0 lead, the Heat may throw a wrench in everyone’s bracket.
In my Week 1 recap, I asked if we should be worried about the Bucks following a loss to the Brooklyn Nets in a game where Milwaukee was the biggest regular-season favorite in history. One week later, I asked if the Bucks were in trouble due to a lack of support for Giannis. It’s now been three weeks since that post and I’m close to pronouncing the Bucks as dead. They were outplayed in both games and despite a controversial foul call against Giannis in Game 2, the Heat deserved to win that game. Giannis needs to find his Superman cape quickly or his 2021 free agency discussions will only intensify.
Week 5 MVP: Lu Dort
Despite the loss, Lu Dort put on an absolute show last night in Game 7.
Youngest to Score 30 in G7 Yrs-Days Lu Dort 21-136 Ton. vs HOU Kevin Durant 22-228 2011 vs MEM Tommy Heinsohn 22-230 1957 vs STL LeBron James 23-140 2008 at BOShttps://t.co/sXoMwVerq0
I had no idea who Lu Dort was, but now, he’s an Internet darling. Good for this kid. From undrafted rookie to 30 point scorer in a winner-take-all game, I have to give my props to the Church of Dort.
Week 5 LVP: Billy Donovan
What are you doing Steven Adams!!! Cut to the basket. Covington dives down and Schroder is wide ass open for a game winner. pic.twitter.com/4bODwKQ1S6
NFL End Zones Leave Social Justice Haters Nowhere to Hide
Am I Wrighster or Am I Wrong? The NFL is painting “End Racism” and “It Takes All of Us” in the end zones of all its. Now, every major professional sports league is in on social justice. What will the keep politics out of sports crowd going to watch? Sports…Duh. Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins had some interesting things to say about the coronavirus, but the headlines left out the fact he’s wearing a mask.
Big Ten Conference May Play Fall Football
In an obvious political move, Donald Trump contacted the Big Ten in an attempt to get them to play football immediately. It is reported he offered increased availability of testing and contact tracing access. The Big XII and ACC conferences have no contingency plan for Covid-19. What have they been doing for the last few months?
NBA Ref Scott Foster vs Harden and CP3
Referee Scott Foster as the lead ref for Game 7 between James Harden’s Houston Rockets and Chris Pauls’s Oklahoma City Thunder is a gift from the NBA. They both hate him.
NFL is painting End Racism in the end zones. What is the keep politics out of sports crowd going to watch? Sports…Duh
Donald Trump and Clay Travis’ attempt to bully the Big Ten doesn’t appear to work.
Scott Foster reffing Game 7 between Harden and CP3 is a gift
Big XII and ACC have no plan for Covid-19. What have they been doing?
Parting Shot: Kirk Cousins “If he dies, he dies”
Wrighster or Wrong?
Am I Wrighster or Am I Wrong? The intersection where sports, business, society, and pop culture meet. Daily Fire… FACTS ONLY… Check Your feelings at the door. This ain’t the place for the left, right, snowflakes, social justice warriors. ABSOLUTELY No BS. I keep it 100.
The George Wrighster podcast features great interviews where you get to know great people discussing faith, family, fatherhood, food, and sports. We get to know and learn from the personalities that entertain us outside of what they are famous for. Shoot me an email with comments or guest ideas: GWpodcast@unafraidshow.com. Please be sure to share the podcast with a friend, subscribe, and leave a 5* rating.
Who is George Wrighster?
George Wrighster is a former Pac-12 and veteran NFL tight end. As a television/radio host, opinionist, writer, speaker, and analyst, he is UNAFRAID to speak the truth. Contrary to industry norms he uses, facts, stats, and common sense to win an argument. He has also found success in the business world as an entrepreneur and investor. George is a lifelong learner who loves having conversations that educate and uplift. He has also covered college football, basketball, NFL, NBA, MLB since 2014.
This
week, the NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS all postponed games in wake of the shooting of
Jacob Blake, a 29-year old black man, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The shooting occurred
on Sunday, August 23.
Unfortunately, the issue of police brutality has become so divisive in United States society. Many players have come to the forefront for causes they believe in, such as police reform and voting rights mainly.
Athletes Need Fan Support When Deciding to Boycott Pro Sports
Pro athletes across America and in Colorado are saying no justice, no games. A word on the reaction from some fans: pic.twitter.com/iHFA3ZTTwv
Professional athletes are taking a stand. These athletes will not stand for police brutality and voter suppression, but are being met with push back by some fans. There are people that believe that players should shut up and play. Fans may feel this way because they could not decide to not go to work, for example, and be able to take a stand in a way similar to what professional athletes have done.
However, it is close-minded to think that players do not have a distinct purpose and reason for their actions. Yes, they are in a position where they can afford to protest by not “working” in a sense. But for change to occur in society, there needs to be prominent figures at the forefront. The players made the right decision to postpone games on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday because now there is more attention on issues that US citizens should care about. Whether or not one agrees with some of the positions that players have on these issues, players need fan support in the same way they need fan support on game night.
Decision to Postpone or Play Games Should Be Players’ Decision
There have been many people who have called for pro sports teams for the postponement of their games, while some have decided to play their games. If fans want to truly support their players, they will realize that each player views the situation differently. Some players believe that they can show solidarity by not playing. Others feel like playing gives them a platform to be vocal about these issues. Players have been both praised and criticized for the position they have taken.
In the end, the decision to play or not play should be up to the players. Fans can choose whether to support the players’ decision or not. There are charity events and initiatives that players give their time to for the fans. It is time that fans support players in whatever decision they make about playing, whether or not they agree with it.
The NHL players played on Wednesday. On Thursday, they made a united decision to postpone games Thursday and Friday. There was backlash from certain people over the decision to play Wednesday. Some, including Philadelphia Flyers coach Alain Vigneault, were so focused on playoff hockey. There simply was not enough time for some people within the NHL’s two hub cities to fully grasp the situation.
NBA players were already thinking about their actions days earlier. That is the main reason they were able to come to their decision quicker. They thought about the potential ramifications of their decision and decided to resume play on Saturday. NBA players have been the most vocal about the issue of police brutality. They are the reason that August 26, 2020, will always be remembered.
However, the way both leagues handled the situation was acceptable. Even though the NHL was late to the party, they are playing their games in another country. It was better for the NHL to fully digest the situation from an outsider’s view and make an informed decision.
NBA players know their owners have political influence in their cities. The players are doing their part to affect change in the world. It’s time for more of the owners to step up to the plate and not just stand on the sideline.
Divisiveness a Main Narrative Being Written About the USA Right Now
Some fans do not want to watch sports anymore because they feel that through protesting that politics are being brought into sports. Fans may not agree with the avenue in which players are protesting or the causes they are protesting for. This is okay. But right now, the players need to know they have fan support.
There are numerous narratives being written about what is going on in the United States of America right now. However, when some say blanket statements that single other people out in a negative light, they should not expect a positive reaction from their opponents.
Even if we get a Democrat in the office. Keep that same energy. it’s the same fight. Same laws that restrict us. Same old generation that’s thinks the way they do. Real talk. Keep goin
A frustrating aspect of these protests is the partisanship that could be associated with them. For example, Los Angeles Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma tweeted Wednesday night about how momentum would need to continue “even if we get a Democrat in the office.” Someone who supports the decision by the NBA players to protest, but does not necessarily identify as a Democrat, could be put off by this statement. However, the divisive political rhetoric of 2020 is the reason that Kuzma feels this way.
Kimberly Guilfoyle, says. “They want to destroy this country and everything that we have fought for and hold dear.”
Translation: they want people of color to be equal to us. We’ve fought to hard to keep them mentally enslaved we must hold on to that!
There is rhetoric from people that identify as both Republican and Democrat that is extremely frustrating to see. Kuzma tweeted about his belief that there was fear-mongering from Kimberly Guilfoyle, who was speaking at the Republican National Convention. When the term “lawlessness” is being thrown around by people like Kimberly Guilfoyle when describing protests in communities where people like Jacob Blake lived, of course there is going to be outrage.
Issues are Divisive, and People Not Acknowledging Different Viewpoints Could Be Damaging
Kimberly Guilfoyle fails to acknowledge that the majority of people in the streets are peacefully protesting. The protesters want to see a positive change in society. They also realize how real the problem of systemic racism is in the United States of America. People like Guilfoyle come under fire from so many people is because they have not made a simple acknowledgment to Black people that their lives matter. Guilfoyle and many others spoke at the Republican National Convention. They failed to show any solidarity towards the Jacob Blake shooting or the issues that players care about.
Everyone’s vote matters. Every US citizen should have the right to vote. If people want to go to the voting booth, it should be an easy process. Governments have to aid in this effort, and it seems like this is where part of the player’s protest is coming from.
However, Kuzma’s comment might make one question what the push to get people to vote is really about. Someone could interpret it as certain players having an agenda to help a single party out. People can truly educate themselves about all of the candidates, and realize there are more candidates to choose from than the ones with the D and R next to their name. However, it still has to be the person’s option on who they want to vote for, or even if they want to vote. They are given the right to vote, but voting is not required by law.
Postponement of Pro Sports Being Used to Encourage People to Vote and Empathize With the Black Community
How can you hear the pain Black people are going through and dismiss it as nothing. How can you hear the pain and respond with anything other than “I stand with you.”
We cannot afford to live in a society that preaches fear. When people go to vote, they need to feel assured that their vote is fair. At this point, it has been assured that citizens do not feel confident in their ability to vote. There are flaws in the voting system, and certain groups are marginalized.
The postponement of pro sports games was sparked by a police officer deciding to shoot a black man seven times in the back. This type of behavior by police officers simply cannot be tolerated, and athletes from all sports have spoken. Try to put yourself in this situation. Should someone have to be shot seven times in the back because they may be holding a knife? Jacob Blake did admit to holding a knife, but does he deserve to be handcuffed to a hospital bed? The answer is no.
The Broncos are not practicing today.
In the words of the great Champ Bailey, “Please listen, and please do not get caught up in how the message is delivered.” pic.twitter.com/qCgCNYtq7G
The reason these protests are happening is that people are not getting equal treatment. Justice is not happening for all right now. It is important that we listen and validate everyone’s concerns with police relations with all communities, especially the African American community. It is important that all of us – athletes, fans, government officials – show the African American community that their lives matter.
Am I Wrighster or am I wrong? NBA protests have flowed into the MLB, MLS, NHL, and WNBA. They are all protesting racial injustice. I love it, but canceling the season would have been the wrong move. College football and the NFL are up next. Are millionaire Pro Athletes like LeBron James, Chris Paul, and others really afraid of the police? Why do they fear for their children when many of them are in private schools and live behind gates.
Big Ten Conference May Play Fall Football
The Big Ten conference is discussing potentially starting the football season after Thanksgiving. It is the right move. Let the SEC, Big XII, and ACC be the crash test dummies to see if football can be played during coronavirus.
Max Kellerman roasts SEC fans
Max Kellerman was right about SEC voters being susceptible to very low-quality information. The facts show that seven of the ten least educated states are in SEC country.
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George Wrighster is a former Pac-12 and veteran NFL tight end. As a television/radio host, opinionist, writer, speaker, and analyst, he is UNAFRAID to speak the truth. Contrary to industry norms he uses, facts, stats, and common sense to win an argument. He has also found success in the business world as an entrepreneur and investor. George is a lifelong learner who loves having conversations that educate and uplift. He has also covered college football, basketball, NFL, NBA, MLB since 2014.
Had this been a normal week, I would start this NBA Bubble recap with an ode to Luka Dončić, who gave one of the greatest performances I’ve seen in years. However, this was no normal week. In fact, this will be a week that will go down in history. The storyline of the week revolves around the strike.
Top Story: The NBA Players Decide To Strike
To quickly summarize what happened, the Milwaukee Bucks decided to not play their game against the Magic. The strike was in response to the situation involving Jacob Blake, an African American man who was shot seven times in the back by police officers. It’s important to note that the incident occurred in Kenosha, Wisconsin, which is about an hour away from where the Bucks play at Fiserv Forum.
Every NBA player is invited to join the meeting in The Bubble at 8 PM to discuss how they'll proceed from today's boycotts, sources tell @ZachLowe_NBA and me.
Before a packed room of teams in a hotel ballroom at Disney, the discussion is centering on whether to continue with the playoffs — or end the season, sources tell ESPN. So far, there seems to be momentum not to play the three playoff games on Thursday, but nothing's decided.
The bombshell from the meeting involved the Lakers and Clippers, who voted to abandon the season. Notably, LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard, the two best players in the bubble, spoke up about not wanting to play.
Sources: Lakers forward LeBron James and Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard both spoke up in the players meeting Wednesday night and were adamant about not playing the rest of the playoffs and they wanted change. The players will have another meeting at 11 am East time Thursday.
Players spoke passionately about voting and police reform, per sources. There's a sense from some that if owners don't come up with something that makes them believe staying will help move these important issues forward, this season is done.
ESPN Sources: Among themes in meeting: NBPA explained financial implications of ending season, including possible lockout next year. Chris Paul on leaving meeting unified; CJ McCollum on needing a plan of action. Doc Rivers on using platform, voting, holding police accountable.
After taking some time to think it over, the players once again met in the morning and decided to restart the league.
Sources: NBA players in meeting today agreed to continue playing this postseason — but want to find new and improved ways to make social justice statements. Players expect games to resume this weekend.
Sources: Players today discussed the sacrifices all of them have made to reach this point in the postseason, and sense of normalcy returning with families entering Disney Campus. Players who voted not to play on Wednesday night understood.
The decision to not play games inside the NBA and WNBA bubbles trickled into the MLB and NHL.
After much discussion, NHL players believe that the best course of action would be to take a step back and not play tonight’s and tomorrow’s games as scheduled.
It’s truly been an unprecedented two days in sports. We are going to look back years from now and remember August 26, the day the players took action. Many former players and coaches such as Chris Webber, Doc Rivers, and Renee Montgomery gave passioned speeches that put a spotlight on social justice. In particular, a line in Webber’s speech is one that has stuck with me since I watched the clip. Webber said, “I don’t know the next steps. I don’t really care what the next steps are because the first steps are to garner attention. And they have everyone’s attention… Don’t listen to these people telling you to not do anything because it’s not gonna end right away. You are starting something for the next generation.”
Whether you agree or disagree with the decision to strike, the fact is the NBA and many athletes have our attention. What happens next? I leave you with an article about Maya Moore, who literally put her athletic career on hold to fight for social justice.
Maya Moore left an all-time great basketball career to fight injustice. https://t.co/2D8ZJiKYOK
