One of the main topics of discussion during this All-Star Weekend was how the younger generation will start to transition into the new faces of the NBA, especially considering how LeBron James is in his 21st year in the league and many other veterans are starting to wind down into retirement.Β
In the latest show ofΒ First Take, the ESPN panel ran a rather interesting debate over the next faces of the NBA. Shannon Sharpe explained why he considers a playerβs relationship status to be an interesting criteria to consider when giving a young superstar the responsibility of leading the pack.
βWhat about relationship status?β the panelist pondered βMagic [Johnson] and [Larry] Bird was married. LeBron was in a relationship with Savannah. How do we look at it? Because when we look at presidential candidates, we look at candidates, we want them to be secure. We want them to be foundational pieces.β
Shannon Sharpe questions whether being in a stable relationship is necessary to be considered the face of the NBA
βMagic and Bird was married. LeBron was in a relationship with Savannah.β
(h/t @awfulannouncing )
β NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 20, 2024
As for the rest of the First Take panel, they were mostly bewildered over the former NFLβs consideration, as some couldnβt even believe he brought it up.Β βIβm not gonna lie, I donβt know what the hell youβre asking,β Stephen A. Smith said.
However, host Molly Qerim took the time to consider Sharpeβs question.Β βI know what youβre saying like the βFirst Lady of Basketball,ββ she contributed. βThey would say Steph Curry and Ayesha Curry, and we know them. The example, the role models. I get what youβre saying.β
Former player JJ Redick paused, gave it a thought, and then explained why he believes a playerβs marital status shouldnβt matter when establishing the new face of the NBA.
βLetβs not act like some of the faces of the league have been perfect with their off-court behavior,β he said. βI donβt necessarily think thatβs a precursor, and youβre obviously using Steph and LeBron in sort of the present sense. By and large, those guys are scandal-free. But letβs not act like the past faces of the league have been perfect.β
Redick indirectly was talking about players like Ja Morant, who definitely has the potential and talent to dominate the league for years…