E Da Old Tymer

Let’s face it: the NBA has a significant problem on its hands. Maybe I’m alone in this sentiment, or perhaps not. What I do know is that the NBA I watch today is not the same league I grew up with nearly half a century ago. So, what’s making it tough to be an NBA fan these days? After some reflection, I believe it boils down to four main issues.

The Media Frenzy

First and foremost, the sports media landscape has changed dramatically. Not all sports media is bad, but major franchises seem more interested in tearing down the NBA’s legacy to push unsubstantiated agendas and narratives. When did it become acceptable to diminish the accomplishments of the legends who shaped the game? Outlandish and disrespectful statements shouldn’t qualify as “hot takes.” Once, hot takes were bold predictions grounded in fact or circumstance. But now, claims like “Michael Jordan didn’t have a bag” are just absurd. Unfortunately, this issue isn’t going away anytime soon. Personalities like Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith have turned controversy into profit, making it difficult to change the status quo when money is involved.

The Fanbase Dilemma

Next up is the fanbase. Fans have always been passionate, but today’s NBA fandom has taken a turn for the worse. What used to be simple heckling has evolved into outright disrespect, including racial insults. More fans are being ejected and banned from events for their behavior. It’s never okay to make personal insults or use racial slurs, especially at a sporting event.

Moreover, many fans today lack a deep understanding of the game. Despite the internet making information readily accessible, fans often spread incorrect information about basketball rules and gameplay. Social media doesn’t help either. Many basketball accounts on platforms like Instagram engage in “rage baiting,” posting misleading content to generate interaction. This creates a fanbase that’s not only misinformed but also frustratingly wrong.

The Social Media Shift

If you guessed that social media would be my third reason, you’d be right. Today’s NBA players enjoy benefits from the struggles of their predecessors. In earlier eras, collective bargaining was nonexistent, and contracts weren’t as lucrative. Players had to rely on their skills to attract big-market teams. Social media has changed this dynamic, giving players exposure that wasn’t available before. Teams now have massive followings on social media, reducing the need for traditional television exposure. While this has increased revenue and visibility, it’s also changed how fans consume the game. Five-minute highlight reels on YouTube can’t capture the full context of a 48-minute game.

The Players’ Role

Lastly, and perhaps most concerning, are the players themselves. In the heat of competition, emotions can run high, and rivalries can enhance the game. However, there’s a growing trend of disrespect among players, both past and present. It’s puzzling why some players dismiss the contributions of the greats who came before them. Take Michael Jordan, for example. Despite being widely regarded as the greatest player ever, narratives suggest he played in a weaker era or lacked certain skills. It seems some players are trying to elevate their own careers by downplaying others.

There’s also talk that championships are overrated when discussing great players. Really? Isn’t the point of competing to demonstrate dominance and win? Yet, some players today seem to view basketball merely as a path to wealth. While there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s disheartening to see a lack of competitive drive and love for the game. Until this changes, watching NBA basketball will continue to be a bittersweet experience.

What do you think? Do these issues exist in the NBA? What are some of the problems with today’s game, and what solutions do you propose? Leave a comment and share your thoughts.

Until next time!