The NBA is one of the most watched and followed sports leagues around the globe, if not the most. The NBA gained popularity when Michael Jordan put the NBA on the map back in the 1990s. The world went into a frenzy and basketball spread outside of the United States. Being the legend and icon Jordan is, he became a role model for people around the world. Another thing gaining popularity is online casinos like the swiss online casino. Visit today and enjoy entertainment from the comfort of your own home.
Following the Jordan Era, upcoming NBA players continued his legacy while cementing their own at the same time. Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’ Neal and Lebron James are few examples who have defined black excellence and continue to do so. This article will list 5 current players who are defining black excellence and carrying the torch passed onto them.
- Giannis Antetekoumpo:
Drafted as 15th overall in the first round of 2013 NBA drafts, Giannis was a skinny kid from Greece. Coming from the slums of Greece, Giannis was poor and shared a pair of sneakers with his brother Thanasis Antetekoumpo to play basketball. He had a deep love for the game of basketball and his family, which fueled his motivation.
Starting as a prospect, Giannis quickly rose to fame as a defensive and offensive powerhouse. His consistent hard work and grit finally led him to his first MVP title in 2018, and another in the following year. In fact, he is the only player in NBA history to win MVP and DPOY titles together in consecutive years. He has inspired many around the world, and is the living embodiment of hardwork turned to success. At the same time he is humble, and works to create opportunities for the underprivileged so they can follow their dreams.
- Ja Morant:
Drafted as second overall behind top recruit Zion Williamson, Ja Morant’s story to greatness is one to hear. Ja went unrated when he graduated high school, as he was short and did not possess the physicality to play at college level. As a result, he failed to be even considered for a top tier university scholarship. Ja used his frustration to his advantage, and desperately looked for a scholarship. He succeeded when Murray State University agreed to recruit him.
Ja Morant availed the chance fully, and the rest is history. After making it into the league, Ja became the Rookie of the Year, beating Zion to the top spot. He followed up his amazing performances and won the most improved player last year. Ja has a tattoo on his arm that says “Beneath No One”, and refers to the people who overlooked him. Ja is paving a new way for black excellence.
- Stephen Curry:
Stephen, or also known as Chef Curry, completely changed the way basketball is played. A skinny 6’3 guard would probably be asked by the coach to hit the weight room. But steph used his stature to his disposal, developing an insane range from deep and lightning quick speed. Steph took the world by storm after he won his first MVP title and championship in 2015 and continues to amaze the world to this day. The 2 time MVP and 4 time NBA champion is a leader and embodies black excellence.
Curry is an inspiration to all young guys out there who are not gifted physically. Curry’s career is a testament that hard work and developing new strengths is the alternative to focusing and dreading your weaknesses. Curry gives back to the community by coaching young and short players at basketball camps so they can develop their game to match the physicality of the NBA.
Curry’s abilities have been discounted by many analysts, who say that he simply has an All-Star team around him. However, Steph defied all criticism last year, when he led an unpredictable Warriors roster to the NBA title, and claimed the finals MVP. Steph kept his head down and did not let the negativity get to him, ultimately defying all critics and critiques.