Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas has shared his thoughts on who could become the face of the NBA once LeBron James retires. However, Arenas believes that big men like Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, and Giannis Antetokounmpo will never be the face of the NBA because the average person cannot easily identify with them. He argues that kids resonate more with players like Stephen Curry, known for his shooting, or Ja Morant, who possesses extraordinary athleticism despite his smaller stature.
“Like Greek, Jokic, and Embiid they’re never gonna be the face because the average person cannot identify with them. The average kid identifies with one man and one man only, that’s Ja Morant.”
“The problem is Ja Morant is supposed to be there, but Ant-Man might get it…He’s funny; he can hold his own. I wouldn’t be mad if the league just said we are going to run with him because we can’t give it to Ja because of everything.”
“But if Ja comes out averaging 30 and then next year 30, 32, the world just automatically going to gravitate.” (5:00)
Arenas acknowledges that Morant is expected to be a prominent figure in the league, but he introduces the possibility of Anthony Edwards, also known as “Ant-Man,” becoming the face of the NBA. According to Arenas, Edwards has a likable personality, is humorous, and has the potential to captivate fans. He suggests that if Morant doesn’t solidify his position, Edwards could take over.
Ja Morant is currently serving a 25-game suspension for off-court incidents, and his return is anticipated in the Grizzlies’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Arenas highlights that if Morant performs exceptionally well, averaging high points, he could naturally draw attention and become a significant figure in the league.
However, if Morant struggles to regain his previous form, Arenas suggests that Anthony Edwards might surpass him in the race to become the next face of the NBA. Edwards, known for his skill on the court and charismatic personality, could fill the void left by LeBron James and become the league’s focal point.
The competition between Morant and Edwards adds intrigue to the narrative of who will lead the NBA in the post-LeBron era, with each player having their unique strengths and qualities that could resonate with fans.
Ja Morant Has A Long Way To Become The Face Of The League
While Ja Morant possesses undeniable talent and athleticism, the path to becoming the face of the NBA is fraught with challenges that he must overcome. The recent 25-game suspension due to off-court incidents has cast a shadow over Morant’s image, associating him with a perceived thugness, a characterization that the NBA does not favor.
To secure his position as a league figurehead, Morant must actively distance himself from this image and demonstrate his commitment to professionalism on and off the court.
Furthermore, winning titles is an essential criterion for any player aspiring to be the face of the league. Morant needs to lead his team to success and showcase his ability to dominate at the highest level. While a championship is significant, making a serious MVP run is equally crucial. The NBA often anoints players who not only excel individually but also impact the game in a way that sets them apart.
Adding to the challenge, LeBron James and Stephen Curry, two of the league’s biggest stars, continue to maintain their dominance. Morant must patiently wait for his turn to take the reins from these iconic players, who are likely to be the faces of the league for another 3-4 years. During this time, Morant must elevate his game to a level that not only matches but surpasses the impact of LeBron and Curry.
In essence, Ja Morant faces a multifaceted journey to become the face of the NBA. Addressing image concerns, achieving individual accolades, and navigating the prolonged prime of current stars are all essential components that Morant must successfully navigate to ascend to the coveted position of being the league’s preeminent figure.
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