The NBA is filled with multiple storylines every single season ranging from the feel-good stories like Kevin Durant and LeBron James’ uniqueness to Royce White’s douchiness. Narratives are as important to the league as the game itself.
An individual can become emotionally invested at a higher rate when a narrative presents itself. It can be anything from a comeback performance to a player making a historical emergence.
Narratives matter.
Lin-Sanity. King James. The Decision. DwightMare.
Just a few recent narratives, but they stir a specific and intense emotion in you. Good or bad. Right or wrong. Positive or negative.
Narratives matter.
As much as we love to cheer on a hero – think Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder – people also love to hate a villain.
Case in point was during the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets game Sunday evening where the already less than likeable Russell Westbrook blocked Rocky The Mascot’s shot; a halfcourt shot that’s always attempted during the fourth quarter which if made earns the crowd Qdoba queso.
As a sidenote, Denver fans are enthralled over Rocky and he’s easily one of the most recognizable parts of the Nuggets franchise, especially to the under 13 sector. Obviously, the crowd at the Pepsi Center and at home were pissed and spent the remaining part of the game booing Westbrook, which just fueled him.
Many were hurling insults at him via twitter, and rightfully so, I mean who blocks a mascot’s halfcourt shot? While it was a dick move, I kinda liked it.
That’s right, I thought it was fantastic Russell Westbrook cemented himself further on Nuggets’ fans shit list; after all, the league is just better, and entertaining, with asshole moves like this.
Even though many won’t admit it, we love hating players. It’s fun to hurl insults and try to solve why said player isn’t conforming to our standards; ethical, moral, and professional.
It’s great to watch and it’s great to hear “You blocked Rocky’s shot. You’re such a loser. I want you to die.”
Think about it.
It’s hilarious!!!
I missed this specific occasion, but sent the video to a few kids, including my own, and 80% of the time the responses were like this:
“What a meanie. But it’s funny. Is that allowed?”
Reactions have been fabulous which indicates how we love and want to have a player to hate.
Russell Westbrook is the perfect person to resemble a villain; he absolutely feeds off of the negative energy, he’s fearless, and doesn’t have one ounce of decency when it comes to opposing crowds.
He’s brilliant.
Russell Westbrook: player most likely to piss you off.
You’re welcome.
