Why does Draymond Green think that "basketball fans are terrible"?
The Golden State star criticized the change in attitude towards Westbrook: "For years you said he destroys teams, and now you miss him."
Draymond Green attacked NBA fans following the announcement of Russell Westbrook's retirement, claiming that many of them suddenly began to appreciate the former star after years of criticizing him.
"In a way, basketball fans are terrible, — said the Golden State player on his podcast. — By the way, I'm a basketball fan too, so you can put me in that category. But basketball fans are terrible."
Green was referring primarily to the criticism Westbrook received in the latter part of his career, including claims regarding his shooting, his style of play, and his impact on the teams he played for. "For the last 8 to 10 years, all this guy heard was how bad he is, how he doesn't shoot well, how he stat-pads, and how he destroys teams," Green said.
"And when you're in this game and all you see and all you hear is those things, you just keep going. You fight through it, because that's who we are and that's what we do. But damn, it's annoying and it bothers you. Make no mistake about that."
Green also mentioned the nickname "Westbrick" that was given to Westbrook during his tougher times, when he was heavily criticized for his shooting percentages. "'Westbrick' and all those things you said about him, — said the veteran Golden State star. — And the moment he retires, suddenly: 'Wow, you did Russ wrong. You can't tell me he couldn't have been on a team. Wow, the way he played the game. We'll miss him and he's no longer in the NBA.' All those nice things."
The forward wondered why Westbrook didn't receive the same appreciation while he was still an active player. "Why can't we feel that way while he's still playing?" he wondered.
Westbrook announced his retirement from the NBA yesterday after 18 seasons. His career included winning an MVP award, nine All-Star appearances, and an NBA record of 209 triple-doubles.
