Ja Morant was back in the middle of controversy a few weeks ago because he and Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield got into a dispute in which they motioned at each other using imaginary guns. The gesture, commonly used by players after a made three, was looked down upon by the NBA. The league cautioned Hield and Morant against using it in the future.
Morant used it in the next game.
The NBA fined Morant $75,000, sparking debate about whether the penalty was justified. In this week’s one-on-one, contributors Steffen White and Jacob Hypke give their takes on the league’s handling of celebrations.
Yes
By Jacob Hypke
The concept of a player throwing a grenade into the air should not be celebrated. While the average age of an NBA fan is 36, millions of kids watch their favorite players and teams every night. The players seen on screen are role models for fans of all ages. Therefore, they should act accordingly with fewer celebrations that display damaging behavior.
That said, I am in favor of not fining all celebrations. If a player’s celebration seems unsportsmanlike or is carried on for too long, an in-game foul should be the only punishment. Additionally, fans of all ages enjoy these creative celebrations, which they are now replicating. The only celebrations that should be fined are those that advocate for violence or incorporate vulgar profanity.
No
By Steffen White
No, players should not be fined for their celebrations. NBA players and all athletes have the right to express themselves. Should they be responsible with their celebrations? Yes. However, they are professionals; they have earned the right to decide what is appropriate and what isn’t when it comes to celebrations.
Part of what makes sports great is that all athletes are unique, bringing something distinct to their respective sports. Celebrations are a great way to showcase what makes that individual unique. When the NFL instituted a fine for dunking the football after a touchdown, it appalled me, because not only was it an awesome celebration, but it was also the calling card for players like Tony Gonzalez, one of the all-time greats at his position. Overall, let the players have their freedom. They’ve made the big time. Whether or not their celebrations are legal should be the last thing on their minds.
