Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia recently shared his thoughts on two hot topics in the NBA: the All-Star weekend and the controversial practice of tanking for better draft picks. Speaking with Pat McAfee, Ishbia didn't hold back on his views about tanking, calling it "an embarrassment" and a "loser mentality."
Ishbia emphasized that tanking undermines the competitive spirit of the game. "Show me someone who wants to lose, and I’ll show you a loser," he stated.
He argued that while the draft system rewards losing teams with better picks, deliberately losing games is detrimental to the league's integrity. Ishbia is optimistic, though, believing NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is aware of the issue and committed to addressing it.
He highlighted the example of the Oklahoma City Thunder, noting that most of their players were drafted later, with Chet Holmgren being the exception. Ishbia praised their team-building strategy, suggesting that success doesn’t require top draft picks. He criticized the current incentive structure that rewards losing and expressed confidence that change is on the horizon.
As the Suns prepare to host the next All-Star game, Ishbia also announced a $1 million donation for the winners of the Dunk and Three-Point Contests. This move is aimed at boosting competition and excitement during the All-Star weekend, potentially motivating both role players and stars to showcase their talents.
Historically, the Dunk Contest has been a platform for players like Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine to display their athletic prowess. Ishbia hopes the added financial incentive will elevate the event further, encouraging more participation from top-tier players.
The question remains: will this financial boost inspire players to up their game for the Dunk Contest, and will it entice stars to take part despite the risks? Share your thoughts in the comments.