For most young hoopers the ultimate goal is to make it to the NBA. While, the chances are slim it’s still a dream that most hold near and dear to their heart. But, there’s a catch in this new era of elite hoops and NIL.
Talent alone use to be enough to get a player a shot at the big leagues, but that’s no longer the case as it now takes money and plenty of resources to have a chance at doing so. Making it hard for many that may have the talent to do so. The financial investment that it takes for aspiring players can reach the tens of thousands of dollars.
Mariah Rose Says Today’s NBA Players From Suburbs Lack Grit & Hunger
Former NBA player and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose’s daughter Mariah Rose, an analyst in her own right who goes by @RoseTheArtist on X, tweeted the following about this very topic.
“It cost alot of money for a kid to make it to the NBA. This a new era. Just being a good player and having talent ain’t enough. You gotta have that money behind you.”
She also said that players have seemingly lost the hunger from a young age to be dogs.
“The reason the NBA is watered down is because most those kids are from the suburbs now. They ain’t hungry like players used to be. They didn’t grow up in poverty fighting to get out. They grew up comfortable. That hunger is GONE.”
While she was quick to say her comments are solely her opinion.
“Everything that I tweet is from MY perspective, you don’t have to agree with,” she added.
It quickly drew a rise out of basketball fans alike.
Fans Chime In On Topic
“One of the odd times I see your posts and agree with you lol. These players grow up and have access to so much money before even making it to the league they don’t even care no more or work as hard,” a fan said.
“You’re absolutely right. The Balll Bros. are a prime example, highly talented but no fire, no thirst. They play well, despite injuries but “full out, full court”? Nahh… I’ve seen it at the base level, in open gym runs, AAU teams, especially at the grammar school level. No slapping the floor on D, no shell drill, no plays for half court offense, just run and gun. The hunger is gone and everyone is mostly blasé blasé,” another responded.
“Fact check her. She is totally wrong. Such a dumb tweet,” one critic countered.
“You’re absolutely wrong. If you’re good enough there will always be people willing to support you. If you’re an asshole or bad person or don’t give a f-ck then yes, you’re all on your own but still don’t need to be rich to succeed,” one observer quipped.
“Rubbish. If you can play the scouts will find you,” another fan spewed.
Pathway To League Can Be Political, Extensive And Expensive
The time and price to develop into an NBA player can be extensive and expensive. It takes plenty of dedication and desire which includes practice and workout sessions daily. The money aspect of it includes elite training and coaching, AAU basketball and club exposure, travel costs, lifestyle and equipment needed. The cost of that type of exposure is definitely a sticking point for many players who aspire to be a pro.
