In a recent episode of “The Draymond Green Show,” Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green opened up about an emotional exchange with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, which played a pivotal role in dissuading him from retiring. This candid revelation, shared in a podcast clip by Volume Sports and reported by ESPN, offers a glimpse into the personal struggles and the supportive environment within the NBA.
Green’s contemplation of retirement followed an incident on December 12, where he struck Phoenix center Jusuf Nurkic in the face, leading to his indefinite suspension from the league. During this challenging period, Green disclosed to Silver his overwhelming feelings and intention to retire. Follow your favourite NBA team with attractive basketball betting odds from Nextbet.
“I told him, ‘Adam this is too much for me. … This is too much. It’s all becoming too much for me — and I’m going to retire,'” Green recounted. In response, Silver advised against making such a hasty decision, leading to a conversation that Green described as “long, great” and “very helpful.”
Expressing gratitude for Silver’s approach, Green praised the NBA Commissioner for his player-centric attitude. “Very thankful to play in a league with a commissioner like Adam who’s more about helping you than hurting you; helping you than punishing you. He’s more about the players,” Green said.
This incident wasn’t Green’s first altercation this season that led to a suspension. Previously, on November 14, he was suspended for five games after a physical altercation with Minnesota’s Rudy Gobert. Following these incidents and a month of counseling, Green was reinstated by the NBA on Saturday. He has since resumed training with the Warriors, with a return to play expected in about a week. The counseling sessions are set to continue even as he returns to the court.
The Warriors, currently positioned 11th in the Western Conference with a 17-19 record, eagerly await Green’s return. His season averages of 9.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists over 15 games highlight his value to the team. Green, in the first season of a four-year, $100 million contract, faces financial repercussions for each game missed due to suspension.
This personal account from Green underscores the mental and emotional challenges athletes face and the crucial role of supportive figures like Silver in navigating these difficulties. It also highlights the NBA’s commitment to its players’ well-being, both on and off the court. As Green prepares for his comeback, the Warriors hope to see an uplift in their performance with his return. Get the latest updates from the world of basketball only on Nextbet Sports.
