On a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live, Draymond Green, the four-time NBA champion and host of his own podcast, The Draymond Green Show, made an appearance. Green, known as one of the best and most controversial players in basketball, sat down with Jimmy Kimmel to discuss various intriguing topics.
Kimmel, wasting no time, asked Green about the series between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks. Despite the Celtics being down 0-3 in the series, Green highlighted the different perspectives that both teams have. He pointed out that the Mavericks, facing elimination, can play with nothing to lose and use that mentality to potentially turn the series around. On the other hand, the Celtics are aware of the Mavericks’ desperation and approach the game with caution and a desire to prevent a comeback.
Having been on both sides of the situation, Green expressed that losing in the finals is worse than not making the playoffs at all. He humorously shared that players who make it to the finals and lose, like himself, only receive the same nine-week break as teams that didn’t make it to the finals, yet the focus and expectation on them to improve is immense.
During the interview, the topic shifted to Green’s two suspensions during the season, resulting in him missing 17 games. Kimmel, curious about the counseling that Green had to attend, asked about the experience. Green explained that it was somewhat mandatory, given the laws in America, but he did disclose that he sought advice on how to control his behavior on the court and avoid confrontations with referees. Reflecting on his hot-headedness, Green humorously pondered if he could explode on someone on the sideline instead of referees, only to be reminded by Kimmel that the cameras would capture it, potentially painting a negative image.
The conversation took an interesting turn when Green admitted to being a trash-talker on the basketball court. Growing up in Michigan, he explained that talking trash was an integral part of the game. However, when Green joined the Golden State Warriors, he discovered that his teammates, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, weren’t as enthusiastic about trash-talking. Undeterred, Green insisted that they join in, and from there, he became known as one of the best trash-talkers in the league.
Green shared a memorable story about his attempt to trash-talk Kobe Bryant during his rookie year. He locked up Bryant on defense, celebrated, and confidently exchanged words with him. However, Bryant calmly replied, “Come on, young fella, that ain’t got nothing to do with you,” leaving Green feeling humbled. This experience taught Green a valuable lesson about humility and respecting the game.
The conversation wrapped up with a discussion about Green’s affinity for being booed by fans. Contrary to many athletes who despise such treatment, Green revealed that he loves being booed because it means he’s getting under his opponents’ skin. He expressed that being booed makes him push even harder and fuels his competitive fire.
Green also touched on his close relationship with the late Jerry West, the basketball legend who recently passed away. West provided guidance and support to Green throughout his career, offering both criticism and praise. Green felt honored to be critiqued by someone of West’s stature, emphasizing that losing West was a tremendous loss for the basketball world.
Draymond Green‘s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live was not only entertaining but also provided insights into the life of a professional basketball player. From trash-talking opponents to dealing with suspensions and receiving advice from legends like Jerry West, Green’s journey is undoubtedly filled with both challenges and triumphs. Fans can catch more of Green’s wit and wisdom on his podcast, The Draymond Green Show, available on YouTube and various podcast platforms.
