US sprinter Noah Lyles recently shared a take about how NBA teams call themselves “world champions” after winning the Finals and it’s not sitting well with the players.
Numerous players from around the league went to social media and shared their reactions to Lyles’ take.
While talking with media members, Noah Lyles took a stance as it apparently bothers him that NBA players call themselves “world champions.” It’s caused quite a stir on social media, as it’s created mixed reviews amongst the public.
Here’s what Lyles said that has NBA players bothered.
"I love the U.S… but that ain't the world!" ❌
Noah Lyles throws shade at the NBA's 'world champions' 🏀👀 pic.twitter.com/BRCJagckcK
— Eurosport (@eurosport) August 27, 2023
It kind of comes off like he’s practicing a stand-up routine, but it’s easy to agree and disagree with Lyles here.
From a technical standpoint, the NBA is a league comprised of teams within the United States, with one team playing in Toronto, Canada. On the other hand, there are numerous players from around the world competing in the NBA.
Additionally, it’s the most competitive basketball league in the world. No other team outside of the NBA would really have a chance against the 2023 Denver Nuggets who just won the NBA Finals.
Players across the league tend to side with the latter. So, guys like Kevin Durant, Draymond Green, Devin Booker, and many more made sure to voice their opinion on Noah Lyles’ take.
American sprinter Noah Lyles doesn't care for how the NBA and other U.S. sports leagues refer to its winners as "world champions."
Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and others responded in the comments 👀 pic.twitter.com/diGGG2Azjo
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 28, 2023
Even Damian Lillard was in disbelief.
Sprinter Noah Lyles had some interesting things to say on NBA Champions 😅#NBA #NoahLyles #KevinDurant #DamianLillard pic.twitter.com/xr85bZiJ0k
— Sportskeeda Basketball (@Basketball_SK) August 28, 2023
Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro couldn’t believe his ears either.
the nba is the best league in the world that’s why the champs are “world champs” 🤦🏻♂️ https://t.co/vg21oQUSrW
— Tyler Herro (@raf_tyler) August 27, 2023
At the end of the day, it’s kind of funny seeing so many NBA stars have the same reaction to Noah Lyles’ comments.
I have a feeling they might call themselves “world champions” even more than usual.