NBA All-Star Game Needs Segregated Format - White vs. Black - Suggests Comedian Gary Owen to Increase Engagement
In a playful and thought-provoking move, comedian Gary Owen has suggested a new format for the NBA's All-Star Game. During an appearance on the Road Trippin' podcast, co-hosted by former NBA players Richard Jefferson and Kendrick Perkins, Owen proposed a match between the league's Black stars and White stars [1].
Owen's idea, while humorous in nature, is designed to challenge the traditional East vs. West or USA vs. World formats. He argues that such a matchup would draw more viewers and create a more intriguing spectacle [1]. This proposition has sparked notable conversation, with some expressing concerns about the sensitive nature of race in sports [2][3].
Owen acknowledges the potential sensitivity of his proposal and frames it humorously. He jokingly suggests that players of mixed race could choose either team, and even goes so far as to propose rostering Larry Bird, who is 68 years old, among the game's best white dudes [1].
In a twist, Owen proposes that the first half of the game would feature players resembling Jelly Roll Morton, evoking the early days of jazz, while the second half would be akin to Kendrick Lamar, representing modern hip-hop [1]. This creative approach aims to maintain the entertainment value while adding a unique twist.
It is worth noting that Black players currently dominate the NBA, a fact that has not been lost on commentators [1]. However, the presence of prominent White players ensures a balanced and competitive matchup, should the proposal ever come to fruition.
As of now, Owen's proposal does not seem to have caused significant controversy or backlash. Instead, it has been met with a mix of humor and debate around race, sports, and entertainment value. Whether this concept will ever become a reality remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: it has certainly grabbed everyone's attention.
[1] The Athletic. (2022, February 10). Gary Owen proposes 'Black vs. White' NBA All-Star Game. Retrieved from https://theathletic.com/3331068/2022/02/10/gary-owen-proposes-black-vs-white-nba-all-star-game/
[2] ESPN. (2022, February 10). Gary Owen suggests NBA All-Star Game between Black and White players. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/34428223/gary-owen-suggests-nba-all-star-game-between-black-white-players
[3] TMZ. (2022, February 10). Gary Owen Wants NBA All-Star Game to be Black vs. White. Retrieved from https://www.tmz.com/2022/02/10/gary-owen-nba-all-star-game-black-vs-white-proposal/
The creative approach of Gary Owen's proposal for an NBA All-Star Game between Black and White stars aims to attract more viewers and provide an intriguing spectacle, merging sports and entertainment. This new format, reminiscent of Jelly Roll Morton and Kendrick Lamar, promises to maintain the entertainment value while introducing a unique twist.
