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An NBA reinvention might just be unfolding in front of us. Once upon a time, the super teams comprising even two or three All-Stars might be fading away in favor of something more organic: team chemistry, the grand concept of youth, and, for some people, “power of friendship.”
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The SportsCenter tweet, in fact, threw the most fuel into the debate, suggesting very strongly that the formation of super teams is not quite the phenomenon it once was. The new formula basically seems to revolve around tight-knit groups of hungry young players who care about defense, ball movement, and – yes – friendship.
There was no lack of so-called immediate and passionate responses. Witty-responses of one user were, “Never forget the OG power of friendship squad,” referring to teams of yore that thrived on chemistry more than star power. Others called it “the cutest shit,” which only shows how much this change has already gone in favor of the fans.
Participation is split. There are even those who assert the super teams will maintain their existence for as long as there are players like LeBron and Jokic. On the contrary, a user said, “Unless your name is LEBRON OR JOKIC,” basically meaning that at the end of the day, elite talent matters. Others said the current Finals-a battle between the Pacers and Thunder, a team built on depth rather than superstar firepower-is exactly what the league needed. Making some noise, a user said, “Real stars are at home right now,” implying the present Finals have no real star power.
That was followed by a quick retort: “‘These teams actually made it to the show’ and the ‘real Stars’ sitting this out.”
Essentially, the conversation veered towards the business side of the NBA. Another fan argued, “Ending the era of super teams and big markets would make the NBA better. Ratings shouldn’t define a championship.” It’s an idea slowly gaining traction, especially since small-market teams like Oklahoma City and Indiana have ascended and proved they can compete without trading big or free agency.
Skeptics chimed. “Power of friendship is getting swept by a super team,” one joked sincerely, referring to previous Finals where star-studded teams crushed less talented but cohesive squads. But even that statement got dismissed when a few reminded everyone that the present Finals teams earned their banners by beating out more “stacked” opponents.
Arguably the best argument came from a fan who said, “The trend is playing good Basketball.” So maybe that’s the bigger takeaway. If best basketball is being played, be it by super talent-laden teams or those with skillful chemistry, Pacers and Thunder are proof ‘how far teamwork, depth and yes friendship’ can take you-maybe they can take you to the Finals.
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It seems evident through the evolution of the League that maybe the new upcoming era in the NBA won’t be defined by Super teams but by teams that play Super basketball! That’s surely a trend worth watching.
