You might have to look twice to find NBA greats like “James” “Wade” “Garnett” “Pierce” and others on the court next time. Instead, you might find “King James”, “Flash” “KG” and “The Truth” in their place.
The NBA is considering letting players from the Miami Heat and Brooklyn Nets wear nicknames on their jerseys in one of their four matchups this season. (Via ESPN)
"You could see 'King James' instead of James on the back of LeBron's jersey. 'Flash' instead of Wade on the back of Dwyane Wade's jersey. And 'Birdman' on the back of Chris Anderson's jersey." (Via HLN)
"Brooklyn, meantime, might counter with 'The Truth' for Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, the ornery one, might simply be KG." (Via WFOR)
In addition to those, Miami's Ray Allen says he'd go with "Jesus Shuttlesworth" on his jersey after the character he played in the 1998 Spike Lee movie "He Got Game". (Via Sports Illustrated)
But, what about those guys who don’t have well known nicknames? Like, Chris Bosh for example.
“What would be a nickname you’d use for Chris Bosh? Maybe third wheel?
"Pterodactyl? ... "Raaaaa! That scream he always does on the court ... " (Via NBC)
Many are linking this NBA consideration to the XFL days when Rod Smart's nickname, "He Hate Me" became well known. (Via Yahoo!)
"Which coincidentally refers to the jersey Chris Bosh will use referring to all of his teammates." (Via Fox Sports)
Poor Chris. But, why is the NBA even considering this move? ESPN's Mike and Mike say it's all about the money.
“A. This would make them a fortune because they’ll sell a ton of these jerseys. Imagine all the jerseys they’ll sell once LeBron wears one that says King James. But, B. I just think it’s terrific.”
“Yeah, I think it’s a neat thing.”
Ray Allen says he hopes the idea goes through to remind everyone that NBA players are quote "still kids, playing a kids' game."
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