Josh Giddey has undoubtedly caught a lot of headlines in the past month of 2023, involving himself in a minor controversy that continues to linger. The attention surrounding him seems relentless, as the media and fans can’t seem to let go of the situation. However, ESPN faced the wrath of passionate fans recently when they abruptly changed the subject during an interview.
The incident occurred when NBA player Patrick Beverley sought actor Kevin Hart’s opinion on the ongoing Giddey saga. Fans, eagerly awaiting a discussion on the matter, were left infuriated as the conversation shifted entirely to a different topic. As social media exploded with backlash, supporters criticized ESPN for sidestepping the issue and diverting attention away from Giddey’s predicament.
Pat Bev asks Kevin Hart of Josh Giddey situation
Fans of ESPN are expressing their disappointment with the network for abruptly changing the subject during a recent interview with Patrick Beverley. The interview, conducted by American actor-comedian Kevin Hart, took an unexpected turn when Beverley asked Hart for his opinion on the Josh Giddey situation.
Hart was invited to provide entertainment for NBA fans during the In-Season Tournament Finals with his show, “Unplugged,” which was meant to be lighthearted and funny. Viewers were thoroughly enjoying the comical banter between the panel members until Beverley brought up the controversial topic.
When Beverley asked Hart about his thoughts on the Josh Giddey situation, things became awkward. Pat Bev asked, “I got a daughter and I like to call myself a girl dad. What you think about the Josh Giddey situation?”
Trying to dodge the question, Hart redirected it to the other panel members saying, “Fellas, y’all want to answer that?”, hoping they would answer instead. However, as the conversation unfolded, it became clear that Hart was hesitant to give his opinions due to his status as a “brand.”
In the end, Hart promised to share his honest thoughts with Beverley privately via text, stating, “I’m a brand, Pat, and you know, being a brand, I’ll text you and give you my real thoughts.”
Fans are now expressing their frustration with ESPN for changing the subject and not allowing Hart to address the controversial topic during the live interview. More so they are more annoyed by the comparison between Giddey and Morant and how both their cases were handled differently.
Fans draw Ja Morant comparison in media’s Josh Giddey treatment
In recent media reports, basketball fans have drawn comparisons between the treatment of NBA stars Ja Morant and Josh Giddey.
Ja Morant, the talented player from the Memphis Grizzlies, has been the subject of intense scrutiny and criticism due to his involvement in an off-court gun-related incident. He is facing a harsh 25-game suspension for his actions, set to cast a shadow over his performance in the upcoming 2023-24 season.
On the other hand, fans have noted with concern that Josh Giddey, a rising star playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has not faced any suspension despite allegations of a sexual encounter with a minor.
The NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, has indirectly addressed the situation, expressing his thoughts on the ongoing scandal involving Giddey. Silver emphasized that in most cases, the league does not suspend players based solely on allegations, particularly when a criminal investigation is ongoing.
Fans found this discrepancy in treatment concerning and are questioning the fairness of the decisions made. They are frustrated that Ja Morant’s suspension was handed down swiftly, while the league appears to be taking a comparatively lenient stance in the case of Josh Giddey, allowing him to continue playing matches. This unequal treatment has sparked anger and debate within the basketball community.
While the disparity between the suspension of Ja Morant and the absence of action against Josh Giddey has led to widespread criticism, fans eagerly await further developments, increasing pressure to address the concerns surrounding Josh Giddey’s ongoing involvement in matches.
