Celebrations in sports after scoring can range from exuberant displays of emotion to subtle nods of acknowledgment. However, there are instances when players like Patrick Beverley, whose celebrations can go beyond the usual, sparking discussions and debates among fans and analysts.
The Sixers guard has recently made the controversial ‘too small’ celebration in a preseason fixture against the Boston Celtics. The ‘too small’ gesture has time and again been the center of fan attention and Beverley’s celebration has not been taken kindly by the NBA community either.
What is NBA’s ‘Too small’ celebration? Origin explained
Trash talk has always been an integral part of sports, but one demeaning sign that remains a standout in the NBA: “Too small.” This infamous taunt, frequently used by players, carries a potent mix of disrespect and psychological warfare.
The NBA has historically favored taller athletes, with towering figures dominating the game. However, a significant number of shorter players have defied these expectations and excelled in the NBA. As a result, the “too small” taunt emerged as a way to diminish their achievements, questioning their ability to compete against larger opponents. Yet, delving deeper into NBA history, we find that the taunt is not limited to height alone.
Many players who have faced this taunt have proven their worth through exceptional skills, court vision, endurance, and determination. Players like Allen Iverson, Chris Paul, and Isaiah Thomas have shown that size is not the sole determinant of success in professional basketball. Moreover, their ability to adapt and strategize becomes their secret weapon, exploiting weaknesses and finding ingenious ways to score and the celebration allows for plenty of personal interpretation on each player’s part.
Although the origin is still in question, Russel Westbrook brought out a variation of the taunt in 2018, one of them similar to the “Too small” celebration.
And now with players like Patrick Beverley, who has taken the celebrations to the next level, the entertainment doesn’t seem to have an end in the NBA making it one of the most disrespectful signs of celebrations.
Watch: Patrick Beverley hits ‘too small’ celebration after scoring on Jaylen Brown
In a recent matchup between the Boston Celtics and the Philadelphia 76ers, fans witnessed an intense showdown. The game concluded with the Celtics falling short, experiencing a disappointing 114-106 loss. However, amidst the defeat, there was a standout moment that had everyone talking.
Patrick Beverley stole the spotlight during a crucial play against Jaylen Brown. After managing to score a remarkable layup, Beverley couldn’t contain his excitement. He promptly unleashed the infamous ‘too small’ celebration, further igniting the rivalry on the court.
The celebration quickly caught the attention of the fans and the media alike. Many deemed it a bold move, while others saw it as a playful jab at Brown’s height. Regardless, it added another layer of intensity to the game. While fans have pointed at it as just a pre-season fixture, fans are equally excited for their second meetup in the upcoming season, especially a matchup between Patrick Beverley and Jaylen Brown.
As the Boston Celtics aim to bounce back from this defeat, it remains to be seen how this rivalry will develop further in future matchups. As for the fans, these moments not only entertain them but also give players an extra push to elevate their performance.
