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Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker was spotted in the crowd, cheering as Team USA track sensation Noah Lyles clinched the Gold medal in a nail-biting finish yesterday. Post-race, Booker had some thoughts to share with The Athletic regarding Lyles' infamous remarks from last summer.
Lyles had stirred the pot by asserting that NBA champions shouldn't be dubbed "world champions," a title traditionally bestowed upon the basketball season's top team. His statement sparked a fiery debate among sports elites.
Booker, along with NBA heavyweights Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard, stood in firm opposition to Lyles' view. On the other hand, Giannis Antetokounmpo backed Lyles, suggesting championship titles should remain league-specific.
"I still don't agree with the comment," Booker remarked after witnessing Lyles' victorious 100m sprint. "The NBA hosts the best talent globally. As an Olympic gold medalist myself, I believe securing an NBA championship is one of the toughest feats."
Booker defends NBA's elite status amid Lyles controversy and Olympic aspirations
The crux of the argument lies in the sheer talent disparity between Team USA and international squads, highlighting the arduous journey to an NBA title. Booker reflected on the context of Lyles' comments, saying, "The statement was made. But how it was said - it felt like something he'd been holding onto for a while."
Despite the backlash, Lyles has amassed a considerable following, holding his ground amid the controversy. "He's maintained his stance and earned his moment. Congrats to him," Booker conceded.
Back in 2021, Booker was a mere two wins away from an NBA title before leading the U.S. to Olympic gold, ranking as perhaps the fifth or sixth top player on that squad. Since then, despite stellar individual performances and solid rosters, Booker has struggled to push past the NBA's second round.
The immense talent within the NBA far outstrips the global competition, with even the league's lower-tier teams likely overpowering international champions. Booker emphasized the daunting challenge of an NBA championship in light of this reality.
Now, Booker faces the dual task of aiming for another Olympic Gold for the U.S. and driving the Suns to their first-ever NBA title in the 2024-25 season. The journey to prove their "world champion" status continues.