Get ready for a different spin on LaVar Ball’s outspoken demeanor.
Plenty of people have criticized his bravado—particularly his serial sentiments on how his son, Los Angeles Lakers rookie Lonzo Ball, is already a star and already better than incumbent superstars such as Stephen Curry. Washington Wizards head coach Scott Brooks is not one of these people.
On the contrary, he sees more than a few silver linings in LaVar’s behavior, per the Washington Post‘s Candace Buckner:
#Wizards coach Scott Brooks with a very strong and personal take on LaVar Ball.
To Brooks, all he sees is a pops proud of his boy. pic.twitter.com/otMsBlCimY
— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) October 24, 2017
This is, honestly, the most thoughtful take on LaVar that I’ve read. And not to get too personal or anything, but as someone who grew up without a father, I can understand Brooks’ stance.
Yes, we hammer LaVar for saddling Lonzo with too many responsibilities and expectations too soon. But we’re able to debate his approach to promoting his son because he’s in Lonzo’s life, and has been in Lonzo’s life, at all. That has to count for something.
At the same time, this doesn’t inoculate LaVar against all criticism. His takes are over the top, no matter how many good intentions they might include. And if I were Lonzo, I’d politely ask him to chillax with them. But I’m not Lonzo. You’re not Lonzo. He’s been asked countless times about his Dad’s remarks, and he hasn’t once communicated frustration. He’s tried distancing himself from them, and that should be enough. These two are separate individuals, after all. We should be able to recognize that.
Regardless of where you land on the LaVar-Lonzo stuff, though, you have to appreciate the fresh perspective Brooks delivers on the matter.
