A wave of controversies involving young NBA players prompts reflections on the league's responsibility in educating emerging talents about fame, behavior, and professionalism.
The 2021 NBA Draft heralded the arrival of some of the most promising young talents in the league.
However, within just one year, five players from this draft class found themselves entangled in controversies that not only shook their budding careers but also brought unwanted attention to the teams that drafted them.
Jalen Green Jalen Green, the second overall pick of the 2021 NBA draft by the Houston Rockets, found himself in the midst of controversy during the offseason.
Kai Jones Kai Jones, the third-year center for the Charlotte Hornets, has recently become embroiled in a series of controversies, leading to his indefinite absence from the team and eventual waiver.
James Bouknight James Bouknight, the Charlotte Hornets guard, has faced a series of legal and professional challenges that significantly impacted his career trajectory
Joshua Primo Joshua Primo, the 20-year-old guard who was selected as the 12th pick in the 2021 NBA draft by the San Antonio Spurs, has faced a tumultuous journey in the league.
Josh Giddey Giddey has not publicly commented on the controversy, and the NBA has not yet taken any action against him.