Celebrating Dadness: NBA Father’s Day Extravaganza

What day holds the most significance for NBA employees?

The atmosphere on opening night is always buzzing with energy. While Christmas Day is a fan favorite and a big day for television networks, it’s just another workday for those in the NBA. Game 7 of the NBA Finals is a monumental moment, but it’s rare and doesn’t impact everyone involved.
For many, Father’s Day holds special significance. The relationship between fathers and sons within the league is widespread, with connections found on almost every team and in various aspects of the franchises. Working in the NBA is high-profile, potentially lucrative, and sometimes a lot of fun. It seems that the love for the game is contagious, with many sons following in their dad’s footsteps to work in the business.
The recently concluded Finals showcased this connection, with deep father-son ties evident on both the champion Golden State Warriors and the runner-up Boston Celtics.

In the series, there were six players whose fathers were former NBA players. From the Warriors, there were Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Gary Payton II, and Andrew Wiggins. On the Celtics, there were Al Horford and Luke Kornet.
Al Horford expressed gratitude for having his father around during the games, appreciating his basketball knowledge. Throughout the series, former players were often seen on the floor, including fathers occasionally teasing their sons.
This family dynamic extends beyond players, with individuals like Steve Kerr’s son Nick, who coaches the Santa Cruz Warriors. Several other team personnel, including Kurt and Kent Lacob, Mike Dunleavy Jr., Larry Harris, and Jonnie West, also have basketball legacies in their families.
The trend continues across the league, with many current players, coaches, and staff having family connections to the NBA. Additionally, owners often involve their children in the family business, transitioning leadership roles to the next generation.
The influence of family in the NBA doesn’t end with fathers; current players like Jayson Tatum also involve their children in the game. LeBron James aims to have his son follow in his footsteps and join the NBA, potentially making history as a father-son duo on the same court.
After the Warriors’ victory in Game 6, Draymond Green celebrated with his children on stage, emphasizing the importance of sharing these special moments with loved ones. As players and families alike create lasting memories, the impact of family ties in the NBA is evident, shaping legacies for generations to come.