February 14th 2025.
This year's NBA All-Star Game has made its way to the Bay Area, and Complex Magazine seized the opportunity to sit down with former NBA player and Oakland native, Gary Payton. Payton, who now serves as the head coach for the College of Alameda's basketball team, has returned to his roots in the Bay Area. Complex Editor-in-Chief Aria Hughes sat down with the NBA Hall of Famer on February 13th for their "Please Explain" series, which aims to bring clarity to internet controversies. During their conversation, Payton touched on a variety of topics, including his upbringing in Oakland, his current coaching position, the evolution of the NBA, and more.
One common complaint about recent NBA All-Star Games is that the friendly relationships between opposing players have taken away from the competitive nature of the event. Some attribute this to the games being "soft," compared to the fierce competition during Payton's prime years when players were eager to show off their skills in front of the best in the league.
To this, Payton asked, "Has the NBA gotten too soft? Yes. Did you watch my era?!" He emphasized that in his playing days, the animosity between teams was real and may have been toned down for the All-Star Weekend.
"We didn't like anyone during the season," he recalled. "The only time we were together was at the All-Star Game. But even then, on the last day, I would tell my opponents, 'I'll be beating your ass next time I see you.'"
Payton also touched on the importance of mental health, particularly for men who face a lot of pressure in today's society. He stressed the importance of self-care and challenged the stereotype that it's not okay for men to show emotion. The event was sponsored by Soluna, a program dedicated to raising awareness about mental health resources for young adults.
But Payton couldn't resist taking a playful jab at one of the players known for his trash-talking ways, Kevin Durant, who will be representing the Phoenix Suns at the All-Star Game on February 16th.
"Kevin is like my young guy," Payton joked. "We talk trash to each other, but it's all in good fun. I'll see him tomorrow. He's an OG now, still in the game, and that's great for him."
In related news, Payton recently partnered with Green Label Rx to launch his own cannabis brand, "Greater Purpose." It's clear that Payton is still making an impact in the NBA community, both on and off the court.
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