A few days ago I got a call from a media member working on a story on how the NBA could recover from a finals that had two smaller market teams and did not have Kevin Durant or LeBron James in it. I went through all the same things people who parachute in looking for a spin they might not understand look for…ratings are a small sample of measurement, the time of year is different, the NBA has “issues” many other mature brands, and almost all leagues, would love to have. All is going to be fine.
And then there is Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Now few outside of the great State of Wisconsin probably were ready for the capper that the Bucks put on Game Six this year of the NBA Finals, as we ended up hearing about movies and storybooks and the American Dream, and its all true and what we needed, but there is another element to Giannis that can’t be overlooked.
It is Joy. And it doesn’t happen with everyone in celebration. Many times the pressure brings relief and overwhelming emotions, not just joy. On Monday night, we saw joy.
It’s the same in the business we are in, or probably I would hope, in any profession, or in any relationship. When you are in it for so long, you get lost in the weeds and forget how much fun things can be, or how much joy an industry like sports and entertainment can bring to others.
I wrote this once before a few years ago, but my old friend and longtime coach Brendan Suhr always said the same thing, and was surprised at how little some of the greatest professional athletes appeared to enjoy what they were doing. No matter how driven you are, you should be able to convey the good to others. I have never been known for being the most outwardly happy of people, but I am convinced that a smile and more importantly, positive passion and enthusiasm are invaluable, whether you are a third grade teacher or Aaron Judge. There is too much sadness in the world, if you love what you do convey that publicly.
Often times people may seek you out for career advice or some counsel which has nothing to do with the day to day duties of work. Some are young people starting out, others are in the midst of career change or are going through some unusual episodes, and sadly even more are people who have lost their way and are struggling to find a new fit. I certainly don’t have all or sometimes most of the answers, but I do know that as I have said before, a job does not define you, just like a University or a high school does not define a teacher or a student. You help define it, and that’s how you make your impact. Finding that little bit of joy in all is what makes this ride so special.
No one said it was going to be easy, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the ride right? Whether we are high school students or award winning artists, we only get one shot at this, so let’s not miss the opportunity. We are all in it together.
That’s what Giannis brings to all that he touches. A great sense of where he is, and the awareness that maybe, just maybe, it could all vanish in a cynical and fate twisting cloud. He emoted feelings to the last day and emitted boundless Joy. It was conveyed in everything he did, and it still did, from his Chick Fil A drive in moment to his day at the parade.
Hey am I always the happiest of people? Ha, that’s funny. However I do find joy in something, anything every day, and now that the weather is getting a little cooler (and we have some momentous family occasions coming) I’m hoping that joy is conveyed to others we pass along the road. It has certainly been conveyed back to me in some notes and emails I have received from folks who I tried to help, or just listen to for a few minutes. The pleasure to all…was mine. Being able to help, for me, even a little but, is very joyous.
I have no idea if this is the Pinnacle of Giannis’ career or just another chapter in a still emerging book, and I certainly hope he keeps maturing well beyond his years, but the ability to know ones place and make a little different in the lives of others isn’t always easy, and it isn’t always recognized, but his subtle and over actions are worthwhile and noteworthy in such a tumultuous business.
It was a joy to behold, and it may not be able to convey for the long haul, but don’t stop trying. The impact he had in such a small window in the prism of time was remarkable, and it is something that will bring joy as the next stage starts…the one where he goes from icon to legend, smiling all the way.
Oh, and that reporter? Haven’t heard back from him. Fear The Deer indeed.
