Former NBA player and current ESPN analyst Jay Williams does not want to hear any more complaining about accommodations at the NBA “bubble” in Orlando.
Williams implored the players not to be “tone deaf,” adding guys in the league are “blessed” to be in their respective positions in comparison to the average American.
The former Duke star also said while he understands concerns with respect to COVID-19 in the bubble, complaints regarding food and lodging are “not the right look for the league.”
"NBA players can not be tone deaf." @RealJayWilliams shares his thoughts on NBA players publicly complaining about being in the bubble. pic.twitter.com/h6pQFsgUwh
— ESPN (@espn) July 12, 2020
Numerous players have taken to social media to share insight regarding life in the bubble.
But some, as Williams said, have been critical about dietary and lodging options. This includes Los Angeles Lakers point guard Rajon Rondo, who appeared to showcase some displeasure on Instagram with respect to his room.
Rajon Rondo doesn’t seem pleased with his Orlando room. pic.twitter.com/hjwB2g0tk8
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 9, 2020
Of course, not all players have been critical.
Washington Wizards guard Ish Smith told Fred Katz of The Athletic he is perfectly fine with the food situation.
This is the most Ish Smith quote ever.
Ish gets asked about the viral meal pics of bad food in the bubble but says he’s ‘OK’ with the food: “You might need to ask somebody else who lives more of a high-maintence life…They bring us food. We eat it. So, I’m OK."
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) July 9, 2020
Memphis Grizzlies star rookie point guard Ja Morant offered something similar (via Evan Barnes of the Memphis Commercial Appeal):
“My room is fine, my food is fine. I'm not a silver spoon guy so I know how to live in the conditions,” Morant said Friday, “People complaining but I'm doing good.”
He also brought his own stash of snacks as if to say it doesn't matter what they'll be served as the NBA prepares to restart its season. He'll be good keeping it simple.
“I'm a Ramen noodles guy so I'm used to this,” Morant said.
As Williams said, the NBA and NBPA have worked in unison for months to provide this plan for a “billion-dollar bubble.”
Williams is encouraging players to appreciate the opportunities they have been afforded, and to show more awareness for the plight of the average American citizen amid tough times.