Drowning in the Digital Deluge: Steve Kerr on Media, Modern Society, and the NBA

The 24/7 Noise: More Than Just a Basketball Problem

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr believes the constant chatter surrounding the NBA isn't solely a sports media issue, but a reflection of our hyper-connected world. Before the Warriors' thrilling 121-119 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, Kerr discussed how the relentless news cycle and the omnipresence of social media have drastically altered the landscape of sports coverage.

“I just think anything like that is more of a reflection of modern society than media itself," Kerr observed. He pointed out that while criticism existed in the past, the sheer volume and accessibility have amplified the pressure on today's athletes.

Then and Now: Magic Johnson vs. The Modern Player

Kerr recalled the media scrutiny faced by Lakers legend Magic Johnson early in his career. While Magic faced tough columns and talk radio, he didn't have the added pressure of constant social media feedback, a reality starkly different from the experience of athletes today.

“Growing up… I remember the media writing Magic Johnson got ripped [when] things went wrong… his first couple years," Kerr reminisced. "But he didn't have a phone in his hand with fans telling him that he sucked.” Kerr emphasized that the style of coverage hasn't necessarily changed; the difference lies in the amplified volume and the inescapable nature of the digital age.

"There was plenty of negative stuff back in the day… It's just the volume, the sheer volume," Kerr stated.

Kerr's Close Call: A Personal Anecdote on Media Impact

Kerr shared a personal story illustrating the profound impact media can have on a player's psyche. While trying out for the Chicago Bulls on a non-guaranteed contract, he read a newspaper article predicting he would be cut. The impact was immediate and negative.

"I picked up the Chicago Tribune and… I was probably going to get cut," Kerr recounted. "I was shocked and crushed and the next day I had a lousy practice because it was on my mind.” This experience led to a conscious decision to disconnect from media coverage, a decision that served him well throughout his career. “It dawned on me I would be better served not reading that stuff.”

Following this incident, Kerr found a resourceful way to stay informed about the game without the added noise: he started reading USA Today for box scores, knowing it was less likely to feature in-depth Bulls coverage.

A Shared Humanity: Remembering What Matters

While the intensity of sports fandom and the pressure on athletes are undeniable, Kerr's perspective reminds us of a crucial element: the human factor. In the whirlwind of digital discourse, it's easy to lose sight of the individuals at the heart of the game.