LeBron James' former teammate, Kendrick Perkins, had no nonsense on Saturday, sounding the alarm on what he thinks is an issue among American players in today's league.
Kendrick Perkins sparks controversy
Speaking on the Road Trippin Show, the former champion didn't mince his words, openly questioning the direction of U.S. talent while referencing Trae Young's move to Washington as part of a wider trend he finds worrisome.
"This is where we have a real problem with American athletes, on and off the floor," Perkins said. "We just watched Trae Young get traded to the Wizards. By the way, the Wizards had to give up absolutely nothing. No picks, no nothing. That was basically a salary dump."
Continuing to express his views on the growing crisis among national athletes, Perkins also noted Ja Morant's situation with the Grizzlies before claiming the Europeans were setting the "example".
"Moving to Ja Morant, three years ago, we were just talking about Ja Morant being the face of the f*cking league," Perkins continued. "We say, 'Oh, hey man, these European guys are coming and taking over our league'. They are not only taking over our league, but (they) are (also) setting the example."
Kendrick Perkins' statement sparked a firestorm, as fans were divided on his opinion on American Athletes.
"AAU culture ruining the nba," a fan wrote.
"Imagine saying this stupid shit when you have tons of American stars rn and more coming up the pipeline. NBA media is just lazy and stupid and keeps marketing the same bums," added another.
Steve Nash weighs in on U.S. basketball development
Kendrick Perkins' statement about American athletes quickly gathered attention online, especially after he brought up Ja Morant and Trae Young in his rant. However, the former Celtics center was not the only voice raising concerns.
On Saturday, Steve Nash also expressed his perspective on U.S. basketball development during an appearance on NBA on Prime.
"Its pay to play in the states. Capitalism is wonderful, not great for player development," Nash said. "In Europe, the playing is free. There's no hidden motives, and we have to win, or the kid is leaving for the next club .... Here it's just been totally commercialized."
The criticism comes from lack of consistency from American athletes while stars from abroad have been picked as the MVP in each of the last seven seasons.