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Dakota Schmidt
I’m thankful to be in a much better position than I was at this time last year, both mentally and physically. At this time last year, I was going through a severe bout of depression that just put me in a three month long rut that prevented me from doing what I love: sitting on my butt to watch and write about basketball. Although that fight for mental normalcy has been a long process that’s still ongoing, I can safely say that I’m in a much better position now than I was in November 2015.
Another thing that I’m thankful for is that I’ve been able to watch the NBADL continue to grow on a yearly basis. Although we’re still a long ways away, we’re getting closer to seeing the NBADL be a true 1-to-1 system to the NBA. Alongside that, we seem to be on the verge of D-League players receiving between $50,000-$75,000 per season in the near future.
Although there’s still a lot of negativity in the world, whether it’s through the president-elect or the horrors that are going on at the Dakota Access Pipeline, it’s imperative to remain optimistic and keep on fighting for what you believe in.
I have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. I am one semester away from graduating, everyone in my family is happy and healthy, and I get to write about the best sport in the world; basketball. When it comes to basketball, there is a lot to be thankful for, but what I'm most thankful for in basketball is the environment it creates.
I've been writing about sports for going on three years now and throughout high school I was a multi-sport athlete, no sport is as welcoming and inclusive as basketball. It doesn't matter who you are, where you're from, what you look like; all you need is a love of the game. It teaches you how to be a team player, how to accept your role, and how to face adversity.
This is all facilitated by the NBA and commissioner Adam Silver. In his short time as commissioner, he has helped create a league that simply does the right thing. Whether it is pulling the All-Star game in Charlotte following HB-2 or participating in New York City's Pride Parade, he has set a tone of inclusion and sticking by marginalized group in a way that no league has before. The tone that the league and its commissioner has set without a doubt trickles down to all levels. Following this election, where a white nationalist who peddles propaganda and hate is now a key advisor to the president and there is talk of putting a religious group on lists, the message of inclusion and acceptance is something that is needed now more than ever.
I'm thankful there is a place for everyone to look and see that it takes all types of people from all walks of life to make America great. In immortal the words of Stephon Marbury, love is love. Happy Thanksgiving y'all! Go eat some turkey, hug your family, and tune into some great hoops tomorrow.
Jasmine Brown
In hoops, I am thankful for every level of opportunity for basketball for anyone who wants to chase their dreams. If anyone isn't NBA ready, there are a vary of other opportunities until that day comes. I am also thankful for the people who shows their talent for fans who love the sport of basketball. Basketball is awesome and will continue to be for years to come.
Harrison Faigen
This Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for all basketball has given me. A job I’m passionate about, tons of new friends, and getting to cover so many interesting stories. The D-League continuing to grow and (reportedly) pay all of the hardworking athletes that make it up a competitive wage starting next year is great news, and further signs of growth for a league that I could not enjoy covering more. Here’s to much more growth, and eventually, a true 1-to-1 minor-league system for the NBA.
David Scott
I am extremely thankful to have the opportunity to freely cover the best sports league on the face of the planet. I can graciously say I have the privilege to voice my opinion of basketball topics, and live in a country that allows me to do this without any restrictions or oppression. As well as this, I am more than thankful to be alive in a day where people can express their athletic talents, inspiring millions across the world, and make a solid living off of it. I hope all of Ridiculous Upside's readers enjoy their Thanksgiving and time with their families!