🏀Not every NBA player receives a statue, only the greatest of the greats.
🗿The statues capture iconic moments and poses from the players' careers.
🌍Some statues symbolize more than just NBA history, representing important social and racial changes.
🎥Statues can be found in various locations, including team arenas and universities.
📏Statues range in size, from life-sized representations to towering 17-foot sculptures.
Who decides which NBA players receive statues?
—The decision to honor an NBA player with a statue is typically made by the team or city in recognition of the player's significant contributions and impact on the game.
Are these statues exact replicas of the players?
—While the statues aim to capture the likeness and essence of the players, they are artistic representations rather than exact replicas.
Where can these statues be found?
—These statues can be found in various locations, including team arenas, city landmarks, and even universities associated with the player's college career.
What do these statues symbolize?
—These statues symbolize the players' greatness, their impact on the game, and their lasting legacy. Some statues also represent important moments in NBA history or social and racial changes.
Are there any other NBA players deserving of a statue?
—There are many NBA players who have made significant contributions to the game and may be deserving of a statue. The decision to honor a player with a statue is subjective and depends on the team or city's recognition of their impact.
00:03Introduction to the topic of NBA players with statues.
00:38Scottie Pippen's statue is criticized for its small size and inaccurate depiction.
01:07Bill Russell's statue represents not just NBA history, but also symbolizes racial relations in Boston.
01:36Jerry West's statue captures his iconic dribbling motion.
02:05Elgin Baylor's 16-foot statue captures him in mid-movement, but with mixed success.
02:31George Mikan's statue celebrates his dominance in the NBA, but raises questions as to his Minnesota or Lakers legacy.
02:55Hakeem Olajuwon's statue features him dribbling, although it deviates from his actual playing style.
03:17Larry Bird's statue is located at Indiana State University, not the Boston Garden, but accurately portrays him mid-jump shot.
