Basketball legends and global celebrities were ever-present in Abu Dhabi this weekend, with the second edition of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games in town – and none stood taller than NBA icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (literally, and figuratively).
The Hall of Famer and six-time NBA champion performed his duties as an NBA ambassador, participating in various activities surrounding and community outreach programmes in the UAE capital
The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 presented by ADQ, featured a series of two pre-season games between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Dallas Mavericks, and watched on by one of the greatest to ever do it, Abdul-Jabbar had plenty to say to Esquire Middle East.
As part of the iconic, all-conquering 1980s LA Lakers team – nicknamed ‘Showtime Lakers’ – Abdul-Jabbar’s incredible scoring ability played a huge part in turning the NBA into a global sport. This globalised direction is very much something that the NBA is looking to continue today with events such as hosting pre-season games in Abu Dhabi.
“Yes, I believe the NBA is focused on expanding the game’s popularity,” Abdul-Jabbar tells Esquire. “The entire world is now connected to the internet, making it possible to stream games, and that has made a significant difference.”
The Showtime Lakers had incredible chemistry, with Abdul-Jabbar and point guard great Magic Johnosn leading the team to five championship wins. Speaking about the importance of the NBA games in Abu Dhabi in building team chemistry, Abdul-Jabbar added: “Preseason games help in understanding the talent on the team and how players play together. While coaching, you can figure out in one or two weeks of watching the guys practice every day how well various players work together with others. That’s an important aspect in trying to make it all the way to the finals.”
Famed for his iconic ‘Skyhook’ shot, Abdul-Jabbar advised big men to focus more on their defensive end of the game. “I would advise top players to work on the fundamentals around the hoop, especially in rebounding and defence,” he said.
“If they can excel in rebounding and defence, they are valuable and will remain valuable. If they have an offensive game to go along with their defensive play, they will have a great career. The whole idea of mastering the fundamentals of the game is what keeps people in the game longer. You explain that to people, and once they get it, they stay in the game for a long time.”
Abdul-Jabbar is not only a committed social activist but also an award-winning writer. Time magazine dubbed him “History’s Greatest Player,” and both ESPN and The Pac 12 named him the #1 Collegiate Athlete of the 21st Century. Discussing his engagement in politics, he stressed he prefers to let his written words to the talking. “I don’t get overly involved in politics except through my kareemabduljabbar.com portal. I delve into the intersection of sports, politics, and popular culture. I share my opinions on various matters, allowing people to understand my political stance. It’s the safest way to express myself and ensure that people know where I stand.”
For both NBA fans and seekers of entertainment, the NBA week in Abu Dhabi created indelible memories as they enjoyed a week-long showcase of athleticism and excitement that ended with the Timberwolves triumphing over the Mavericks, securing a two-game sweep in the capital.