The 2018 blockbuster Marvel Studios film “Black Panther” just wasn’t a pop culture hit, it also was more than two-hours worth of celebrating African-American culture. As such, it came as no surprise that the Black Panther fever eventually spilled into The Association as well.
The Indiana Pacers’ All-Star guard Victor Oladipo started things off via his obligatory gimmick dunk during the All-Star Slam Dunk Contest by procuring a Black Panther mask supplied by none other than King T’Challa himself, Chadwick Boseman, although the dunk that followed was iffy at best.
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s Patrick Patterson also wrote about the film extensively for the Player’s Tribune. Dallas Mavericks forward Harrison Barnes loved it so much, he even treated 150 kids to a free screening of the movie.
But probably the best compliment came by way of Cleveland from the Cavaliers’ very own LeBron James who hails it as “one of the greatest movies” he has ever seen and went into detail as to why it is such an important film.
And since the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player has been practically carrying the team for most of the regular season and even more so in the playoffs, maybe it is about time he reaches out to his hero — specifically one from Wakanda.
In real life, James’ supporting cast stepped up late in the game to help the Cavs stave off the Pacers and win Game 7.
For now, questions about the King committing to “Cleveland Forever” is safe because if a first-round exit would have occurred, we may have seen this “King” fade to ashes.
