The NBA community is ruthless toward star players. Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George is far from an exception.
George received the most criticism of his career during his NBA playoffs struggles with the Los Angeles Clippers. It's not stopping after signing with the Sixers, as Philadelphia has one of the most harsh fanbases in the nation.
While he's yet to step foot on the court in a 76ers uniform, fans are already going after him for a moment on the international stage. George was joined by fellow stars Jimmy Butler (Miami Heat) and James Harden (Clippers) for a charity game hosted by Yao Ming on Tuesday, where a lowlight went viral.
The Sixers forward attempted to isolate a defender in turn, hoping for an easy bucket. Instead, the defender locked down George, leading to a fumbled move and turnover.
"It’s over for Philly already. Paul George out in China getting clamped by dudes who just got off work," one user posted.
The reactions on social media are a serious overreaction.
"Nah but why was he highkey getting STRAPPED UP," a user wrote. "He underestimated the Chinese champs."
The Big Three—Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and George—pose as great a threat as anyone to the reigning champion Boston Celtics. The New York Knicks also made strong improvements, but having the best player on the floor always grants Philadelphia an upper hand.
"Philly really gave that dude $53m a year," someone joked.
George is embracing all the hatred he knows is coming his way.
“Be as critical and as hard as you can,” George said, according to Ben Istvan. “I think it’s going to work out for myself and for the team. … I’m not scared or shying away from that at any point, at any stage. That’s what you look forward to.”
George likely pays no mind to this sort of trolling as a seasoned veteran at age 34.
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