In a recent episode of his podcast “The Old Man & the Three,” former NBA player JJ Redick took a moment to address comments made by Fox Sports analyst Colin Cowherd regarding Redick’s choice to wear his hat Over backward during the “Mind The Game” podcast. The exchange has since sparked a lively debate in sports media circles.
On his podcast, Redick, alongside co-host Richard Jefferson, delved into an analysis of Game 5 between the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, before getting into the game details, Redick responded to Cowherd’s remarks with a mix of humor and pointed commentary.
Cowherd had previously criticized Redick’s over backward hat, suggesting it undermined his professional image and disqualified him from being taken seriously as a potential NBA coach. “I wanna apologize to you for my unprofessionalism this morning with the over backwards cap because, I don’t know if people know this or not, but certain times when you record content, you’re not allowed to have logos,” Redick said, alluding to Cowherd’s comments. “So, I don’t have any hats without logos, so I’ve got to turn my cap backwards.”
Cowherd’s initial comment came during a discussion on Redick’s podcast appearance with LeBron James, where Redick sported his trademark backward cap. Cowherd quipped that Redick looked more like someone “that’s gonna move my couch” rather than an NBA executive or coach. This analogy drew sharp reactions, including from LeBron James himself.
LeBron James, never one to shy away from supporting his peers, took to social media to defend Redick. He posted pictures of Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd and Utah Jazz billionaire owner Ryan Smith, both wearing their hats backward, and commented, “He really doesn’t like your (hat) JJ!!. I wonder if these two (are) ok. They have damn good jobs I believe.”
Cowherd, seeing the post from James, responded with a single word: “Hurtful.” Despite the backlash, Cowherd doubled down on his stance, arguing that professional standards are at stake. “We can’t just keep lowering our standards, or pretty soon, hat on backward becomes flip-flops and board shorts to work,” Cowherd said. “If I have to be the mean guy that has to start the national dialogue on standards, so be it. … Go ahead. Standards are standards.”
This isn’t the first time Cowherd has voiced his disdain for the backward hat style. He has previously criticized Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Carson Wentz for the same reason, indicating a broader discomfort with the casual fashion trend in professional settings.
From a journalistic perspective, this spat between Redick and Cowherd highlights an intriguing cultural clash within sports media. On one hand, Cowherd represents a more traditional viewpoint, emphasizing professional decorum and appearance. On the other, Redick and his supporters, including high-profile athletes like LeBron James, argue for a more relaxed, authentic expression that aligns with contemporary attitudes.
This debate taps into larger societal questions about professionalism and appearance. Should there be rigid standards for how professionals present themselves, or is there room for personal style and comfort? Redick’s light-hearted yet firm rebuttal, coupled with James’ high-profile support, suggests a shift towards valuing substance over superficial judgments.
As the discussion over Redick’s backward hat continues to ripple through sports media, it underscores the evolving norms of professionalism. Redick’s response not only defends his personal style but also challenges the notion that appearance can dictate capability. With influential figures like LeBron James weighing in, the conversation is far from over, signaling a broader reassessment of what it means to be “professional” in the modern era.
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