Toronto Raptors’ rising star Scottie Barnes is making headlines, but this time it’s not for his on-court prowess. The 23-year-old forward, fresh off signing a lucrative rookie max contract extension worth up to $270 million, has become the center of a heated debate over his unconventional dating advice. In a candid livestream, Barnes discouraged his followers from using the popular dating app Tinder, suggesting instead that young men should seek out potential partners in more traditional settings like fairs or malls. His comments, while intended to be light-hearted, have ignited a conversation about modern dating practices and the responsibilities of public figures.
Scottie Barnes’ Dating Advice: “Don’t Go Out Sad”:
During a recent livestream, a fan asked Barnes for advice on meeting women, specifically referencing the use of Tinder. The All-Star forward didn’t mince words in his response. “’Need a girl? Use Tinder.’ Nah, bro. Don’t do that. Don’t do that. Please, do not listen to that guy and use Tinder, bro. Like that’s sad. That’s going out sad,” Barnes said, visibly passionate about his stance. He went on to suggest that those in Canada should try their luck at local fairs, where he believes people have better chances of meeting someone in person.
Barnes didn’t stop there. He continued to advocate for traditional face-to-face interactions over digital connections. “Go find one at the mall. Like, go to the mall. Go walk outside. … It’s like, alright, you see something that you like, go get the number, don’t be shy, have some confidence in yourself, simple. Like, bro, don’t you want a good girl?” Barnes added, urging his fans to step out of their comfort zones and engage in real-world socialization.
Scottie Barnes gives advice on how to get a girl
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A Star with Old-School Views in a Modern World:
Barnes’ comments have struck a chord with many, particularly younger fans who rely heavily on dating apps like Tinder to meet new people. In a world where digital interactions are becoming the norm, Barnes’ old-school approach seems almost revolutionary—and not without controversy. Some fans praised him for promoting confidence and real-world connections, while others criticized his remarks as out-of-touch with the realities of modern dating.
This isn’t the first time Barnes has shared his thoughts on dating. In previous streams, he has consistently encouraged his followers to avoid online dating and instead meet people in natural, everyday environments. While his advice comes from a place of authenticity, it raises questions about the impact of celebrity opinions on young and impressionable fans. Should a public figure like Barnes be more mindful of the diverse ways people connect in today’s world, or is he right to push for what he believes are healthier alternatives?
A Lucrative Extension Amid Controversy:
Barnes’ outspoken views come at a time when his career is on an undeniable upswing. The Toronto Raptors recently rewarded him with a five-year, $225 million contract extension, which could balloon to $270 million if certain performance criteria are met. This extension solidifies Barnes as the centerpiece of the Raptors’ rebuild, following a season where he posted career-high averages of 19.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game.
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Barnes’ contract extension underscores the Raptors’ commitment to building around their young star, who was instrumental in leading the team through a challenging season. Despite suffering a broken hand in March, which cut his breakout season short, Barnes’ impact was undeniable. His early-season dominance even earned him his first NBA All-Star selection—a significant milestone in what promises to be a storied career.
The Pressure of Being the Franchise Face:
As Scottie Barnes steps into his role as the face of the Raptors franchise, the pressure on him will only intensify. Not only will he be expected to deliver on the court, but his off-court actions and opinions will also be scrutinized more than ever. His recent comments on dating have already shown how quickly his words can become a topic of public debate. As a young player with a massive following, Barnes’ influence extends far beyond basketball, and his remarks—whether about Tinder or anything else—will continue to shape how he is perceived by fans and the media alike.
Scottie Barnes’ remarks highlight a broader issue about the responsibilities of public figures in the digital age. While his advice comes from a genuine place, it’s important to recognize that not everyone has the same social opportunities or confidence levels. Dating apps like Tinder have become a vital tool for many people to meet and connect in ways that might not be possible otherwise. Dismissing them outright could be seen as alienating to a significant portion of his fan base who rely on these platforms.
Moreover, as Barnes’ star continues to rise, he must be mindful of the influence he wields. His words carry weight, and with his growing platform, he has the potential to impact the lives of countless young fans. While promoting confidence and in-person interactions is commendable, it’s crucial that he also acknowledges the diversity of experiences and needs among his followers.
As Scottie Barnes leads the Toronto Raptors into a new era, both on and off the court, how he navigates his role as a public figure will be as critical as his performance in games. The spotlight will not only be on his basketball skills but also on how he uses his voice in the broader conversation about life, love, and everything in between.
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