Suns owner bashes tanking as 'done by losers'

Suns owner Mat Ishbia has publicly criticized the practice of tanking in the NBA, labeling it as "losing behavior done by losers." He expressed his disdain for teams that engage in this strategy, which he believes undermines the integrity of the game. Ishbia emphasized that he finds tanking to be "much worse than any prop bet scandal," indicating a strong stance against teams that intentionally perform poorly to secure better draft picks. During the NBA All-Star Weekend, Commissioner Adam Silver echoed Ishbia's sentiments, stating that the blatant approach to tanking he has observed is worse than he has seen in recent memory. This acknowledgment from the league's commissioner highlights a growing concern regarding the impact of tanking on the competitive nature of the league. Both Ishbia and Silver's comments reflect a broader frustration within the NBA regarding teams that prioritize long-term gains over immediate competition. The criticism from Ishbia and Silver comes at a time when the NBA is facing scrutiny over the tactics some teams employ to improve their chances in future drafts. Their remarks suggest a desire for a more competitive environment where teams strive to win rather than intentionally lose games. This ongoing discussion about tanking raises questions about the future of team strategies and the overall health of the league.