There is little doubt in my mind that Boban Marjanovic is one of the nicest people in the NBA. Need proof? Here's how some players and other figures around the league — both teammates and opponents — have described the 7-foot-4, 290-pound (gentle) giant:
— "...He's one of the all-time great guys, and you all know that." - Gregg Popovich
— "He yucks it up with everybody and anybody. He's immediately your best friend." - Mark Cuban
— "Boban’s love is genuine. And that’s why people like him so much; that’s why he has a bond with everybody." - Austin Rivers
— "He (will) go make meaningful conversations with anybody... He’s great at connecting with people and really getting to know people on a deeper level." - Ryan Broekhoff
— "The guy gets no privacy, yet the way he responds to people is so good and with such generosity and such kindness to people." - Stan Van Gundy
— "He's a special, caring, loving, upbeat guy." - Gregg Popovich, again
Thanks to Tim Cato's compilation of these terrific quotes — definitely check it out if you love Boban, as most of us do — for the reminder of just how great Bobi is. When there's a double dose of Popovich compliments, you really know how special someone is.
So Boban could never commit a foul that's defined as "unnecessary and excessive contact committed by a player against an opponent" and warrants an immediate ejection... right?
Man oh man. Even the nicest guy the league has to offer can't escape the wrath of the referees. I mean, yes, it was a hard foul that Jordan Poole probably never wants to come close to experiencing ever again. I don't know if I'd wake up after a Boban-sized arm completely clotheslines me in the middle of a layup attempt.
But... but... it's Boban! That was the general consensus on NBA Twitter after the foul, with several players and fans lamenting the fact that poor old Boban was treated too harshly for his mistake.
Still wondering why he's receiving all the sympathy as opposed to Poole, who you may recall got absolutely clobbered by a 7-foot-4 behemoth? Maybe Boban's post-ejection Instagram post will persuade you that he really only ever means well.
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