ESPN
The NBA draft is a life-changing moment for players transitioning from the college game to tthe pro game.
Early on tonight we saw two big-time players break down and get emotional after getting picked.
Firsy, Zion Williamson teared up while talking about his mother after getting drafted #1 overall.
No. 1 overall tears for Zion Williamson.#NBADraft pic.twitter.com/BJEdME7aN8
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 20, 2019
"My mom sacrificed a lot for me. I wouldn't be here without my mom. I just want to thank her. She put her dreams aside for mine"
A tearful Zion Williamson with his mother after being selected 1st in the #NBADraft.
(Via @gifdsports) pic.twitter.com/TBICRodxoC
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) June 20, 2019
Moments later Zion’s former teammate at Duke RJ Barrett got choked up when his father got on stage and began praising him during an interview with Maria Taylor.
RJ Barrett gets emotional while listening to his dad talk about him "I'm proud of you son" pic.twitter.com/2L2qRMheXD
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) June 20, 2019
Zion in tears, RJ in tears. The real emotion of the #NBADraft. pic.twitter.com/SDrcDqFVcB
— ESPN (@espn) June 21, 2019
NBA fans everywhere appreciated the emotion from these young men.
This isn’t just a game. It’s a way of life. Congrats Zion and way to let your heart do the talking! #CAAFamily
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) June 20, 2019
LIVE LOOK AT US CRYING AT ZION CRYING THIS IS JUST A BEAUTIFUL MOMENT pic.twitter.com/an8WZE5xxi
— The Ringer (@ringer) June 20, 2019
https://twitter.com/juliephayer/status/1141857764324663301
Zion is better than everyone at crying, too. https://t.co/HEWF6SAL7Y
— Justin Verrier (@JustinVerrier) June 20, 2019