Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has spoken candidly about the personal toll of the NBA schedule, admitting it feels "pretty s***ty" to be leaving his pregnant wife at home for an extended road trip.
The Emotional Toll of the NBA Schedule
The veteran player, known for his intense on-court demeanour, revealed a more vulnerable side following his team's defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night. With five away games scheduled over the next fortnight, Green will spend significant time apart from his spouse, Hazel Renee, who is expecting the couple's third child. The pregnancy was announced back in September.
"Pretty s***ty, if I'm honest," Green told reporters, via The New York Post. "But, nonetheless, this is my job. And I love to do my job. But it's terrible, if I'm honest." He expanded on the challenge, stating, "It's been tough. We've been gone so much. I haven't seen my family much over the last month, really."
A Gruelling Fortnight of Travel for the Warriors
The Warriors' itinerary underscores Green's point. The team embarks on a demanding stretch where they will play only a single home game in the next 17 days. Their journey begins with a trip to Philadelphia to face the Sixers on Thursday, followed by matches against the Cleveland Cavaliers and Chicago Bulls over the weekend.
The sole home fixture in this period is set for Friday, December 12, against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This relentless travel schedule is a stark reality of professional basketball, often forcing players to make significant personal sacrifices.
Cherished Family Moments Amid the Grind
Amid the difficulty, Green was able to cherish a family moment during the recent home game. His son, Draymond Jr, was present on the team bench and even assisted at one point. After the game, Green introduced his son to Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren, an experience the Warriors star deeply values.
Reflecting on such opportunities, Green said, "Anytime you can give them those experiences that quite honestly money can't buy, I'm always forever grateful." These brief interactions highlight the delicate balance athletes must strike between their demanding professional commitments and precious family life.
Green's frank comments shed light on the often-overlooked human aspect of elite sport, where glamorous road trips can mean missing key moments at home, especially with a growing family.
