The NBA playoffs are a time for high drama, intense competition, and unforgettable moments. But during the Minnesota Timberwolves’ crucial playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, a different kind of drama unfolded. Center Rudy Gobert missed Game 2 due to the birth of his child, sparking a debate ignited by former NBA player Gilbert Arenas.
Rudy Gobert Goes MIA: Birth of Child or Playoff Commitment?
The Timberwolves were looking to take control of the series after a strong Game 1 victory. However, their plans were disrupted by Gobert’s absence. The All-Star center welcomed his newborn son, forcing him to miss the crucial matchup. This decision caught the attention of many, including former Washington Wizards star Gilbert Arenas.
“It’s a Baby Bro”: Arenas Takes Aim at Gobert’s Choice
Arenas took to his podcast, “Gil’s Arena,” to voice his opinion on Gobert’s absence. His comments were blunt and critical, as captured in a tweet by NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral): “It’s a baby bro, it’s gonna be there when you get back.” This statement essentially boiled down to Arenas believing Gobert should have prioritized basketball over the birth of his child. Needless to say, this take caused a stir on social media.
Gilbert Arenas calls out Rudy Gobert for missing a playoff game for the birth of his child
“It’s a baby bro, it’s gonna be there when you get back.”
(🎥 @GilsArenaShow ) pic.twitter.com/2Gc79H4RoI
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 7, 2024
The Controversy
“It’s a baby, bro. It’s gonna be there when you get back, we hope,” Arenas said on his “Gil’s Arena” show before Minnesota’s 106-80 road win to grab a 2-0 series lead. He went on to emphasize that Gobert’s responsibilities as a professional basketball player should take precedence over personal matters. Arenas, a father of four himself, believed that Gobert should have been there for his team.
Rudy Gobert’s Situation
Rudy Gobert, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year, was questionable entering Monday’s game after his baby boy was born. There were questions about whether he would travel to Denver for the game. Gobert and his girlfriend, Julia Bonilla, announced her pregnancy in February with an Instagram post showcasing Bonilla’s bump.
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