Basketball and Web3 have more in common than you think

NBA All-Star Baron Davis has been making waves with his mission to democratise photography by creating SLiC Images. This rights management platform for independent cultural content, backed by NFT technology, has been built with a grant from Mintbase, which operates on the NEAR blockchain.?

For me this does not only link 2 of my passions (basketball and web3), but it also shows how basketball and Web3 have more in common than we might think.?

First, both can be great societal levellers. Basketball, like all sports, can help people develop essential life skills such as team work, perseverance, discipline, and goal-setting. It can also bring people from different backgrounds and cultures together and promote a sense of community and social inclusion, giving opportunities for those from disadvantaged communities to showcase their talents helping to break down barriers to social mobility.?

Meanwhile, Web3 technology has the potential to promote financial inclusion, democratise access to information, and empower individuals to take control of their data and digital assets. Web3 technology can also promote transparency and accountability, which are important for building trust in institutions and promoting social equity. Like in sports, true collaboration and support for the greater good are crucial.?

Over the weekend, I watched Bill Russell’s documentary on Netflix - and was blown away by the number of relevant lessons that can be learned from his incredible life. A basketball legend, he is a retired American NBA superstar widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players ever. He was also a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice and played a significant role in the NBA's desegregation.?

One of the life lessons I took from the documentary is the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Russell faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout his life, including racism and personal tragedies. Despite these challenges, he never gave up on his dreams and continued to work hard to achieve his goals.?

He also demonstrated the importance of teamwork and collaboration. As a basketball player, he understood that success on the court was not just about individual talent but also about working together as a team. He emphasised the importance of trust, communication, and selflessness, which are critical components of effective teamwork.?

It reminded me that whether it’s in basketball or Web3, winning is about the team. It’s not about the individuals making the team - the only thing that matters is whether the team wins. Teamwork – winning together – is what matters over the individual score.?

In Web3, your team is of course the people you work with day in and out on your project. It’s your community, and it’s also the broader collective who works together to get the web3 vision to be brought to millions of people. It is together that we can realise the Web3 promises of better inclusion and new business models for millions of people - and that’s what winning means.?

The documentary also highlights the importance of using your platform and influence to effect positive change in the world. Throughout his career, Russell was a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice. He used his status as a prominent athlete to bring attention to important issues and effect societal change.?

This is a powerful reminder that we all have a responsibility to use our voices and influence to make the world a better place. Saying your truth without fear of the consequences takes courage and can be alienating, but it is the only way to achieve greatness.

To all great athletes out there, and especially to all the phenomenal basketball coaches and players who continue inspiring us - thank you. And to my Web3 and NEAR teammates, it’s time to go win - together!??