The Miz’s Top NBA Players Who Could Transition to WWE Superstars
WWE superstar The Miz, whose real name is Michael Gregory Mizanin, recently stirred excitement by sharing his thoughts on which NBA players could successfully transition into professional wrestling.1
Speaking on national TV, he listed five NBA stars he believes have the potential to make it big in WWE. This revelation came during his appearance on NBA Today ahead of SummerSlam in Cleveland, Ohio, his hometown.
Table of Contents
Draymond Green: A Natural Fit for WWE
Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors topped The Miz’s list. Known for his aggressive playing style, defensive prowess, and outspoken nature, Green has the personality traits that could make him a natural fit in the WWE ring.
His physicality and ability to engage with both teammates and opponents on the court suggest he could thrive in the world of professional wrestling.
Tyrese Haliburton: Courage and Charisma
Coming in at number five on The Miz’s list is Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers All-Star guard and Team USA member. The Miz was particularly impressed by Haliburton’s courage and charisma.
Haliburton made headlines when he attended a WWE show at Madison Square Garden and called out New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson, even amidst a chorus of boos from the crowd. This boldness and willingness to engage with fans and opponents alike make Haliburton a prime candidate for a future in WWE.
The Miz’s Top Five NBA Players for WWE
During his appearance on NBA Today, The Miz presented his complete list of NBA players who could excel as WWE superstars. His selections were diverse and showcased a range of skills and personalities that could translate well to professional wrestling.
The Reaction of Host Malika Andrews
- Host Malika Andrews was both amused and surprised by The Miz’s choices. The diversity of the selected players, ranging from established stars to young talents, highlighted The Miz’s keen eye for potential wrestling superstars.2
- Andrews appreciated the thoughtfulness behind each selection, recognizing the unique qualities each player could bring to the WWE universe.
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- The Miz himself is a prime example of a successful transition from a different entertainment background to WWE stardom.
- Starting his career as a reality TV star on MTV’s “The Real World,” The Miz has become one of WWE’s most recognizable and charismatic figures. His insight into the qualities needed to succeed in WWE adds weight to his selections of NBA players.
Also Read: Draymond Green and Kenny Smith: The Flagrant Foul Debate Involving Karl-Anthony Towns
Draymond Green: A Favorite Pick Among WWE Superstars
Draymond Green, the Golden State Warriors All-Star, has caught the eye of not only NBA fans but also WWE superstars. Known for his intense playing style and outspoken personality, Green is increasingly being seen as a potential future star in the world of professional wrestling.3
WWE superstar Bayley is among those who believe Green has what it takes to succeed in the WWE ring.
Bayley’s Endorsement of Draymond Green
- Bayley, a prominent WWE superstar, expressed her admiration for Draymond Green’s potential in wrestling during an interview on the “Gabby AF” podcast in January.
- Bayley highlighted specific qualities of Green that she believes would make him a successful pro wrestler.
- She praised Green’s intensity, charisma, and ability to engage with fans and opponents alike—traits that are highly valued in the WWE world.
- Bayley’s endorsement is significant, considering her status as one of WWE’s top female stars. Her support underscores Green’s potential crossover appeal and the excitement that his entry into the WWE universe could generate.
- Bayley’s insights reflect a broader sentiment among WWE stars who recognize Green’s unique attributes that could translate well into professional wrestling.
Draymond Green’s Qualities for WWE Success
Draymond Green’s attributes make him a standout candidate for a potential WWE career. Green is known for his aggressive and physical style of play on the basketball court.
His confrontational approach and willingness to engage in rough play, as seen in his clashes with Rudy Gobert and Jusuf Nurkic, demonstrate a level of intensity that could easily translate into the high-energy environment of WWE.
Outspoken Nature
Green’s outspoken personality and his knack for stirring controversy can make for compelling storylines in WWE. The wrestling world thrives on rivalries and drama, and Green’s ability to generate buzz and provoke reactions fits well with the entertainment aspect of professional wrestling.
Draymond Green: Childhood & Early Life
Draymond Green was born on March 4, 1990, to Mary Babers and Wallace Davis. His early years were shaped by the dynamics of his family life and his environment in Saginaw, Michigan.
Following his parents’ divorce, Green stayed with his mother, Mary Babers, who has been a significant influence in his life. Their close bond played a pivotal role in his upbringing and personal development.
Draymond Green #NBAVote pic.twitter.com/Aq67WzXVse
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 6, 2018
Growing Up in Saginaw
Green’s formative years were spent in Saginaw, a city in central Michigan known for its rich history and community spirit. Growing up in this environment, Green was exposed to the challenges and opportunities that shaped his character. Saginaw’s local sports culture and the support of his family helped foster his early interest in basketball.
Education and High School
Green attended Saginaw High School, where his basketball talents began to shine. His performance on the court at Saginaw High was instrumental in his development as a player. Green’s time at high school was marked by significant achievements, which laid the foundation for his future in professional basketball.
His high school career was distinguished by impressive performances that caught the attention of college scouts. Green’s dedication and skill during these years set the stage for his successful transition to college basketball and eventually to the NBA.
Influence of Family
Throughout his early life, Green’s family played a crucial role in supporting and guiding him. His mother, Mary Babers, in particular, was a significant source of strength and encouragement.
Green’s close relationship with his family provided him with a solid support system, which was essential in navigating the challenges of growing up and pursuing a professional career in sports.
Also Read: Draymond Green: Who Is He? Bio, Career, Family, Siblings, Net Worth 2024 and More
Draymond Green: Professional Career
Draymond Green’s professional basketball journey began when he was selected with the 35th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. His entry into the league marked the beginning of what would become a highly impactful and storied career.
Initial Contract and Early Days
On July 30, 2012, Green signed a three-year contract with the Warriors worth $2.6 million. This deal secured his place on the team and provided him with the opportunity to prove himself on the NBA stage.
Green made his NBA debut on October 31, 2012, during the Warriors’ season opener against the Phoenix Suns. In this initial appearance, Green played just one minute, recorded one defensive rebound, and committed one foul. Despite this brief stint, it was clear that Green had the potential to contribute significantly to his team.
Development and Growth
Green’s development during his rookie season was marked by steady progress. Although he did not receive extensive playing time initially, he demonstrated his capabilities in the opportunities he was given. His defensive prowess, tenacity, and versatility began to emerge as key assets.
In his second season with the Warriors, Green started to see more playing time and became a crucial part of the team’s rotation. His contributions on both ends of the floor were increasingly recognized, leading to his first notable achievements in the league.
Rise to Prominence
- Green’s real breakthrough came during the 2014-2015 NBA season. He played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ success, contributing to their NBA Championship win.
- His defensive skills, ability to guard multiple positions, and playmaking abilities were instrumental in the team’s performance throughout the season.
- Green’s versatility allowed him to excel in various roles, from a power forward to a center, and he quickly became known for his high basketball IQ and leadership on the court.
- His impact was not only on the defensive end but also in his ability to facilitate offense and contribute as a playmaker.
Draymond Green Salary and Contract Evolution
Draymond Green’s salary trajectory has seen a remarkable rise since he entered the NBA. In his rookie season with the Golden State Warriors (2012-2013), Green earned a base salary of approximately $850,000. This modest salary reflected his status as a rookie with limited experience in the league.
Gradual Increases
Green’s salary saw a slight increase in his second year, rising to $875,500 for the 2013-2014 season. This incremental rise was a typical adjustment for young players as they established themselves in the league. In the 2014-2015 season, his salary increased further to $915,243, reflecting his growing role and contributions to the Warriors.
Breakthrough Year and Major Raise
The 2015-2016 season marked a significant turning point in Green’s career and salary. Following the Warriors’ successful championship run, Green’s earnings saw a substantial increase.
His salary for the 2015-2016 season was $14,260,870, a notable jump from previous years. This increase was a testament to his pivotal role in the team’s success and his growing value as a player.
Continued Success and Rising Salaries
- Green’s salary continued to rise in the subsequent seasons. In the 2016-2017 season, he earned $15,330,435. The 2017-2018 season saw his salary increase to $16,400,000.
- This rise was indicative of his continued impact on the court and his importance to the Warriors’ success.
- In the 2018-2019 season, Green’s salary reached $17,469,565. The following year, he earned $17,380,434. These figures reflected his established status as a key player for the Warriors and the ongoing appreciation of his contributions to the team.
- For the 2023-2024 NBA season, Draymond Green is earning a base salary of $22,321,429. This figure is part of his recent four-year, $100 million contract with the Golden State Warriors, which he signed during the 2023 off-season.
- This contract stipulates an average annual salary of $25 million, reflecting Green’s high value to the team and his continued excellence on the court.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Draymond Green?
Ans: Draymond Green is a professional basketball player for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA. Known for his versatility, defensive prowess, and leadership, Green is a three-time NBA champion and has been named an NBA All-Star multiple times.
2. What is The Miz’s top 5 NBA players who could be WWE Superstars list?
Ans: The Miz, a WWE Superstar and former champion, compiled a list of NBA players who he believes have the potential to excel in WWE. Draymond Green topped this list due to his physicality, charisma, and competitive nature, qualities that could translate well into professional wrestling.
3. Why did The Miz include Draymond Green at the top of his list?
Ans: The Miz included Draymond Green at the top of his list because of Green’s:
- Physicality and Strength: Green’s athleticism and muscular build would be assets in the ring.
- Charisma: His on-court presence and ability to engage with fans are qualities that could make him a compelling WWE performer.
- Competitive Nature: Green’s intense competitiveness and leadership could translate into a strong wrestling persona.
4. What are the other players included in The Miz’s top 5 list?
Ans: The Miz’s top 5 NBA players who could be WWE Superstars likely includes other notable athletes known for their physical presence and charisma.
Although the complete list may vary, it typically features players with strong personalities and athleticism, such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and others known for their presence on and off the court.
5. How might NBA players transition to WWE if they were interested?
Ans: NBA players looking to transition to WWE would need to:
- Undergo Training: They would need to train at a wrestling school to learn the skills and techniques required for professional wrestling.
- Develop a Wrestling Persona: Creating a unique character and persona is essential for success in WWE.
- Commit to the Schedule: WWE requires a rigorous travel and performance schedule, which involves a significant commitment beyond what is typical for professional athletes.
Read More: The Mystery Behind Draymond Green Absence from Warriors vs. Mavericks Clash
