The NBA’s Chess Fever: How Chess is Taking Over the League
The NBA is known for its fast-paced action on the court, but behind the scenes, a different kind of strategic game is taking center stage—chess. The chess fever has spread to teams like the Golden State Warriors and the Philadelphia 76ers, with players and executives alike embracing the game of kings.
For the Warriors, the connection between basketball and chess is clear. Backup shooting guard Moses Moody, an avid chess player, has witnessed his teammates wagering as much as $2,000 on a single match. He notes that a player’s on-court style often carries over to the chessboard, with sharpshooters like Klay Thompson exhibiting an aggressive mentality in both arenas.
Thompson, who has taught teammates like Steph Curry and Draymond Green the basics of chess, reveals that Curry is a beginner but passionate learner, while Green enjoys commentating and rooting for Thompson’s opponents. The camaraderie and competition fostered by chess have become a bonding experience for the Warriors, adding another dimension to their already formidable team chemistry.
Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, the influence of team president Daryl Morey’s love for chess is palpable throughout the organization. Morey, known for his innovative approach to basketball strategy, boasts an impressive 1700 Elo rating on Chess.com and has even created a bot that trash talks opponents using Broadway showtune lyrics.
From players like Paul Reed and De’Anthony Melton to the training staff, chess has become a unifying force within the 76ers organization. Melton recently hosted a chess tournament for kids in the Philly area, while Reed rediscovered his love for the game upon joining the team, finding a community of fellow chess enthusiasts among his coaches and teammates.
As the NBA chess club continues to grow, it’s clear that the strategic thinking and camaraderie fostered by the game are enhancing team dynamics and providing a new outlet for competition and camaraderie among players and executives alike.