NBA stars and their Star Wars counterparts: Joel Embiid = The Mandalorian
Competency is a useful thing to have in any walk of life, but as a professional basketball player or bounty hunter, it’s vital. Joel Embiid is one of basketball’s most competent players. Not only is he a star-level defensive force inside, but he can score in the post, in the midrange, behind the arc and by getting his teammates involved. No matter the situation he can help his team win, a big part of why he is in the MVP conversation.
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Din Djarin, known as “The Mandalorian” by most, is likewise supremely competent. He speaks multiple languages, including that of the Tusken Raiders of Tatooine, and knows how to use a variety of weapons. He can pilot, repair and improve his ship, and he has even grown as a caretaker. He knows military tactics and diplomacy. He is the complete package.
Both Embiid and Djarin both have excellent nicknames, if simple. Embiid is “The Process” which he coined to support ex-general manager Sam Hinkie and his approach to team-building. Carl Weathers bestows Djarin with the nickname “Mando” which is both obvious and brilliant, and everyone knows who you are talking about when you reference it.
Embiid and Mando are the final pairing in a long list of NBA – Star Wars comparisons. The physical and mental ability needed to survive in the NBA is very similar to that needed in the Star Wars universe. We could triple this list and easily find comparisons across both universes. For now, we will leave the galaxy far, far away and concentrate on the amazing things happening on a basketball court every night.
May the Force Be With You.