Thoughts in general?
"My thought". The NBA definitely chose the right player to make an example of in this matter. It brought the message/warning across, and it didn't give them a hard decision because he isn't a player whose name is spelled L-E-B-R-O-N. Because if it was actually a player such as Lebron or one of those "highly-endorsed" players, then we could truly expect the NBA to hide this matter from the public, OR have the player make a "public apology" + a suspension, but not a life-time ban.
Maybe yes or no on this matter. It’s subjective because there’s rules about this specific matter which even popular names are not exempted to the punishment especially if there’s a player already received punishment on same violation.
I doubt popular player will do idiotic move like this because they already have enough salary and good career. Only minor role player can be tempted to this since they feel that their salary is not worthy while they don’t enjoy the game that much because they have few ball time.
But if Lebron caught doing this. The public will surely enraged if the punishment is not the same to Porter.
Please get the context.
I didn't say Lebron would do something like that. I'm merely saying that, in general, if someone becomes popular enough I believe that it would be very hard for the NBA to make the unpopular decision even if the person deserves it. Jontay Porter is the best situation for the NBA because they can make an example of him, and it would absolutely be NOT a loss to ban him from playing in the NBA for life.