Rise of the NBA Nerd

In the Article “Rise of the NBA Nerd,” I believe that author Wesley Morris is not just making a statement about a new fashion fad that includes dressing like a nerd, but he is making the argument that these changes which are taking place are affecting all areas of black culture and popularity.  

As an Example, Morris uses actor Sammy Davis Jr., better known as “Carlton” from the T.V. show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Morris makes the statement that the idea of “a rich black kid” was still quite an unsettling thought to most folks in the 90’s and Carlton was the ideal example of the kind of rich black kid that white people wanted in the 90’s.  His style and demeanor related to, “selling out” or accepting white idealism to many.

Many characters, such as Carlton, and Urkel left a legacy which has even affected today’s culture.  The fact is, many black celebrities, such as basketball players and rappers, have embraced this trending geek sheik, I believe, to convey to the rich black kids out there that wearing nice clothes and acting in a dignified manner is not equivalent to selling out to white idealism, but it is rather an acceptance of self and individuality.  The clothes we wear reflect our personalities, and are used to express ourselves.  

Take for example, the rap group Odd Future or the rapper Childish Gambino. They are a group of rappers who definitely do not fit the rap stereotype, yet they are one of the most distinguished rap groups due to their refusal to conform to the norm.  Due to this refusal, they have become widely known and widely admired by the public, all due to their self representation, and their willingness to act and dress in a manner that does not fit the racial stigma of a “rapper.”

Morris, at least to me, is making the argument that breaking away from the norm has actually helped in expanding developing black culture into something that is not normally thought of, and I strongly agree.  Black culture is more than fighting, rapping, and basketball, it also has a dignified and refined element to it as seen by the statements in fashion and demeanor shown by these individuals.  Black culture will never be the same as long as there are those who are not afraid not to conform.