Why do NBA Players Give Postgame Interviews?

Whether after a particularly devastating loss or an unexpected win, the postgame player interviews are an integral part of an NBA game and have come to be expected by casual and avid fans alike.  But just why do NBA players give a postgame interview and what can we learn from these interviews?

Unfortunately, for many fans, the postgame interview may seem like a waste of time and an unnecessary exercise.  However, the postgame interview can in fact provide insight into an individual players mindset, their frustrations, successes, and what the team’s future may hold.

Why Are There Postgame Interviews?

NBA postgame interviews are not necessary to the game.  In fact, they are a rather newer segment and addition to the game.  However, postgame interviews are not completely devoid of substance.  Rather, they are meant to provide additional insight into the game, directly from players who played in it.

In fact, postgame interviews are perhaps one of the best and only sources of information on the previous game directly from the source.  Little to no other interviews are provided by the players which discuss a recently completed game and the postgame interview is one of the only sources of record on the recently completed game.

In addition, whether after a win or a loss, NBA players are often looking to discuss both openly and honestly their thoughts on the completed game.  Within the postgame interview, players will discuss their thoughts on the game, the plays they made, and what changes they believe will be helpful to the team’s future success.

And, in addition, postgame interviews provide members of the press and the media with an opportunity to discuss the completed game with the individual players.  Whereas it would be difficult to schedule multiple press interviews with each additional reporter, having one postgame interview allows for all reporters to be present and glean insights into a player’s mindset after a game.

What do NBA Players Discuss at a Postgame Interview?

Above all else, NBA players will typically discuss their thoughts on the recently completed game.  From specific plays, to calls by the coach, to an uncalled foul, NBA players will openly and honestly discuss their thoughts on the game.

But, perhaps even more importantly, players will discuss their own performance during the game at the postgame interview.  Many NBA players are often harshly judged and critiqued on their performances and the postgame interview provides them with a unique opportunity to not only defend their own performance, but to also provide an explanation on specific situations.

And lastly, NBA players will often discuss their thoughts on the team’s future after a game and during a postgame interview.  Whether regarding a race to secure a playoff berth or the team’s current standings in their division,  NBA players often take time during the postgame interview to discuss their thoughts on the team’s future and weigh in on their opinions to improve the team’s standings and opportunities.

Are Postgame Interviews Required?

For star NBA players, the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry, postgame interviews are typically required and are a part of their contracts.  The reason for this is that while many NBA players enjoy giving a postgame interview, particularly after a well-earned win, many others simply do not.

However, by mandating the postgame interview and making it a requirement, NBA players are oftentimes forced to give these interviews.  And while the interview can be somewhat cumbersome, it provides both fans and reporters a unique opportunity to hear from the players and their thoughts on the outcome of the game.