Why Draymond Green’s ‘angry Black man’ speech had Michael Wilbon ‘smiling’

The statement resonated with Wilbon, a veteran broadcaster and co-host of Pardon the Interruption, who shared his thoughts during Friday’s edition of ESPN’s Get Up.

“I kind of smiled when I heard Draymond say, ‘I’m not an angry Black man.’ I know exactly what he’s talking about. The portrayal of it,” Wilbon said. “I am often that person, have been that. I am older than Draymond – there are things that happened publicly and privately that make you angry… Arthur Ashe once said and wrote, ‘Being a Black man in America is like having a second full-time job.’”

Michael Wilbon sees deeper meaning in Draymond Green’s “angry Black man” comments

Wilbon continued by reflecting on how such feelings transcend generations and how Green’s frustration mirrors sentiments long shared by other Black men in the public spotlight.

“I remember when I heard [Ashe’s quote] thinking, ‘Oh my God, this is it.’ If you go back years, decades, generations, there were many more things to be angry about than I’ve ever had or Draymond ever has,” Wilbon said. “I like Draymond’s resentment of the characterization. Again, don’t know why, may not find out why. But do I find it a big deal? No, I don’t. This is the world.”

Green’s remarks, which came amid scrutiny over his on-court behavior, highlighted a broader conversation around race, identity, and public perception — themes that have followed his career. Known for his fiery competitiveness and leadership, Green has also drawn criticism for emotional outbursts and high-profile ejections. He has frequently voiced frustration with the way those incidents are framed.

The Warriors, now tied 1-1 with the Timberwolves, will return to Chase Center for Games 3 and 4. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. With Stephen Curry ruled out due to a hamstring injury, the team will continue relying on its veteran core, including Draymond Green, to set the tone.

Green’s remarks may have originated from frustration, but for Wilbon, they spoke to a deeper truth — one familiar to many, and far beyond the basketball court.