Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert has been facing criticism and mockery from some fans and analysts after missing a playoff game to be present for the birth of his child. However, the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year remains unapologetic about his decision.
Rudy Gobert’s Timberwolves are currently trailing the Dallas Mavericks 3-0 in the Western Conference Finals series. While some questioned if the All-Star big man should have put his team first and played in the crucial Game 3 Gobert stood by his choice to be with his wife and newborn baby.
“This is one thing I decided I was never going to miss the birth of my child” Gobert said defiantly. “I love this game more than anything but being there for that moment was more important.”
The 7-foot Frenchman added “Everyone in our locker room understands how special that was and supported me being there for my wife and our first baby.”
While a small number of fans voiced disappointment at Rudy Gobert’s absence from the Game 3 lineup the overwhelming majority celebrated the joyous occasion and defended the big man’s decision to be present for such a momentous life event.
“This is one of the most beautiful times in any family’s life” said one fan on social media. “Of course he should have been there to welcome his newborn into the world.”
Basketball experts praised Gobert’s stance as well, commending his perspective on properly prioritizing family over team obligations during such an emotionally charged playoff series.
“I have zero issue with Rudy Gobert taking a personal day for one of life’s most amazing moments” said one analyst. “The birth of a child is something you can never get back and it’s a memory you’ll cherish forever alongside your loved ones.”
The Timberwolves ultimately fell to Dallas in Game 3 without their All-Star center making it an uphill battle to catch up to Luka Doncic and company. But Gobert remains undeterred about his decision to be by his wife’s side saying he would make the same choice again without hesitation.
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“This was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life to be there as my child entered the world,” Gobert told reporters. “I’ll never get that moment back and I have zero regrets about my decision.”
The big man and his wife were all smiling cradling their newborn in the hospital basking in the life-changing moment as they brought their baby home for the very first time.
While some doubted Rudy Gobert’s priorities the new father seemed at peace with his choice embracing the precious memories alongside his loved ones. With his team now facing a 3-0 deficit the big man’s focus has turned to trying to mount an improbable comeback when the series resumes.