Alright, so maybe the scoreboard didn’t reflect his best efforts during the 2010 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game (as he admits in the video above). However, Anthony Kim holds himself to a high standard when it comes to his basketball skills, a product of his lifelong dedication and training.
Back in 2009, the 5’10” Kim engaged in a conversation with Golf Digest‘s Jaime Diaz—and Diaz’s observations hinted that the golfer’s heart might have been more invested in basketball than his chosen profession:
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Kim, a naturally gifted athlete who shone in basketball and enjoys watching football and mixed martial arts, openly admits that he finds golf somewhat unexciting. He frankly states that if he were 6-4, he would be pursuing a career in the NBA. When directly asked if he loves golf, his response, after a moment of hesitation, reveals a certain internal conflict.
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Kim himself stated, “Well, my passion lies in competition. Whether it’s on the golf course, the basketball court, or simply exchanging playful insults with my friends, especially those involved in other professional sports, I thrive on the banter and the competitive spirit. I certainly get some enjoyment from playing golf. But if I had to give it up, could I? The answer is yes.”
While attending the University of Oklahoma, Kim also frequently practiced with the university’s basketball team, according to a report by Golf.com’s Cameron Morfit.
Could he have realistically joined the NBA given his height? That’s a long shot. But, if he hadn’t dedicated himself to golf, could he have carved out a career in professional basketball elsewhere? That’s a much more plausible scenario.
