Jerry West had no patience for NBA stars who constantly "bit--" at refs: "They start bit–-ing from the time they get into the league"

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Jerry West had no patience for NBA stars who constantly "bit--" at refs: "They start bit–-ing from the time they get into the league" originally appeared on Basketball Network.
Over the years, we've heard all kinds of takes from former players on what the modern NBA lacks: too soft, too friendly, too flashy, not enough defense, the list goes on. But when a guy like Jerry West, the man who saw it firsthand as a player, then relived it all again as a heck of an executive, gives his two cents, it holds tremendous value.
And just before his passing, the man whose silhouette represents the league's logo made it clear there was one particular thing he couldn't stand about today's stars: the constant complaining, especially from the players who are just finding their footing in the big boys' league.
"Basketball players… They have their own world they live in, because they watched, they learned from the older players. They learned one thing that I wish they wouldn't have — they start bit–-ing from the time they get into the league," West said during his recent appearance on the "JAXXON Podcast."
"It is difficult to keep your concentration in the league. It's for the officials, I would throw anyone out of the game. If you don't respect me, how can I respect you?" the Logo added.
West said exactly what he saw
The legendary Hall of Famer didn't sugarcoat anything. This wasn't a grumpy old man ranting about how things were better back in his day. He just said it plainly as he saw things happen.
Before there were private jets, luxury recovery rooms, and all the mind can imagine and the money can buy, there were trailblazers like Jerry. He wasn't just the legend of the game; he set the path for others to follow. And he expected the same focus and discipline from the generations that came after him.
What West took issue with wasn't just the occasional reaction to a missed call. It was that same old boring thing where a player waves his hands, nagging and complaining. It's not just that it slows the game down or makes it less enjoyable to watch (and it sure does, whatever someone might say), but it diminishes the authority of the referee, and, in an instance, the whole league.The Luka Doncic example
There's no question the NBA has changed. And in many ways, for the better. The league is more global, more open-minded, and more player-empowered than ever before. But with that evolution come some unwanted things, like "bit—ing," as Mr. West mentioned.
Even some of the brightest stars today aren't immune to those habits. Take Luka Doncic, for example, one of the most gifted players in the league who is now leading the same Purple and Gold West suited up for and being at the top of the MVP ladders for multiple campaigns in a row.
But even with all that brilliance, he's become known for his constant back-and-forth dialogue with officials. His frustration with calls, or lack thereof, disrupts the game rhythm and often goes against his own team. And, most importantly, it's not the view to behold.
And to be fair, West wasn't calling out names. He didn't have to; those in question know very well. The trend is widespread enough that even casual fans can see it. And it does take away from the beauty of the game.
The respect should be one thing all the players should strive for, and it sure has to go both ways.This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.