Former NBA role player Andrew Rivers sparked controversy by stating that basketball is harder to play than football, claiming that NFL players only need to catch and run, which is not complex. This led to criticism from NFL players such as J.J. Watt, Mike Davis, and Matt Leinart. In response to Rivers’ comments, former NFL player Devin Funchess became the first player to sign and play with a professional basketball team, joining the Caribbean Storm Llaneros of the Professional Colombia Basketball league. Funchess retired from the NFL in 2022 and made his professional basketball debut in 2023, showing his versatility as an athlete.
Devin Funchess, who spent five seasons in the NFL playing for teams like the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, and Green Bay Packers, decided to pursue a career in basketball after his football career ended. Despite facing challenges such as breaking his collarbone and opting out due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Funchess remained determined to transition to basketball. He signed with the Caribbean Storm Llaneros, marking him as the first former NFL player to sign a professional basketball contract. Funchess will need to work his way through the international leagues to potentially reach the NBA, but he has already made significant progress by playing professionally.
Funchess’ move from the NFL to professional basketball highlights his athleticism and determination to succeed in a new sport. He showcased his skills and versatility as an athlete by transitioning from football to basketball, marking a significant achievement in his career. This unique career transition has caught the attention of sports fans and analysts who are eager to see how Funchess will continue to develop his basketball skills and potentially move up to higher professional leagues in the future.
The signing of Devin Funchess by the Caribbean Storm Llaneros of the Professional Colombia Basketball league reflects the increasing crossover of athletes between different sports. Funchess’ decision to pursue basketball after a successful NFL career demonstrates the opportunities and challenges faced by athletes looking to transition to new sports. As more athletes explore diverse sporting opportunities, the sports world continues to evolve with players like Funchess breaking traditional boundaries and pursuing unconventional career paths.
Overall, the controversy sparked by Andrew Rivers’ comments on the difficulty of basketball versus football led to unexpected developments in the sports world, including Funchess’ historic signing with a professional basketball team. Funchess’ journey from the NFL to basketball showcases his determination and versatility as an athlete, inspiring others to pursue their passions and explore new opportunities in sports. As Funchess continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities in professional basketball, his story serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability needed to succeed in the competitive world of sports.
