2. Fan Outreach
What’s another helpful way for Keef to redeem himself in the eyes of the fans? Going above and beyond to directly connect with them. Morris may not be the most talkative guy, but his participation in any and all fan-related events is the best way to encourage the perception that he actually wants to be here.
Last season, the Morris twins went out and autographed memorabilia and took pictures with fans before their first home game following their verbal bashing of the home crowd. It did little to sway the public perception that had already been formed, but for those fans who were there and got their picture taken with the Morrii? It made a difference to them.
At the Suns’ recent scrimmage at the Madhouse on McDowell, Keef didn’t suit up due to a minor hip injury he sustained at training camp, but everyone in the arena learned that the jury is still out on what his fan support will look like to start the season:
The cheers fought hard to eventually win out, as if the fans were making a concerted effort to give their support. That’s encouraging, but this was a scrimmage with around 8,000 fans. What happens at the season opener at Talking Stick Resort Arena with around double that amount of people will be anyone’s guess.
Everyone in the NBA participates in charitable events, and the “NBA Cares” campaign is a great way to get the players involved in volunteer projects and other events that give back to the community. But Keef needs to go above and beyond this season to let the fans know he’s serious about making amends.
Here’s one minor, encouraging sign. On one of our recent articles, commenter “cdub” had this to say about their experience with Keef at the scrimmage: “I’ll forgive keiff only because he signed my ball on saturday even after the signature line cut off at me.”
That may seem like a minor thing. To some, it may even seem like common decency. But if Keef is able to reach out to as many fans as possible and provide that same kind of reaffirming experience, people should — and will — take notice.
Next: No. 1