I still consider myself a fan of the NBA, but without a doubt the worst thing about the professional game is the flopping.  It’s to the point where it’s like watching a fucking soccer match.  Nobody really plays defense anymore; instead of trying to block a shot, you have 7’0″ centers undercutting 6’2″ guards and then sprawling backwards into the first couple of rows of seats.  It’s pathetic.

And the semi-circle that was added a few years back to designate the “no charge” zone?  That has actually made things worse, as it encourages defensive players to plant their heels on the edges of the line and then fall down once they feel contact.  Or a slight breeze.

It happens on offense, too, as players will do anything to try and sell a foul. Sometimes all it takes is a finger to send an offensive player to the ground.

Maybe it’s just been awhile and my memory is hazy, but I can’t imagine flopping was even half this bad just 10 years ago.  For me, it’s ruining the game and taking the athleticism and defense out of basketball.  Running to a spot before the ball-handler can reach it and then falling down upon contact isn’t defense, and it isn’t basketball.

After the jump, take a look at some of the more egregious offenses.

Ginobili is one of the best worst when it comes to this shit:

Robert Horry should be ashamed of himself:

Raja Bell gives Ginobili a taste of his own medicine:

Oh give me a fucking break:

Nice try, Chris Paul:

How can people pay to watch this shit?

How can NBA fans make fun of soccer?

Yeah, KG. You’re a real warrior.

Seriously, just make it a technical foul when a player flops. Clean this shit up already.