Casting What-Ifs
Kobe Bryant, Stephon Marbury, Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady, and Allen Iverson are discussed as alternatives to Ray Allen, whose maturity and size are ultimately defended.
In the discussion (9)
Approx. transcript time · 01:28:43Read transcript
- Kobe Bryant is identified as the original Jesus choice before he chose basketball training after a playoff loss. — Bill Simmons
- The panel divides over whether young Kobe had the acting depth and maturity to play Jesus.
- Kobe's surliness and story distance are argued both as advantages and drawbacks.
- Stephon Marbury reportedly declined to audition because he believed the story was about him. — Bill Simmons
- Kevin Garnett reportedly also resisted auditioning. — Bill Simmons
- Tracy McGrady reportedly auditioned but was judged too reserved. — Bill Simmons
- Conflicting accounts are acknowledged about whether Allen Iverson was sought or auditioned. — Bill Simmons
- Ray Allen's young appearance and greater size than his father help the casting work.
- Allen Iverson is considered the most fascinating unrealized version, though his reliability is questioned.