The fact that this was such a big deal is really quite stupid but we all know how the NCAA is in terms of athletes having rather expensive merchandise. Fortunately for UCLA star Shabazz Muhammad the issue with his Gucci backpack was cleared up. Read more after the jump.
The UCLA freshman sported a black Gucci backpack following the Bruins’ 84-73 win over No. 6 Arizona, as initially noted in a story from Yahoo! Sports.
Muhammad, who missed the first three games of the season due to an NCAA investigation for impermissible benefits, caused a stir by wearing the designer backpack. The cheapest backpack on Gucci’s website has a retail price tag of $990.
Muhammad’s sister was not afraid to take to Twitter to share her thoughts on the controversy.
Via four tweets, Asia Muhammad wrote the following to Yahoo! Sports columnist Pat Forde:
“I read your condescending remark about [Shabazz] leaving with a Gucci backpack after beating Arizona. That was a birthday gift from myself (his sister) and his mother. I have the original receipt if you need to verify that. [Shabazz] doesn’t need anything from anyone except his family. I understand you’re a very distinguished writer, congrats on that. but you’re barking up the wrong tree on this one.”
I know teenagers with designer gear and it’s no big deal. The NCAA and that Yahoo sports columnist needs to relax a bit.
1K is not that deep. When you have as strong a chance to go to the next level as he appears to. I’m sure his family is buying him all kind of things..