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The NBA is a rich text, and that text has created a rich and indispensable intertext. If you live online—and you’re here, so you do—then you probably can’t imagine a world without Crying Jordan. Or Confused Nick Young. Or Alonzo Mourning Acceptance. The NBA has inspired more memes in common usage than any other sport, and perhaps more than any other entity besides the cat. Memes are integral to the way people communicate online, and NBA memes are woven into the rough fabric of internet discourse.
This week, The Ringer is asking the ultimate question: What is the best NBA meme? From a pool of 64 dank hoops memes, a champion will be crowned. Your votes will determine which meme is remembered as the GOAT. Democracy dies in darkness, and no one wants to get Crying Jordan’d. So turn off League Pass and get ready to text your group thread. It’s time to pick a winner.