Richard Sherman’s close-up in New York began with a front-row seat in Brooklyn.
The Seahawks cornerback, who became a national talking point for his postgame rant in praise of himself and critical of 49ers receiver Michael Crabtree after making a game-saving tip in the final seconds of the NFC title game, took in Monday night’s Nets-Raptors game at Barclays Center from a courtside seat alongside starting inside linebacker Bobby Wagner, whom Sherman credited with getting the seats.
“It’s been really fun,” Sherman said when asked about the beginning of Super Bowl week in an interview with YES. “I think everybody’s enjoyed the moment. Everybody’s locked in, understanding we have a game at the end of the week, but still enjoying the moment, embracing all the media and everything in this moment.
“I think it’s going to be a fun game.”
Jason Terry — a Seattle native and huge Seahawks fan — came over and gave Sherman a hug before the start of the second quarter, and former Giants defensive end Michael Strahan also came over to chat during a break in the action.
While the two Seahawks defensive players were sitting courtside, several members of the Seattle offense took in the game from a luxury suite, after quarterback Russell Wilson chose coming to the game as a team-bonding activity.
“It’s great energy, it’s a great stadium, it’s a great team,” Sherman said. “I’m happy I’m getting a chance to watch them. It’s been a good game so far, and I’m getting a chance to watch the legends. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Jason Terry, I’m a huge fan.”