Draymond Green often is the first name that comes to NBA fans' minds when they think of current "villains" in the league.
However, the Warriors star revealed to reporters Wednesday night after the 123-116 Game 5 win over the Kings at Golden 1 Center that he doesn't actively try to be a bad guy in any way.
"No, I just be myself," Green said. "I don't go chasing after some villain title. Being a villain is no fun, it's not enjoyable. But I'm also never ducking any smoke.
"So, whether that's with a player, whether that's with a fan or a fan base, it is what it is. You got to take the good with the bad."
Green also shared that if players bask in their home fans' adulation, they also must learn to appreciate opposing fans' jeers.
"We pride ourselves in not being front-runners, so I knew for me, I couldn't love and appreciate the love and cheers that I got at Chase [Center], then come out here and fold because everyone is booing me from the time I came in the game," the four-time NBA champion said. "You got to take the good with the bad."
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors' defensive ace concluded by saying he didn't pay too much attention to the Kings crowd because he was "dialed in" on helping Golden State win. Green's focus showed as he dropped 21 points in a rare display of offensive brilliance, capped by a Dirk Nowitzki-esque fadeaway, to help the Warriors grab a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven first-round NBA playoff series.
RELATED: Williams: Draymond's Game 5 showing a 'masterclass' in huge win
It's clear being a villain isn't for everyone, and Green understands that. That's why he's making it known that any player wanting to turn himself into one should take praise while also not wilting before opposing crowds.