Embattled Toronto mayor Rob Ford is all about accepting a friendly bet proposed by Brooklyn Borough president Eric Adams on the first-round NBA playoff series between the Nets and Raptors — as long as alcohol isn’t involved.
Yes, you read that correctly.
The challenge comes just days after Raptors general manager Masai Ujiri shouted “F— Brooklyn!” during a pep rally before the Raptors dropped Game 1 to the Nets 94-87. The profanity prompted Adams to release a press release about the Brooklyn-Toronto rivalry, with the statement including a wager with Ford, the Toronto Sun reports.
“Rather than mess with verbal barbs,” Adams stated, “I’m willing to send up North some of Brooklyn’s best if the Raptors can prevail, perhaps a six-pack from Brooklyn Brewery or a CD from the First Family of hip-hop. The ball is in Mayor Ford’s court to meet the challenge.”
Ford, whose admitted drug and alcohol use have put him at the center of many scandals, was hesitant to agree to the bet on those specific terms. But he did suggest some amendments to the deal.
“I don’t want it involving alcohol because I know it will get spun,” Ford laughed to the Toronto Sun. So in lieu of beer, “I will offer up some Blue Jays tickets,” Ford declared. “Or (Canadian football team) Argos.”
Adams formally wrote to Ford on Tuesday, and according to a letter obtained by Business Insider, the winner of the altered bet will receive either some music from Jay Z or Drake, most likely.
“I am pleased to learn that you are interested in this opportunity, so I would like to offer you the terms of the winner receiving a CD of our favorite local artist,” Mr. Adams wrote. “Best of luck to both teams (and go Nets!).”
The Nets currently lead the best-of-seven series, 1-0, with tip-off for Game 2 scheduled for Tuesday night.
Photo via Twitter/@reporterdonpeat
