Would be curious if there is anyone in sports, particularly basketball, whom you used to dislike a lot, and have come to like them. Either because you have given the person more time, or because the person has evolved, improved, etc.
One guy for me comes to mind: Stephen A. Smith. I could not stand him 5 years ago. But I feel he has really improved a lot as an analyst and TV personality. He is still often silly and over the top. But piercing through the side show performance, he is actually quite astute and thoughtful in his opinions. And fair.
Who comes to mind for you?