How Media Shapes Destinations of Deron Williams and Future Free Agents

Deron Williams' upcoming free-agent decision will ultimately depend on a number of variables.

Can the Brooklyn Nets field a roster that's up to Williams' standards? Will the allure of going home to Dallas become irresistible?

Of course, it's hard to imagine Williams isn't also persuaded by the media attention and celebrity awaiting him in Brooklyn. He might have noticed all the MVP chatter surrounding Chris Paul since his new start with the Los Angeles Clippers.

The New Jersey Nets haven't proven as sensational, but the Brooklyn Nets might be another story.

After visiting the new Barclays Center in April, Williams said he once again saw, "the vision" of what the Nets are looking to become.

That vision has a lot to do with the hype and symbolic significance of this team's rebirth. Williams could become a part of that turnaround and the epic story that comes with it. If Dwight Howard ever finds his way to the Nets, the story will get that much bigger.

There are basketball reasons to stay with the Nets to be sure. There's a chance Andrei Kirilenko could be Brooklyn bound, and the Nets' frontcourt will be anchored by a healthy Brook Lopez at worst (and a dominant Howard at best).

MarShon Brooks had a standout rookie season, and the midseason acquisition of Gerald Wallace instantly upgraded this club's hustle, rebounding and leadership.

But let's face it—going to Brooklyn is as much about the opportunity to become a larger-than-life star as anything else.

Just as the "Decision" took on a media life of its own, Williams' choice represents this offseason's defining moment. After five-and-a-half seasons under the radar in Utah, the 27-year-old is looking to play out his prime where someone's actually watching.

The same kinds of considerations made the New York Knicks what they are today, and surely played a role in the Clippers' acquisition of Chris Paul. Wherever Dwight Howard winds up, you can rest fairly assured it won't be in a small market.

For today's stars, success is about winning and making sure plenty of people are talking about it.

Sure, there are exceptions. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook look perfectly content in Oklahoma City. But for the next generation of stars who find themselves on losing or mediocre teams, the prospect of a change of scenery becomes a bit more appealing.

Should young studs like Brandon Jennings or Tyreke Evans find themselves on the move, don't be surprised if the destinations are glitzier than Milwaukee and Sacramento.

Beyond the appeal of increased exposure, the media loves nothing more than a move that makes for grand headlines.

Whatever winds up happening in Brooklyn, it will make plenty of those headlines—and there's a good chance Deron Williams will be in them.