LeBron James recently complimented Giannis Antetokounmpo, suggesting he would have been incredibly dominant in earlier eras of basketball, particularly the 1970s. While appreciative, Antetokounmpo questioned the fairness of such comparisons.
In an interview on `The Pat McAfee Show,` James speculated that Antetokounmpo could have scored `250 points` per game in the 1970s. Following the Bucks` defeat to the New York Knicks, Antetokounmpo addressed this praise with a humorous remark.
`I believe in the 70s, it would be closer to 275 points, not 250,` Antetokounmpo joked.
The Bucks` star player further explained his reluctance to compare different eras. He emphasized the significant evolution of basketball over the past five decades and how modern players benefit from more advanced knowledge and training methods.
`It`s a great compliment, but I don`t like comparing eras,` Antetokounmpo stated. `It`s not a fair comparison. If I had played in the 70s, my understanding of the game and training would have been limited to the practices and playing styles of that time. The game has progressed. We are now in 2020s, and our knowledge is far greater. You simply cannot compare one era to another.`
With the benefit of hindsight, it`s easy to imagine Antetokounmpo dominating in the 70s, especially considering the extensive training and preparation undertaken by today`s athletes. However, Antetokounmpo believes that without these modern advantages, he would have played similarly to the players of that era.
`I would probably play in a similar style to how they played in the 70s if I were playing then,` Antetokounmpo concluded.
Although he might not score 250 points every night, Antetokounmpo remains a dominant force in contemporary basketball. The two-time MVP and 2021 NBA champion is currently averaging impressive statistics this season: 30.2 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game.
Jasper Hawthorne