Charles Barkley believes Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook’s intensity is unparalleled: “We take this kid Giannis for granted”
Charles Barkley claimed he has never seen other players apart from Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook play hard in every game. The Hall of Famer held both former MVPs in high regard while talking about the intensity they bring to the court.
Here's what he said about this on "Inside the NBA":
"We take this kid Giannis for granted. Other than Russell Westbrook, I'm talking about the great players... I have never seen a player play hard every single night like them two guys."
Barkley believes even greats like Michael Jordan never played with as much intensity on both ends of the court in every game when his co-panelist Kenny Smith asked him about the Chicago Bulls legend.
"Even he [Jordan] did not play with that type of effort every single night. He did not."
Chuck: “We take this kid Giannis for granted. .... I’ve never seen two guys play as hard every night as Giannis and [Russell Westbrook].” https://t.co/cF8CKRgBgz
Barkley is renowned for his debatable takes, but this one is probably on the money. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook have never shied away from playing like role players by doing the little things. This is rare for players of their caliber, who have played at an MVP level for many years.
Apart from impacting the game via scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, making hustle plays has been a part of their identity on the court and something they seem to take immense pride in doing. It only adds to their legacy. Hall of Famers like Charles Barkley acknowledging this is a testament to their competitive mindset.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook produce solid performances for their respective team's on national TV
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook were in action for the Milwaukee Bucks and LA Lakers, respectively, on Tuesday's national TV schedule. Antetokounmpo's Bucks took on the Warriors, while Westbrook and the Lakers played against the Celtics.
Antetokounmpo bagged 30 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, leading his team to a 128-111 win at home. He didn't have the most efficient shooting nights, making only 34.6% of his shots. However, he ensured he was good enough in other departments.
Meanwhile, Westbrook tallied 20 points against the Celtics. Akin to Giannis, he also had a dismal shooting night as he shot 36.9% from the field. Westbrook made a significant impact as he grabbed a team-high 14 rebounds and made a team-high four blocks on the night.
Westbrook's contributions came in handy for the Lakers in the second half as they turned around a 20-point deficit and led by 13 in the final period. However, the Lakers couldn't hold on to their lead and lost the tie 122-118 in overtime.
Being able to cover up for inefficient games offensively makes Giannis Antetokounmpo and Russell Westbrook two of the toughest players to deal with for opposing teams. Young players aiming to make it to the NBA should note what Antetokounmpo and Westbrook bring to the table.
At the end of the day, it's all about making winning plays for your team, and there aren't many who could match up to their exploits in this regard.