"That's where everything changes" - 6x Pro Bowler breaks down the gap between NBA and NFL athletes
Former defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Gerald McCoy compared NBA and NFL athletes. McCoy appeared as a guest on Gilbert Arenas' show, "Gil's Arena," on Tuesday and detailed the differences between the two sports.
There have been talks regarding which sport produces better athletes, basketball or football. Many have shared their thoughts and McCoy broke down the reason why his sport produces better athletes.
"Football players are the best athletes, basketball players are the most skilled," McCoy said.
Former NBA star Kenyon Martin countered that basketball players can perform well in skill-based football positions. However, McCoy explained his point and gave an example of why there's a difference in talent level between the sports.
"You know what else changes everything? The elements. You in a controlled climate. If I go to Green Bay, and it's snowing, they don't care. I still have to go do my job at the highest level with a snowstorm coming through. As long as there's no lightning, they don't want to hear it. That's the separation, that's where everything changes."
In the end, the six-time Pro Bowler still gave basketball stars credit for their talent.
"Skill-wise, what y'all do, y'all are the most skilled, period. But when you add a helmet, shoulder pads - changes everything. And the elements."
Which NBA players played football?
In the history of the NBA, there have been a handful of players who have played both basketball and football. The most notable player is LeBron James, who played football in high school before committing full-time to basketball.
Other players who have shown their talent on the field are Allen Iverson, Nate Robinson, Glen Davis, Charlie Ward, Rajon Rondo, Ben Wallace, Jermaine O'Neal, Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, Matt Harpring, David Noel, Pat Riley, John Havlicek, Danny Ainge, Matt Barnes, J.R. Smith, Jason Williams and Darrell Armstrong.
A few of the most recent players who showcased their on-field talents are Zion Williamson and Jalen Suggs.