In the last few seasons, Giannis Antetokounmpo has undoubtedly established himself as one of the top players in the NBA. He has led the Milwaukee Bucks in recent years, as fans witnessed his evolution into the league’s standout performers. Lately, though, he has become the subject of a debate about the best players in the Eastern Conference. But NBA legend Kevin Garnett isn’t convinced that he comes out on top.
In a recent episode of his podcast, Garnett and fellow Celtics legend Paul Pierce were divided over the best player in the East. When the latter asked who the best in the Eastern Conference was, Kevin Garnett had a different take.
You can’t say that with [Joel] Embiid over there, and with Jayson Tatum over there… He’s probably like the 4th best player in the East?… You taking Giannis over Tatum?
Kevin Garnett said
Paul Pierce: “Is Giannis the best player in the East?”
Kevin Garnett: “You can’t say that with [Joel] Embiid over there, and with Jayson Tatum over there… He’s probably like the 4th best player in the East?”
Agree or disagree? 🤔
(via @allthesmokeprod)pic.twitter.com/jbfl079aNK
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 26, 2024
In the view of Garnett, Antetokounmpo is nowhere close to being regarded as the best player in the Eastern Conference. With stars such as Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid there, he argues the Bucks star can’t be placed over them. Notwithstanding, the two-time MVP award winner is still widely regarded as one of the greatest power forwards of all time.
Known for his athleticism, speed and size, the “Greek Freak” as he’s fondly called, is undoubtedly a formidable player to opponents. Giannis Antetokounmpo once again showed his quality at the 2024 Olympics with Greece. However, despite his drive to win, he could only lead them up to the quarterfinal before being defeated by Germany.
Giannis Antetokounmpo tipped Victor Wembanyama to become GOAT of basketball
Within basketball circles, San Antonio Spurs prodigy Victor Wembanyama is well regarded as among the best of his generation. Not only has the young Frenchman shown great talent, but he has also carried the Spurs since his rookie season in 2023. This has led to praise from both fans and veterans alike.
Recently though, Giannis Antetokounmpo became the latest player to show admiration for Wemby. While talking about the French star in an interview via Boardroom, the 29-year-old rained praises on him.
He has the chance to be the best. Not at his age, not in Europe… but one of the best to ever play this game.
Giannis Antetokounmpo said
In an era where everything is recorded and uploaded, Wemby is doing things on an NBA court that no one has ever seen.
Off the court? By 2028, he will almost certainly embark on half a billion dollars in earnings backed by no state tax.
Mature for his age, and talented beyond… pic.twitter.com/VxoUYoQDPa
— Boardroom (@boardroom) August 6, 2024
For most basketball fans, Wembanyama is just getting started as his future is already looking bright. That appears to be a point of view that the Greek star shares. After winning NBA Rookie of the Year in his first season, it will be interesting to see how his career pans out.
