There has been a debate amongst basketball fans whether the old school era of the NBA was better than today or not. For Denver Nuggets champion Michael Porter Jr., today’s iteration of the league stands out as he used Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo as his example.
The debate over which era of the NBA is superior—1990s or modern day—remains a hot topic among fans. Proponents of the 1990s often highlight the intense competition of that decade, showcasing iconic teams such as the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Boston Celtics. These teams combined star power with strong role players, creating a dynamic that captivated audiences.
One major contrast between the two eras is the style of play. The Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, relied heavily on his scoring ability, particularly in clutch moments. In contrast, the modern Golden State Warriors emphasize ball movement and three-point shooting, creating a more spread-out offensive approach. This shift has reshaped how teams strategize, with the three-point shot now central to gameplay.
Physicality is another area where the two eras diverge. The 1990s were known for their rugged play, where hard fouls were commonplace and players showcased their toughness. Today, the emphasis on player safety has resulted in a more lenient approach to fouls, leading to higher-scoring games but potentially less intensity on the court.
Denver Nuggets’ Michael Porter Jr. Says Modern NBA Is Better By Using Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo
Just recently, Porter appeared in an episode of The Ringers Off Guard podcast to discuss all things basketball. In an article written by Farbod Esnaashari for Sports Illustrated, the young Nuggets
“It’s better now,” Porter Jr. said. “If you take some of these players and put them then… Like, if you put Giannis [Antetokounmpo] in that era, he would’ve been the best player to ever tough a basketball.”
Just last season, Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points 11.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game. Although he only shot 27 percent from deep, the Bucks star made up for it by connecting 61 percent of his field goals.
Critics argue that the current game relies too much on individual talent and athleticism rather than basketball IQ. Overall, while both eras have their strengths, many fans of the 1990s appreciate the grit, passion, and competitive spirit that defined the league during that time, making it a golden era in the eyes of many. In any case, Antetokounmpo would have thrived in any era due to the sheer talent the Milwaukee Bucks star has in his body.
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