Even though he’s not playing for the Milwaukee Bucks anymore, point guard Jrue Holiday is still drawing raves for his defense. The latest comes from Indiana Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton after his team’s Game 1 loss to the Boston Celtics.
Holiday first came into the league as the Philadelphia 76ers 17th pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. After spending four years in the City of Brotherly Love, the point guard was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans for Nerlens Noel and a draft pick in 2013. From there, he rose up the ranks and became the team’s starting point guard who can both score and defend well on the other end of the court.
Although he played with Anthony Davis for most his stint in New Orleans, their version of the Pelicans already reached their ceiling. That being said, the front office decided to trade him to the Bucks in 2020 after playing seven seasons for NOLA.
With years of experience under his belt, Holiday proved to be the final piece for Milwaukee’s quest to win a ring. Thanks to his steady playmaking, reliable scoring, and incredible defense, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks were able to win their first ring in 50 years.
Former Milwaukee Bucks Guard Jrue Holiday Gets Massive Praise From Indiana Pacers Star Tyrese Haliburton
Although he’s now playing for the Boston Celtics, Holiday remains the same elite two-way guard who helped Milwaukee win a championship years ago. And as seen in a video posted by Noa Dalzell on X, even Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton acknowledges him as the NBA’s best defender.
The highest praise for Jrue Holiday from Tyrese Haliburton after tonight’s game:
“He’s the best defender in the NBA. He has been for a long time.”pic.twitter.com/TNscsW2htt
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzellNBA) May 22, 2024
Haliburton’s claim came from their first game against Boston in the Eastern Conference Finals. In that contest, Holiday posted 28 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and three steals to help the Celtics go home with the 133-128 Game 1 victory.
Even after all this time, Holiday still has what it takes to play at an elite level. If his time in Milwaukee is any indication, the crafty point guard can go far with the Celtics in the coming weeks.
For More Wisconsin Sports:
Follow us on Twitter at @WiSportsHeroics. Also, check out our Merchandise Here! Get 20% off with the code “WSH.” To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.
