Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has challenged Nikola Jokic’s suggestion that NBA players should spend time competing in Europe, arguing that American players have little need to experience the EuroLeague.
Jokic recently discussed the differences between NBA and European basketball, emphasizing the importance of team success over individual statistics.
“In Europe and the national team, the most important thing is to win the game. I know, it sounds stupid. But you know, in this league, you can see certain players need to get their shots, need to get their points, whatever, stats. But in the national team and in Europe, the most important thing is to win the game, and I wish every player in the NBA would go play in Europe just to see how much pressure there is.”
Speaking on Gil’s Arena, Arenas responded by highlighting Team USA’s Olympic success, insisting that American players also understand how to prioritize winning.
“When he mentioned the national team, they don’t care about stats. Nor did the USA team. That’s how we beat y’all a– and France. We didn’t care about the stats. We won the gold. If that’s what you’re talking about.”
The former Washington Wizards guard then dismissed the idea that NBA stars could benefit from playing in Europe’s leading club competition.
“If you’re talking about the EuroLeague, we don’t need to play in the EuroLeague. Our trash, the ones who can’t make these rosters, go over there, and they’re the best player in the EuroLeague. The Americans are the best players in those countries.”
