Thanasis Antetokounmpo: “There is a lot of talent in Europe, the physical difference with the NBA is an obstacle”

A very interesting discussion was opened by Thanasis Antetokounmpo.

The Greek forward hosted on his “Thanalysis” podcast Denny AbdiyaWashington Wizards player, and talked with him about the differences between American and European basketball, analyzing the reasons why many talented Europeans fail to “shine” in the NBA.

Initially, Mr Thanasis highlighted how much talent there is on the old continent. “I tell people there is so much talent in Europe. For example, here in the NBA, if you’re out of the rotation, they have a plan for you, for the playoffs or something. But back in Europe, there’s a hierarchy, you just don’t play because you’re young a lot of times. Most of the time that is”he specifically said.

Then, the discussion moved to the issue of European players, and the reasons they often fail to perform in the NBA. “This is a great discussion. Number one is the body type, the physical difference. For example, here in the NBA, you don’t have the same bodies as in Europe. Let’s say you have a player like Tavares from Real Madrid. In Europe, you have a guy like Tavares. In the NBA, you have six or seven guys like him.”Thanasis specifically mentioned, to continue: “In Europe, you have few players who can play as a point forward. Clyburn, Sasha Wezenkov, Chris Singleton. You have certain guys who play in the “4” and can dribble and create. In the US, everyone can. There are no seats.”