Inadvertently Inspired by Kevin Garnett, Pacers Big Man Admits Idolizing Mavs Legend While Growing Up

Kevin Garnett and Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki are completely different players. While one was finessing his opponents with his ball-handling skill and his shooting ability, the other played with so much intensity and defensive prowess that he was tough to face on the court. They both have been extremely influential on the younger athletes.

One NBA player who has changed his views on himself over the years is Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers. He grew up being a fan of Dirk Nowitzki. But over the years, he has realized how his game has evolved into that of Kevin Garnett.

Kevin Garnett changed Myles Turner

When Myles Turner was young, he was a big fan of Dirk Nowitzki. Turner was also from Dallas, so seeing the Mavericks win the championship was huge for him.

Turner was able to shoot the ball well as a big man, which made him try to mold his game like Dirk. One day, he and his dad got into a debate. His dad told him that he had the ability to be like Kevin Garnett. But Turner, being a big fan of Nowitzki, told his dad that Dirk could shoot the three and could also do everything else on the floor, and that was what he wanted to be.

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But a few years later, as he grew older, he looked deeper into Kevin Garnett and studied how he played the game. This changed everything for Turner. It changed his whole perception. The intensity that Garnett played with really inspired Turner, and he wanted to evolve his play style.

During his pre-draft process, Turner got the chance to meet Garnett. KG later invited him to his house, and they were chilling and watching old highlights. That was when Garnett shared more wisdom with Turner and told him to never be afraid of the moment and to head straight towards every challenge.

Turner has the attributes of both Garnett and Dirk

Myles Turner is 6’11. He just had his best season in his eight-year NBA career. He averaged 18 ppg while shooting over 37% from the three. Turner has the shooting prowess of Dirk Nowitzki. At the same time, he is extremely good on the defensive end, like Garnett. He has averaged 2.3 blocks per game throughout his whole career.

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He is a player that any team would want on their side. That is why he is constantly in trade talks. But the Pacers have hope in the young talent, who is only 27 years old.

Along with Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers will be hoping for Turner to take a jump and try to be an All-Star this season.