In 2016, Brittney Griner came under fire from NBA fans for her wild claim. Known as a confident and one of the all-time WNBA greats, she made a challenge to one of the NBA’s most skilled centers, DeMarcus Cousins.
Going as far as calling him a little man, Griner had no doubts in her abilities. Reacting to the news, the former Sacramento Kings superstar said the 33-year-old was ‘delusional’ to think she could beat him. Now, Kelsey Plum, one of the brightest talents in the WNBA faced a similar question.
But she might weigh in some realistic tangibles to prove why she could best no NBA athlete.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Plum’s story in the WNBA can inspire many. As the first overall pick in 2017, a mountain of pressure fell on his shoulders. Dealing with injuries and mental health issues, it took a while for the 27-year-old to replicate her college success.
But when she did, it seemed now there is no stopping her. Averaging 20.2 points, second highest in the league this previous season, she also led the WNBA in three-pointers made.
Plum would be named in the All-Star game where she won the MVP honors pouring in 30 points. Moreover, she also made the All-WNBA first team for an exhilarating season.
Her success would continue in the postseason. Kelsey Plum was arguably on cloud nine when the Las Vegas Aces won their first title in franchise history. However, even when her confidence may be above the roof, the defending champion doesn’t feel she can beat any NBA talent, unlike Brittney Griner’s wild confession.
Kelsey Plum proves why Brittney Griner or any WNBA player can’t beat an NBA star
While on the Residency Podcast, the 27-year-old ACes superstar faced a similar question to that of Griner. The host put forward the question about which NBA star she sees herself beating one on one. Plum would back herself up for any skill or shooting-based challenge.
However, she believes the sheer athleticism of the NBA would overwhelm her.
Kelsey Plum said, “Maybe I can score but who am I gonna defend? These point guards are like 6’6″. I led the league in three-pointers made this year right. I’ve never shot off the rack before. So I went in and made like 3.”
Plum’s opinion might be justified given the difference between the WNBA and NBA games. The average height in the WNBA is around 6 feet tall, a whole 6 inches less than in the NBA.
Moreover, last season, the best offensive team in the regular season was the Aces with a 109.6 offensive rating. In terms of the NBA, that is nearly tied for the second-worst offense this season. However, the WNBA quarters are two minutes shorter than the NBA.
Brittney need to watch this
— RJ (@rjbinpaid) January 2, 2023
There’s legit some short (by NBA standards) guys in the league, I’m sure some of the taller ladies could beat them 1v1
— MrDifferenterThanU (@Dafootlova) January 3, 2023
W from but she could defo take Reggie Jackson
— Ball x Doncic (@ballsburner2) January 3, 2023
She’s completely right. In terms of things like shooting ability and skills it’s pretty even. The best free throw shooter is a woman. Size and athleticism is where the differences are
— Ben (@benbitzan_) January 3, 2023
She kept it real. One thing she has is one of the best shooting strokes
— Barvado (@Barvado_3000) January 3, 2023
See she a realist…brittany griner wildin talkin bout she can beat demarcus cousins😂😂😂😂😂big cap
— ¥¥SUPERSAIYANFLEMING¥¥ (@alaki_imyourdad) January 3, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With the evolution of the game, guards in the NBA enter with some crazy handles and freakish athleticism. It isn’t common to see the shortest players in the NB have crazy aerial prowess. In comparison, the WNBA relies more on skill with barely any athleticism on display.
Even looking at the Brittney Griner and Cousins matchup, the differences are clear as day. The seven-time WNBA All-Star stands at 6’8″ closing 210 pounds. She is arguably an interior force in the WNBA with quick feet.
However, Cousins comes in at 6’11” and nearly 290 pounds in 2016. Along with a soft touch and post skills, the former Kings center is arguably more explosive than Griner.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY:??When They Play the National Anthem??: WNBA Star Brittney Griner?s Homecoming Receives Another Cheeky Jibe From UFC Star
If there ever were a game, do you think the Phoenix Mercury center could shock the world? Let us know your views in the comments below.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT