Dennis Rodman has once again taken a swing at Larry Bird, the renowned Boston Celtics player.
In a recent VladTV interview, Rodman was asked for his opinion on Gilbert Arenas’ statement that Bird could outscore NBA icon LeBron James in a one-on-one match. Refuting the three-time All-Star’s statement, Rodman claimed that Bird would not have been able to secure an NBA job if he played in the contemporary era, stating that his playing style was only suited to Boston during the 80s.
“If Larry Bird played in this era, I think he’d be in Europe,” he said. “He’d be somewhere over there. His game was fit for Boston at that time in the ’80s and stuff like that. Today’s world, oh hell no. There’s no way. I’m not downplaying him ’cause he’s a great player at that time, just like I was. But I’m saying, no, there’s no way.”
While acknowledging Bird’s greatness, Rodman emphasized that the NBA has evolved to a level where Bird’s style would no longer be viable. Rodman went on to suggest that the Finals MVP Nikola Jokic would be a better modern-era comparison than Bird, as Jokic has better skills and is more nimble.
“I think the kid from Denver is way better than (Bird),” Rodman said. “Oh my God, he’s slow as hell. He plays slow, but that guy got a game. I think he’s better than Larry Bird. In this day and age, yeah. I’m saying he can shoot that three like woosh, my God. So, wow. Compare him to Larry Bird, I think people would pick him.”
However, Rodman eventually acknowledged Bird’s accomplishments, noting that his earlier comments about Bird being overrated were not meant to be hurtful.
For all the latest breaking in sports entertainment news, be sure to follow TMSPN.com on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
