In basketball, scoring often steals the spotlight, but there’s an art to defense that truly changes the game.
While some players dazzle with points, others leave their mark by shutting down opponents.
Among these defensive maestros, one Golden State Warriors star has earned his place in basketball history, according to a veteran ESPN analyst.
That player is Draymond Green, whose relentless energy and defensive prowess have become legendary.
“I marvel at [Draymond Green]. I’m in awe of him as a player and I think he’s one of the best defenders that’s ever lived. … He’s one of the players I’ve respected most in my time covering the game. It’s a joy to watch,” Jay Bilas said, via 95.7 The Game.
“I marvel at [Draymond Green]. I’m in awe of him as a player and I think he’s one of the best defenders that’s ever lived…He’s one of the players I’ve respected most in my time covering the game. It’s a joy to watch.”
– @JayBilas on @WillardAndDibs.
🎧 https://t.co/vtSfY6HGKa pic.twitter.com/MnnJF3WkMU
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) November 8, 2024
The Warriors’ defensive anchor has set his sights on a specific goal: claiming his second Defensive Player of the Year award.
Despite his reputation as one of the league’s elite defenders, Green’s trophy case houses just one DPOY award from the 2016-17 season.
His unique ability to guard all five positions has been crucial to Golden State’s success, but he’s hungry for more recognition.
That determination has only intensified after being left off last year’s all-defensive team.
Though he understood the omission was largely due to missed games, it still stung.
Now, he’s channeling that frustration into motivation, focusing on strengthening what is likely to be a Hall of Fame legacy.
This drive to excel is precisely what makes Green fascinating to watch.
His defensive mastery might not fill highlight reels like 3-pointers or dunks, but his impact on the game is undeniable.
NEXT:
Brian Windhorst Reveals What Has Been Fascinating About Warriors This Season
