'He still takes a beating… he’s cut up like I was' - Alonzo Mourning names Giannis Antetokounmpo as a player who could thrive in the 90s

Originally posted on Basketball Network
By Yakshpat Bhargava | Last updated Nov 24, 2024 9:32 AM ET

One consistent critique from old-school big men about today's NBA is the perceived lack of physicality, where referees are quick to call fouls for minimal contact. This dynamic has encouraged modern-day centers to exaggerate contact to draw fouls, fueling the widespread belief that the current generation of big men couldn't handle the rugged style of the 1990s. However, according to Alonzo Mourning, one player who could not only survive but thrive in that era is Giannis Antetokounmpo, as he praised "The Greek Freak" for his fearlessness in getting beat up on the court.

Mourning believes Giannis could stand his ground in the '90s

Having shot 28.6 percent from the three-point line in his career, Giannis also lacks the threat to knock consistent fadeaway jumpers or mid-rangers like Dirk Nowitzki. As a result, the two-time MVP compensates with his extraordinary physicality to dominate the paint. His game revolves around strength as evidenced by him attempting 13.4 two-pointers out of his 15.7 field goal attempts per game.

This relentless drive to attack the rim, even knowing it will take a physical toll, is what Mourning highlighted on 'The Big Podcast with Shaq.' Moreover, "Zo" noted Giannis' willingness to endure punishment and keep pushing to play the same way making him an ideal big man who could suit the gritty playing style of the '90s.

"Maybe Joker (but) you know what, Giannis! I think just how hard he goes. He still takes a beating though," Mourning said. "Giannis is so… he's cut up like I was. So, yeah I can see that."

Mourning says bigs were required to be muscular in the 90s

Furthermore, the seven-time All-Star also pointed out that in the modern-day NBA, there's little emphasis on big men needing to bulk up, as the game now prioritizes three-point shooting. In contrast, the centers of his era faced competitors who would physically dominate them if they lacked muscle. Thus, the reliance on outside shooting in the modern game has shifted the focus away from interior physicality.

"I'll tell you what. Terry Cummings, Oak, Anthony Mason… You let them boys lay wood on you, they take you out of the air… Rick Mahorn, the list goes on," Mourning added. "We don't have that no more… The guys in this era have not felt physicality until they felt those guys."

That being said, the difference between eras lies in how the game is played and the role of big men. While the physical demands of the '90s NBA are often romanticized, players like Giannis demonstrate that the combination of strength, skill, and mental toughness can transcend generational differences.

This article first appeared on Basketball Network and was syndicated with permission.

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