San Antonio Spurs: Reaction to Michael Jordan’s praise of Kawhi Leonard
By Rob Wolkenbrod
How did the San Antonio Spurs and NBA fans react to Michael Jordan calling Kawhi the best two-way player right now?
On Thursday, Michael Jordan’s praise of San Antonio Spurs star Kawhi Leonard caused a few heads to turn. He said Leonard is the “best two-way player right now,” when asked a question about the “Can Kawhi score on Kawhi?” Jordan brand commercial that was released in June.
This wasn’t Jordan’s first headline-worth comment of the week. He declared Kobe Bryant better than LeBron James, due to the difference in championship rings they have; Bryant has five (all with the Los Angeles Lakers) and James has three (two with the Miami Heat; one with the Cleveland Cavaliers).
Given the attention that’s given to one of the NBA all-time great’s words, plenty of NBA fans reacted to what His Heirness said. How did they react to it on Twitter?
Because he is https://t.co/mXx2WxnqyS
— jaylen. (@_jaytrent) August 3, 2017
Of course because Kawhi is a Jordan brand athlete https://t.co/eLT8SX8lhx
— ojolojolo (@Lesh____) August 3, 2017
I'd actually give this title to KD now https://t.co/WBW0ortRMq
— The Wald Is Silent (@Brizwald) August 3, 2017
? Goat recognizing my guy Kawhi? https://t.co/6Pz25CFCkn
— Brandy (@POLO_PrOtotype) August 3, 2017
1. Kawhi is Brand Jordan2. Kawhi has 1 ring3. It looks likely he won't get more than 3 https://t.co/cgydRxdNgz
— ☔️☔️#GOHEELS!!!!!! (@LeanerGreen) August 3, 2017
I completely agree https://t.co/05eY3ZTTlX
— Darrius (@LakeDaddy24) August 3, 2017
— 93 (@IAmNotDippa) August 3, 2017
And he’s not wrong https://t.co/79Y0uHPJAM
— darksquiat™ (@WAKEUPMRWESS) August 3, 2017
— Retro Boomin (@CourtneeHendrix) August 3, 2017
It's clear Jordan just hates Lebron, but Kawhi can definitely make a case. https://t.co/AiWLPfsU3I
— DanielCNoel (@DanielNoelD) August 3, 2017
So, the support isn’t all there for Jordan’s comments about Leonard. Whether it’s because he’s part of the Jordan brand or due to LeBron James’ presence, the disagreeing opinions vary.
Leonard’s been known for his defense since his days at San Diego State. He guards the perimeter like few others in the NBA, which makes the Spurs into a top defensive team. It’s his offensive game that lacked in the early parts of his career, before honing the jump shot and becoming a star player in the point-contribution department. The same goes for his distribution ability.
Next: 25 forgotten players that were on the Spurs
The debate will go on about who the best two-way player in the NBA. Whether it’s James, Leonard, Kevin Durant, or someone else, the opinions will vary, just like any other hot-button topic. Something like this could carry into offseason discussion, before disappearing once the 2017-18 season begins in October.