By Nikos Varlas/ varlas@eurohoops.net
Welcome to one of many trademark columns introduced by Eurohoops that aims to do some creative thinking but also enjoy basketball from different perspectives! In this case, matching up and NOT comparing past players and even not so past ones.
Every player has their uniqueness – just like any person – and it’s not always necessary for them to be compared, especially when we consider how basketball has changed so much, even when we’re talking about two back-to-back decades.
Here, we’ll place side-by-side players that competed in the 2000s and players that we would classify as belonging in the 2010-2020 decade! Which means players of the current era and players that are just starting out or that we will enjoy watching when they are picked within the next six years!
In these match-ups we are going to be hosting super stars, stars, good players, but even role players and athletes of every sort. Because, the magic in looking for which player comes to mind from all those currently playing when you switch from the 2000-2010 decade, never gets old! You have every right to agree and of course to disagree with our choices. When you disagree, we are interested in hearing your own version of matching up one player with another. Have fun!
Sonny Weems (1986 1m.98 Forward)
One of the best forwards in the Euroleague, with a multidimensional game. He’s playing for the 4th season in this tournament and his averages are: 13.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.8 steals with 49.1% in two-point field goals and 37.3% in three-point field goals. This year he has increased his rebound average to 4.5 and his creative input by one digit with 3.8 assists. Weems possesses quality, athletic skill, a complete 1-on-1 game. What is he missing? The conquest of the Euroleague, something that his match-up in this column has achieved twice!
Like…
Anthony Parker (1975, 1m.98 Forward)
Definitely the fullest and most successful career in the Euroleague but also in the NBA. The difference is that CSSKA’s American has quite a few more years ahead of him. Take a look. They have the same height, they play in the same position, they even played in the same team in the NBA (Toronto Raptors). Parker, though, has conquered two Euroleague championships (2004,5) with Maccabi! Objectively, their styles are similar. Explosive athletic skills, excellent in 1-on-1 game, untouchable on the open court, great facilitators. Let’s take a look at Parker’s numbers, one of the best forwards that has ever played in Europe. Also in 4 seasons, his averages were: 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.6 steals with 55.9% in two-point field goals and 41.1% in three-point field goals.
Even their highlight numbers in the league are similar. Both have a record high 12 rebounds and 10 assists! It’s just that Parker has scored 33 points and Sonny 30! No one is identical, but Sonny Weems definitely brings to mind the Anthony Parker of the previous decade!