Former NBA defensive specialist Raja Bell recently made an honest admission during his appearance on the 'Hoop Threads' podcast , reflecting on his chances of guarding modern-day stars like Joel Embiid. Known for his defensive prowess in his prime, Bell was famous for his ability to slow down even the most talented players, including Kobe Bryant. However, when asked about guarding Embiid, Bell humbly admitted that he would have no chance.
"Joel Embiid, I couldn't guard Joel Embiid. Any guard out there, I'm going to tell you I could guard them. Joel Embiid, I could not guard. Now, I got see LeBron and KD, and all those dude; even Steph. Like I couldn't guard Steph. By the time they came around, I was too old. But in my prime, I'd like to believe that I'll be able to guard some of them. Not well, but I'd give it a shot. Joel, I have no hope."
Bell, who stood 6'5" during his playing days, acknowledged that his physical limitations would prevent him from effectively guarding someone as dominant and skilled as Embiid. With Embiid standing at 7 feet tall and weighing around 280 pounds, the size and skill mismatch would have been insurmountable for Bell, who made his career as a perimeter defender.
Bell was one of the NBA's top defensive specialists during his 12-year career. He earned two All-Defensive First Team honors (2007, 2008) and was known for his fierce battles with stars like Kobe Bryant . Bell averaged 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting an impressive 40.6% from three-point range.
He made an NBA Finals appearance with the 76ers in 2001 and helped lead the Phoenix Suns to the Western Conference Finals in 2006. Bell's defensive tenacity and shooting made him a key contributor throughout his career.
Bell's candidness highlights the unique challenges posed by modern-day centers like Embiid, whose versatility and skill set transcend traditional big-man roles. Embiid, the 2023 NBA MVP, is known for his ability to dominate inside the paint while also being a threat from the perimeter. His footwork, strength, and scoring ability make him one of the most difficult players to defend in the league today.
While Bell acknowledged his defensive limitations against Embiid, he confidently expressed that he could still guard most of today's guards, including some of the league's top stars. He noted that although he faced players like LeBron James , Kevin Durant , and Stephen Curry later in his career when he was past his prime, he still believes he could have held his own against many of the top guards in today's game.
Bell’s comments reflect both humility and realism. He was known for his toughness and defensive IQ during his career, and while he could guard many elite perimeter players, facing a player like Embiid, who combines size, skill, and versatility, would have been a challenge beyond his defensive capabilities.
Bell’s reflections also highlight how the game has evolved, with modern centers like Embiid being able to do much more than traditional big men of previous eras. Embiid's dominance in the post, coupled with his ability to shoot and play on the perimeter, makes him a unique challenge for any defender — especially someone giving up size and weight like Bell.
Ultimately, Bell's admission underscores the greatness of Joel Embiid , who continues to set the standard for modern centers in the NBA, and the difficulty even the best defenders would have in trying to contain him.
Related: Andre Drummond Opens Up On Relationship With Joel Embiid: "I'm Gonna Push Him To Be Great"
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