Whenever the NBA Draft comes up, athleticism is a physical trait that scouts look at. Back in the 1980s, pure athletes could go far in the league, as they could play a role as transition scorers and elite defenders.
However, they would be quick to fade away alongside their athleticism. That was the difference for players of that time, as the superstars were the players who knew how to play without relying on athleticism. One of those stars was James Worthy , who was a superb athlete, but he knew that could not give him solid longevity.
"Most of that is you're dependent on your athletic ability, and when that runs out, that's when some guys' careers run out," Worthy said about how college prospects approach their NBA start. "I think the more you're in the league, the more you learn. Fortunately, I've been around some great players, and I've been able to play against some great players. I think prime time is around 27 to 33, and I hope to step it up even more so."
A good example of an athletic player growing
Whenever an elite athlete enters the NBA, they struggle with their feel for the game. Most stars have that, as they know how to play with better basketball IQ and composure, characteristics that embody a good player, according to LeBron James . Raw athletes don't have that because they rely on their physical capabilities and reflexes.
Basketball is natural for them with their athletic displays, but their intelligent approach to the game is not there. That is unsustainable for any player looking to play a long career, as they must learn how to play in every situation without just relying on their physical traits. Every great player who played for years became better when they relied on their basketball IQ.
That was Worthy's point because some draftees think they can cruise by using their athleticism. However, they do not recognize the NBA is filled with grown men who are as good athletes as they are or even better. The key to this is a veteran teaching the youngster how to be smarter, which Worthy got with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Earvin "Magic" Johnson on the Los Angeles Lakers roster.
The value of being a smart basketball player
Having a good feel for the game could propel a player into a strong role on a team. That is perfect for any role player because they want to affect the game well by making the right pass or play. Some athletes do not envision those contributions because they haven't developed a feel for the game.
As players mature, they start learning that, but it is up to top prospects to get it down pat quickly because the NBA moves fast. Without proper development, they can get lost in the shuffle, needing to be lucky to earn a role.
Related: "If he wasn't receiving the ball and scoring, he was useless" - When Jerry West saved Worthy from getting traded from the Lakers
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