There are many ways to get ahead of the competition in the NBA. While some players rely on their sheer talent to get the edge, others incorporate various tactics to achieve the results.
One tried-and-tested method of messing up any opponent’s rhythm is trash talk. Over the years, the NBA has seen a plethora of talented stars talk trash to their opponents to throw them off their game.
Zion on different trash-talkers in the NBA
New Orleans Pelicans superstar Zion Williamson is widely regarded as one of the most athletic players in the league. The three-time NBA All-Star recently opened up on various kinds of trash-talkers in the Association in an Instagram video via Overtime.
“There are different styles of trash-talking,” Williamson said. “You have Ant. Ant talks trash kind of directly. You have KD, but KD's trash-talking is more of like, 'Dude, I am just a better hooper' and how he goes about it is like I can't do nothing but respect it. And then you got somebody like… he never initiates it, but when someone does talk trash, he takes it to another gear, that would be Kyrie.”
Zion named Antony Edwards, Kevin Durant , and Kyrie Irving as three different types of trash-talkers. Although the three stars’ methods are different, they have produced results in their respective careers.
Ant’s overly flaunting method of talking trash was highlighted during the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Phoenix Suns series in the 2024 playoffs. Edwards directed the DX taunt at KD in Game 3. While many expected the two-time NBA champion to be offended, Durant just brushed it off .
Related: "He has 47 kids in the Philippines, and I'm the oldest one" - When Dennis Rodman broke down during his Hall of Fame speech
Williamson has transformed
Since being drafted into the NBA in 2019, Williamson’s fitness has been a huge concern for the Pelicans. The Duke product has failed to stay in good shape, resulting in various injuries in his NBA career.
However, the Duke product is seemingly on a mission for the 2024-25 NBA season. Ahead of the season, Zion reportedly aims to be at 272 pounds and has already reached 281 pounds, the lowest in his professional career.
NBA legend Carmelo Anthony applauded Williamson for attaining the best shape of his life. However, at the same time, Melo believes the hard part for Zion is to maintain this physique.
If the 6'6" power forward can maintain his current form, he could finally live up to the expectations of becoming the league's next superstar. However, until then, doubts about Williamson's commitment to staying on the court will linger among fans.
Related: "That's flagrantly disrespectful to the old guard" – Stephen A. Smith sounds off on Anthony Edwards' comments regarding Jordan's era
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