Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce enjoyed an immense amount of success over the course of his lengthy career. As a result, he is in the unique position to really comment on the NBA’s all-time greats from a position of authority.
This week, Pierce spoke out about something of a touchy topic: who resides on his NBA All-Time top five list.
For obvious reasons matters of this nature are always a bit controversial. Guys’ personal bias tends to seep in whether they realize it or not, leading to a lot of back-and-forth regarding who deserves what and how.
The same thing happened with Pierce.
To start, his list largely speaks for itself:
My top 5 nba all time players magic Jordan lebron shaq and Kg when I think about top five I say these r the only player I dreamed about playing with most inspirational players ever
— Paul Pierce (@paulpierce34) March 18, 2022
Fans immediately zeroed in on one major omission from the list: Kobe Bryant.
of course he gon snub Mamba, especially when this @Money23Green scorcher is floating around again: https://t.co/QSLYEIZdwc
— Garfield Adams (@mrgarfieldadams) March 19, 2022
Not saying you’re wrong but you really think KG > Bird, Wilt, Kareem, Russell, and Kobe???
— Shaun (@Shaunlamb000) March 18, 2022
Why isn’t Kobe then? Doesn’t make sense at all
— Ant (@ADotsmoove) March 18, 2022
You wouldn’t say Kobe cz he crushed u several times cheers mate
— James (@James50800288) March 19, 2022
Stop hating on Kobe
— Michael Waller Jr (@HitManBlood754) March 18, 2022
Pierce’s decision to not include Bryant is obviously an interesting one, especially given all the battles the pair enjoyed back in their playing days.
That said – it’s difficult to argue the inclusion of any of those players except maybe Garnett. Whereas the rest were arguably the most dominant at their position in their particular heydays, Garnett, though extremely gifted, never reached the heights Tim Duncan did.
Yikes Baker Mayfield. https://t.co/GHkDFjxbfe
— Game 7 (@game7__) March 19, 2022
In any case, Pierce is likely unbothered by the backlash.
Whether he’s posting racy videos with his girlfriend or mocking present-day stars for their perceived failings – he always calls it how he sees it.
This was just the latest example of that.
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A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
