Gilbert Arenas Says Nikola Jokic And Giannis Antetokounmpo Are Not Superstars

Arenas began by distinguishing between All-Stars and Stars, emphasizing that being an All-Star does not automatically elevate a player to superstar status. He questioned whether players like Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Donovan Mitchell should be considered stars or All-Stars, challenging the traditional classification.

"Joker is not even a true star yet. Giannis is not. A superstar has nothing to do with the basketball itself."

Specifically addressing Jokic and Giannis, Arenas argued that they are not megastars or superstars. He presented his criteria, referencing the "HOV lane" as the superstar category, suggesting that only a select few players, such as LeBron James and Stephen Curry, occupy this lane.

The former NBA player also highlighted the importance of intangibles, personality, and market size in determining superstar status. He cited examples like Magic Johnson noting that personality and market influence can contribute to a player's superstar aura.

Arenas engaged in a hypothetical scenario, questioning whether he would have achieved superstar status if he played for a larger market like the Lakers. He asserted that he possessed the personality and charisma but acknowledged the impact of external factors.

The discussion expanded to include players like Ja Morant and Jayson Tatum, with Arenas categorizing them as superstars based on their lane, which represents their level of influence and popularity.

Arenas further emphasized the distinction between superstars and megastars, arguing that the latter category comprises players like LeBron James and Michael Jordan, who possess a unique charisma and marketability that transcend on-court performance.

The conversation delved into the significance of a player's impact on and off the court, with Arenas challenging the conventional understanding of superstars in the NBA. Ultimately, he asserted that the classification depends on a combination of factors, including personality, market size, and overall influence.

As the NBA landscape evolves, discussions around player status and superstar criteria continue to spark debates and differing opinions within the basketball community.

Who Are The Superstars And Stars In The NBA?

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, the distinction between superstars and stars remains a subject of fervent discussion. According to one perspective, superstars are those who transcend the game of basketball, leaving an indelible mark on the sport's history. Players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry are cited as prime examples. These luminaries possess an aura that sets them apart, elevating them to a status beyond mere on-court prowess.

Stars, on the other hand, are characterized as players who excel at the All-Star level, contributing significantly to their teams' success. While they may not reach the transcendent heights of superstars, they are essential components in the league's competitive landscape. Stars compete for championships and command sizable fan followings, although their influence may not extend as far as that of superstars.

In the current NBA, I have proposed a tiered classification , delineating the hierarchy of superstars and stars:

Tier 1 consists of the true superstars, a select group featuring LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. These players stand atop the league, embodying the pinnacle of individual and team success.

Tier 2 introduces a broader category of superstars, encompassing talents like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic, Jayson Tatum, and Ja Morant. While not placed in the highest echelon, they are undeniably among the league's elite.

Tier 3 designates players as All-Stars, recognizing their excellence and impact on the game. Figures such as Jaylen Brown, Donovan Mitchell, Jimmy Butler, and Kyrie Irving populate this tier, consistently performing at a high level.

Tier 4 encompasses stars like Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, players who contribute significantly to their teams but may not carry the same level of individual recognition as those in the higher tiers.

Ultimately, the delineation between superstars and stars is subjective, with factors like individual brilliance, team success, and off-court influence contributing to the nuanced understanding of a player's status in the NBA hierarchy.