Bruce Bowen was the best small defender in the '00s. This past off-season, the Spurs traded him for Richard Jefferson of the Milwaukee Bucks. Rather than work his way into the Bucks' system, Bowen retired at age 38.
The Spurs would be better off with Bowen instead. Jefferson's offense has faded since his glory days with the Nets. He should give 10% of his NBA money to Jason Kidd for creating the illusion that he was a dangerous offensive x-factor. Jefferson's best defense has none of the intensity that Bowen brought to the court. No intimidation and no mind games.
Phil Jackson, an ex-Knick known for physical defense and his fondness of Dennis Rodman, called Bowen "Eddie Scissorhands". Bad Boy Pistons leader Isiah Thomas said that if he had to deal with Bowen's style of defense as a player, "I'd beat the shit out of somebody. Really, I would."
Even the refs threatened Bowen.
Bowen offered a simple explanation for his reputation. "I'm competitive. I don't like backing down to anybody. It's not arrogance. It's just something that grows out of the competition. Even if you are getting the best of me, I have to try and limit you in some way, shape or form."
Check out these ways, shapes & forms:
What other NBA player has utilized such a vast array of effective defensive techniques? 9 time 1st-team All NBA player Gary Payton looks astounded at the skillful move Bowen puts on the Sonics.
Bowen shares more on his defensive approach in this clip:
Bowen is currently one of the most thorough and entertaining analysts on ESPN. The playoffs won't be the same without him on the court. Ron Artest & Matt Barnes are good for raising the defensive intensity to a high level. Without Bowen, we don't have anyone raising it as high as this:
Bruce Bowen: 2010's Most Valuable Recent Retiree
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