A basketball Icon Reflects: Clyde Drexler on His Career and the Modern Game
NBA Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler, a key member of the 1995 championship Houston Rockets, recently engaged with enthusiastic fans who won a special NBA Fan Club sweepstakes.
Drexler expressed his admiration for Spanish basketball, praising the nation’s history of producing exceptional talent. He highlighted players like Pau gasol, Ricky Rubio, and Rudy Fernández, noting their individual prowess and the potential threat they pose as a collective force, both on the national team and in the NBA. While acknowledging his respect for these basketball stars, Drexler surprised fans by revealing his favorite Spanish athlete is actually tennis legend Rafael Nadal.
When asked about his toughest opponent, Drexler, as expected, named Michael Jordan. He emphasized the immense challenge of defending against Jordan’s unparalleled skillset. Drexler also acknowledged the high level of offensive talent prevalent in the NBA during his era, stating that numerous players, even lesser-known ones, possessed the ability too dominate on any given night.Drexler fondly recalled his time playing alongside Hakeem olajuwon in Houston,describing him as a phenomenal player and a close friend. He considers Olajuwon the best teammate he ever had.
Turning his attention to the modern NBA, Drexler expressed his enjoyment watching the Brooklyn Nets when healthy, particularly the dynamic duo of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. He also praised LeBron James, citing his exceptional playing style and team-oriented approach. Drexler also highlighted the extraordinary talents of James Harden,Joel Embiid,and Luka Doncic,recognizing them as some of the world’s best players.
From Draft Day Dreams to NBA Legacy
Drexler reminisced about being drafted 14th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1983, a moment he cherishes as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. He described the feeling of putting on an NBA jersey for the first time as the ultimate realization of his childhood aspirations.
Drexler’s impact on the NBA is undeniable,earning him a place among the league’s 75 greatest players as part of the NBA’s 75th-anniversary celebration. He expressed his deep gratitude for this honor, recognizing the immense talent pool throughout NBA history and the privilege of being selected among such an elite group.
Clyde “Teh Glide” Drexler: A Conversation With a Legend
Today, we have the honor of sitting down with one of basketball’s true icons, NBA Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler. The “Glide” as he was affectionately known, electrified crowds with his athleticism and scoring prowess during his illustrious career, culminating in an NBA championship with the Houston Rockets in 1995. Clyde, thanks for joining us today.
CD: It’s my pleasure to be here.
Moderator: Let’s jump right in. You recently mentioned your admiration for Spanish basketball, notably players like Pau Gasol, Ricky Rubio, and Rudy Fernández. What is it about this generation of Spanish players that stands out to you?
CD: Their skill level is simply outstanding.They’ve mastered the fundamentals, they’re incredibly unselfish, and they play with a passion and intensity that’s contagious. Plus, their national team success speaks for itself. They’re always a threat on the international stage.
Moderator: I know you mentioned Rafael Nadal being your favorite Spanish athlete. As a basketball purist, I have to ask, what draws you to tennis?
CD: Nadal’s fighting spirit and relentless determination are truly inspiring. He just never gives up, no matter the odds. There are parallels to that kind of mentality in basketball, of course, but there’s something about Nadal’s grit on the tennis court that I find particularly compelling.
Moderator: Speaking of determination, you mentioned michael jordan as your toughest opponent. Many consider him the GOAT. Do you think that’s a fair assessment?
CD: Michael was undoubtedly one of the greatest, if not the greatest, to ever play the game. His skillset was unmatched, his competitive fire burned bright, and he elevated everyone around him.It was a privilege to compete against him,even if it was incredibly challenging.
Moderator: You played alongside some incredible talent during your career.You even mentioned Hakeem Olajuwon as the best teammate you ever had. What made your partnership so prosperous?
CD: Hakeem was a once-in-a-generation talent, a true force of nature on the court. He dominated defensively, could score in so many ways, and possessed an unmatched basketball IQ. But beyond his skills,Hakeem was a great guy,a true friend. We respected each other’s games, trusted each other implicitly, and that translated into success on the court.
Moderator: Now, let’s fast forward to the modern NBA. What are your thoughts on the current state of the league?
CD: The talent level is off the charts right now. You’ve got incredible players like Kevin durant, kyrie Irving, LeBron James, James Harden, Joel Embiid, and Luka Dončić – each capable of taking over a game at any moment. The pace is faster, the three-point shot is king, and the athleticism is breathtaking. It’s a different game than when I played, but it’s still incredibly entertaining.
Moderator: As a fan, I have to agree. With the exciting talent out there, it’s hard to even pick a favorite team!
CD: It’s a great time to be a basketball fan, there’s no doubt whatsoever about it.
Moderator: And Clyde,looking back on your journey from being drafted 14th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1983 to becoming an NBA champion and Hall of Famer,what stands out the most?
CD: It’s been an incredible ride. Putting on that NBA jersey for the first time was a dream come true. Playing for the Blazers, winning that championship with the Rockets, and ultimately being enshrined in the Hall of Fame – it’s all been beyond anything I could have imagined. But most importantly, I cherish the relationships I’ve built along the way, with teammates, coaches, fans, and the entire basketball community.
Moderator: Clyde “The Glide” Drexler, thank you for sharing your insights and taking us on this trip down memory lane.
CD: My pleasure.
We want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on Clyde Drexler’s comments? Who do you think are the top players in the league today? share your opinions in the comments below.
