After several years spent with the Grit ‘N’ Grind Grizzlies, my recent travels around the NBA have led me to question whether the league is undervaluing grit and effort. Are we, as a basketball community, too focused on players with size and athletic potential, overlooking the hard-working hustlers who are delivering tangible results right now?
These gritty players—often labeled gamers or grinders—are currently shining, many of whom were significantly underrated coming out of college.
Dillon Brooks: A Gritty Impact
Dillon Brooks serves as a prime example of this trend. Selected 45th overall in 2017, he has become a transformative presence for the Phoenix Suns in his seventh season. Interestingly, the Grizzlies chose Ivan Rabb over him at pick 35, showcasing just how undervalued Brooks was at the time. The Detroit Pistons have also built a strong roster based on the contributions of gritty players, propelling them to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Spotlight on Emerging Talent
Recent conversations with players embodying this hardworking ethos revealed a common theme. With a lighter schedule during the NBA Cup week, it was an opportune moment to share these findings.
Jamal Shead: Relentless Defense
Point guard Jamal Shead of Toronto, standing at 6-foot-1, earned accolades as Defensive Player of the Year across two conferences, yet was selected 45th in the 2024 draft. Despite injuries opening the door for more playing time, Shead showcased his defensive prowess, making 12 steals in just five games. He expresses pride in Houston’s emphasis on defense, saying it’s about maintaining intensity.
Miles “Deuce” McBride: Proving Doubters Wrong
In New York, Miles McBride is thriving, receiving chants from fans as he excels at both defense and shooting, currently averaging 44.4% from beyond the arc. After being a second-round pick in 2021, he focused on improving his craft and has now emerged as a vital contributor for the Knicks, showcasing a strong defensive mindset learned from his high school football days.
Exploring More Unsung Heroes
Zach Edey of Memphis is another example, leveraging his size and newfound agility to become a force on the court, significantly enhancing the Grizzlies’ defense. Additionally, players like Peyton Watson and Jordan Goodwin are carving their niches through relentless effort and attention to detail, whether through elite rebounding or shutting down opposition stars.
Conclusion
With players like Jabari Walker and Moussa Diabaté showcasing their grit and versatility, the league is witnessing the value of hard work and determination transcend mere physical attributes. These players may not always grab headlines, but their contributions are pivotal to their teams’ successes, challenging the perception of what it means to be a valuable NBA player.
