SGA is closer to MJ than ANT.

SGA’s “potential” is closer to MJ, than ANT. The media argues ANT is similar to MJ, going as far as to joke that he’s his long lost son. But I think SGA is the better player comp.

MJ was an explosive above-the-rim 2-way mid-range maestro. FWIW, NBA 2K classifies him as a 2-Way 3-Level Playmaker.

SGA is not an explosive above the rim, but he is still ultra athletic. He’s a 2-way mid range maestro as well. FWIW, NBA 2K classifies him as a 2-Way 3-Level Playmaker.

ANT is an explosive 2-Way scorer, but he lacks a great mid-range game and he’s not necessarily a playmaker. FWIW, NBA 2K classifies him as a 2-Way Walking Bucket.

As for measurables, MJ was always listed at 6’6” with a 6’11” wingspan. Other accounts indicate he was closer to 6’4”. He weighed 195lbs. His vertical was a whopping 48”.

*Sidebar: Back then, they measured players in shoes, whereas today, they measure them barefoot. But the Olympics measure players barefoot, and he was reportedly 6’4 1/2” at that time. The eye test also supports this.

SGA is 6’6” with a 7’ wingspan. He weighs 195lbs. His vertical is 36”.

ANT is 6’4” with a 6’9” wingspan. He weighs 225lbs. His vertical is 41.5”.

For me, as a 90s kid who grew up watching the NBA, SGA reminds me of a young MJ without the explosiveness above the rim, but he has similar kinetics and grace as he floats around the court. ANT reminds me of young D-Wade prior to his knee injuries. D-Wade is 6’4”, 220lbs, with a 6’11” wingspan.

Anyway, I enjoy watching the Thunder because SGA reminds me so much of a young MJ. Sweet, sweet nostalgia. Now, can we bring back NBA on NBC. Queue Roundball Rock!