We’re raising a generation of dummies” – Charles Barkley calls today’s players ‘dumb’ for being incapable of beating the zone defense
As the New Orleans Pelicans contained the Oklahoma City Thunder to close out the second quarter, enduring that the lead didn’t build over from 13 points, Charles Barkley didn’t hold back his criticism of modern-day players’ struggles against zone defense. ‘The Round Mound of Rebound’ bluntly labeled them as ‘dummies,’ suggesting that despite it being one of the simplest defensive coverages to counter, today’s players often find it challenging to navigate through.
“These NBA players are so dumb. The zone defense is the easiest defense in the world to play against. All you got to do is move the ball,” Barkley said. “Guys, when they see a zone, it’s like their brain locks up. Dude, move the ball.”
Charles on modern-day players finding it hard to counter zone defense
Barkley’s critique surfaced as the young Thunder squad struggled to assert dominance over the Brandon Ingram-led Pelicans, settling for lackluster shots. Despite holding a commanding 18-point lead midway in the second quarter, the Thunder witnessed their advantage dwindle to as little as eight points.
