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NBA Fantasy battle of the century -What if?

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 Here's the setup. It is pure fantasy, but how about a matchup between the superstars of today versus the old timers of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s - with all participants being at their peaks.


When I chose the five guys still playing, it was ironic that they were all international stars - namely Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo. That quintet will be found in the top-10 of most present NBA analysts. My, how the game has changed.

So, who do I have for my "Fogie Five"? Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson. I fully realize how many basketball fans never got to see Russell and Wilt play, but I saw plenty of it. The very first game I attended at the Old Boston Garden saw Russell and Chamberlain in a classic duel. 

Bill, Wilt and Larry would make for one powerhouse of a front court, and the backcourt duo of Magic and Jordan speaks for itself. Would the old guys be able to hang with - or even defeat - the players of today?

I believe that is a question that will never be answered. But I can see "Big Bill" guarding "Wemby" and being able to stay with the super-skilled Frenchman. Russell may be the most-athletic big man the Celtics have ever had.. But Wemby's size, speed and maneuverability could take a toll on the old guys.

Wilt's length and power would be tough for Jokic to handle, and Bird's craftiness would cause some problems for the "Greek Freak".  Jordan, I believe, would give the international quintet a few fits, as he did against his opponents during his tenure with the Bulls. And Magic's fast breaks and passing would shine.

So, who wins? Most of my readers will favor the modern fivesome, and I fully understand that viewpoint. But if those same fans felt that the old timers would get slaughtered, think again. The fantasy battle would be closer than most younger fans would envision.











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