Giannis or LeBron- Who was Better at the Age of 25?
Which of the two NBA superstars was a better player as a 25-year-old?
Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James are two of the most exciting players in the NBA. Although they are a decade apart in age, they have similar physical and multi-dimensional games that make them superstars. You can’t go wrong with either, but which player was better through their age-25 season?
The Case for Giannis: Antetokounmpo just turned 25 and is at the height of his powers with the Milwaukee Bucks. In 43 games, he is averaging 30 points, 12.9 rebounds and 5.6 assists so far this season. His current PER (Player Efficiency Rating- league average is 15) of 32.7 would shatter the NBA record of 31.82, which is held by the legendary Wilt Chamberlain. He also led the league in PER last year with 30.9 and has seen it go up each of the seven years he has been in the NBA.
Giannis is also an excellent defender, averaging over a steal and a block a game. Additionally, the power forward’s D-Rating (Defensive Rating- Estimate of number of points allowed per 100 possessions) is a league-leading 96. He uses his unique combination of incredible length and strength to bully and dominate opposing players. His athleticism is so off the charts that even if he makes a mistake, he has the physical tools…
