The Memphis Grizzlies beat the LA Lakers 103-93 in the second game of their Western Conference first round playoffs series to even up the series last night, but it was Canadian Dillon Brooks who stole the show with his antics. The young Canadian had a bit in his teeth and was determined to get under NBA legend LeBron James's skin.
While history usually teaches us not to poke the bear, Brooks was undeterred, the Canadian faced down LeBron James like his equal and when tensions boiled over into a back-and-forth there was little sign of Brooks walking away from the 38-year-old legend.
However, the real gold came after when Dillon Brooks was speaking to reporters about his on-court antics. Whether it's a lack of respect for one of the greatest to ever do it or an underdog story we're not quite sure but it's hard not to have a sliver of admiration for how little Brooks cares.
I don't care, he's old
I poke bears. I don't respect no one till they come and give me 40.
I pride myself on defence and taking on any challenge thats on the board
Classic Dillon Brooks on his confrontation with LeBron James: “I don’t care. He’s old. … I poke bears. I don’t respect someone until he gives me 40.”
And Brooks had plenty more to say. pic.twitter.com/uWLONrubPZ— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) April 20, 2023
Dillon Brooks has conceded forty points just once this season and judging by that post-match interview, won't have much respect for LeBron James until he becomes the second to do it this season.
Somewhat perplexing considering Brooks has faced up against 38-year-young James thirteen times in his career and came away on top just three of those times. Taking that record into account, one would Imagine Brooks would be wise to check his confidence.
After all, James has been poked before, from Lance Stephenson to Paul Pierce many have tried to poke the bear and pray for his downfall, yet time and time again James emerged the victor.
The two clash again this Saturday for the third game of the series, with all eyes on how 'old' LeBron James reacts and whether Brooks' confidence pays off.
SEE ALSO: Sligo Captain Makes Epic Victory Speech After Historic Connacht U20 Title
