Dennis Schroder recently commented on the difference between European and American basketball, saying that European basketball focuses more on IQ, while the NBA is more entertainment-driven. This sparked a reaction from Kevin Durant, who mocked Schroder’s point on social media after Team USA won gold at the Paris Olympics. Schroder, in turn, criticized Durant, calling him mentally weak for responding to his comments.
“that is just being weak, you are that type of star and have to say something to a person like me”
Dennis Schroder calling KD weak for trolling him but inadvertently dissing himself at the same time lmao pic.twitter.com/Dx7El5Vmux
— A ✩ (@adryanashton) August 19, 2024
“They won, and then Kevin Durant tweeted, ‘High IQ and entertaining.’ For me, that’s just being weak. A star of his caliber should not feel the need to respond to someone like me, especially when I didn’t mean it negatively. It’s just an observation from both sides, and I didn’t appreciate it.”
Schroder emphasized that he respects all the great players in the NBA but felt Durant’s response was unnecessary. He noted that his original comments weren’t meant to be negative but were simply an observation of how European basketball differs from the NBA.
Schroder’s initial remarks highlighted the contrast between the two styles, pointing out that European basketball is more focused on strategy and coaching, with less emphasis on entertainment. He acknowledged the high level of play in countries like Serbia, Greece, Spain, France, and Germany.
Durant’s response on social media, however, led Schroder to double down on his stance, suggesting that Durant’s reaction revealed a weakness in his character. While Schroder tried to downplay the impact of his words, it was clear that the exchange added tension between the two players.
ENTERTAINMENT & IQ pic.twitter.com/2e9dopdrJi
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) August 11, 2024
This back-and-forth sets the stage for a potentially heated matchup if Schroder, expected to be the starting point guard for the Brooklyn Nets next season, faces Durant. Schroder, who averaged 17.3 points during Germany’s fourth-place finish at the Olympics, will likely be eager to prove himself on the court against Durant, who averaged 13.8 points during Team USA’s gold-medal run.
