How Brook Lopez changed his game to fit the modern times

Brook Lopez knew he had to adjust or risk being ran out of the league.

© Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports

NBA big men don’t often stay too long in the league. The NBA can be a cutthroat league, and time can be merciless in its effects on players, especially those playing the center position. Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez has defied the odds to remain successful and remain relevant for over a decade.

A 15-year veteran who was drafted 10th overall back in 2008, Lopez has seen a lot of basketball in his day and recognized the fact that despite his solid numbers with the Brooklyn Nets, including an All-Star berth in 2013, he was going to be in and out of the league soon if he didn’t make adjustments.

Adapting to the NBA’s preferred style of play

Early on, the Stanford product made hay from the block, overpowering defenders with his unique blend of size, agility, and the softest of touches from both the post and the perimeter. But as time marched on, Lopez began to understand that in order to remain productive and stay in the league, he needed to expand his offensive game beyond just scoring down low.

He began to take more shots from behind the arc while still being able to mix it up inside when needed. This ability to blend finesse and power gave him the ability to adapt his game to any situation, no matter his opponent.

“I’ve seen a lot of different things,” said Lopez. “I’ve changed my game a few times before, and if I have to for some reason in the future, I’ll do it again. I’ll find a way.”

A resurgent year with the Bucks

After playing just 13 games last season due to a back issue, Lopez bounced right back and had a career year, averaging 15.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and a career-high 2.5 blocks. He was the anchor of a suffocating Bucks defense that led to the team finishing with the NBA’s best record.

“I just wanted to figure out what I could have been better at—what I could have done better to help the team,” shared Lopez. “I think it’s having that realization of what you need to do to stay in the league, stay effective, stay a person who can change games.”