Lu Dort: 'Me and (Dillon) Brooks Are the Best Defenders in the World'

Lu Dort was universally recognized as one of the best defenders in the NBA over the past season by both stars and coaches around the league. His stifling, physical style allows him to stick with both guards and wings, and even a few forwards, making him extremely versatile in Oklahoma City’s lineup.

That same lockdown defense has translated overseas, where Dort has been one of the best on-ball defenders internationally in FIBA play. For Team Canada, Dort’s role is similar to how he’s played on the Thunder. He takes the open looks, but his team is relying on him for effort and defense night in and night out.

After Wednesday’s win over Luka Doncic and Slovenia, Dort’s defense was once again a topic of discussion. Both he and Dillon Brooks switched onto Doncic for most of the game, causing the Mavericks star to shoot just 8-of-20 from the floor. Brooks, who signed a new deal with the Rockets this summer, is also a well-respected defender in the NBA.

The media asked Dort after the game if he felt like the best perimeter defender at the FIBA World Cup, and he responded with confidence.

"Me and Brooks are the best defenders in the world,” he said, shouting out his Canada teammate, too.

Lu Dort, when I asked him if he feels like the best perimeter defender at the FIBA World Cup: "Me and Brooks are the best defenders in the world." #FIBAWC #Canada #ThunderUp
— Christos Tsaltas (@Tsaltas46) September 7, 2023

Dort’s growing reputation has been earned through tough assignments every game in the NBA. He’s constantly guarding the other team’s best player, from Steph Curry to LeBron James. His impact is invaluable.

“I think he’s the best defender, with Lu Dort, the best perimeter defender in this competition,” Canada head coach Jordi Fernandez said about his defensive duo. “I think [Wednesday] it was a defensive clinic of leading with his chest, showing his hands, pressuring full court. And if you don’t think that way, you don’t like basketball.”

Canada will need Dort’s defense if the team advances to the finals against the United States. Team USA has a handful of guys that could easily explode offensively, and the Canadians have the defenders to counter it.

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