Bill Simmons Compares Lionel Messi's Low Center of Gravity to Jalen Brunson's Elite Play

Jalen Brunson's impressive play on the court has drawn comparisons to soccer legend Lionel Messi, with Bill Simmons highlighting their shared physical trait of a low center of gravity.

What happened?

On Sunday, Messi's Argentina side fell short in the World Cup final against Spain, but the 39-year-old's campaign was a remarkable one. He registered eight goals and four assists, carrying his team to the final and showcasing his incredible strength and agility.

Why it matters for Jalen Brunson

Brunson, the NBA Finals MVP, has a similar stocky build and ability to play low to the ground, allowing him to get to the hoop at will despite his height disadvantage. This trait has made him one of the toughest defensive tasks in the league.

What comes next?

Simmons believes that Messi's low center of gravity is a key factor in his ability to play at an elite level, even at 39 years old. He compared Messi's play to Brunson's, saying that the soccer legend's ability to carry defenders on his back and keep the ball is reminiscent of Brunson's own play.

In an interview on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Simmons said: "It seems conceivable to me that he could play at 43 in the 2030 World Cup, cause one thing watching him, for some reason it reminds me of Jalen Brunson, these guys that are low to the ground but strong."

Simmons pointed to a specific play where Messi ran through the England midfield, shaking off challenges from Harry Kane and Djed Spence before winning a well-earned foul in the opposition half. He noted that Messi's ability to play low to the ground and carry defenders on his back is a testament to his strength and agility.

Despite being one of the smaller players on the pitch, Messi is as strong as they come on the ball. This is the same reason Brunson has become one of the NBA's premier offensive players despite his modest stature.

Lionel Messi's remarkable World Cup run

Messi's campaign in the World Cup was a legendary one, and it's hard to imagine him not playing in the next edition. However, Simmons believes that Messi should consider retiring on a high note, rather than playing until he can't.

As a fan, you want to see the greats finish on a high, and Messi's legacy would be tarnished if he were to play until he can't. Better to go out at the top, with a World Cup title under his belt.

The comparison between Messi and Brunson highlights the importance of physicality and strength in both soccer and basketball. While Messi's low center of gravity is a key factor in his ability to play at an elite level, Brunson's own play is a testament to his strength and agility on the court.

In the end, it's clear that both Messi and Brunson are elite athletes who continue to inspire and awe fans with their incredible skills and abilities.

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