In a league dominated by athletic freaks like LeBron James, Dwight Howard, and Dwyane Wade, the emphasis on smarts in the league appears to be dwindling. However, upon further review this is simply not true.
Daryl Morey gave up Rudy Gay to get Shane Battier, Rod Higgins gave up Jason Richardson and Jared Dudley to get Boris Diaw, Mark Warkentien gave up Allen Iverson to get Chauncey Billups, and the list goes on and on.
Teams in fact appear to be placing even more weight in the brains department these days, as the less talented but smarter Evan Turner appears to be the second pick over more talented but less smart players such as DeMarcus Cousins and Derrick Favors.
While athletecism alone can allow some players to succeed in the league, longevity is dependent upon smarts, as the best players diversify their game as they get older, allowing themselves to continue their high level of play despite declining physical abilities.
These are just a few players who have used their brains to become better players and achieve more than their physical talents would allow them.Begin Slideshow
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Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Patrick Harrel
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