Vincent Poirier expressed his strong views on the G League, sparking conversation about its value compared to other leagues.
Poirier, who joined Anadolu Efes from Real Madrid this offseason in the EuroLeague, shared his thoughts during an interview with Eurohoops at media day.
He was responding to recent comments by Juan Toscano-Anderson, who had criticized European basketball.
Poirier was clear in his stance, stating, “I don’t think the G League is even a real league.” His comments were a direct response to Toscano-Anderson’s fiery speech during the FIBA Intercontinental Cup final.
In that speech, Toscano-Anderson emphasized that his goal, and that of his teammates, was to play in the NBA, not in European leagues like the ACB or EuroLeague.
Poirier, who previously played in the NBA and now competes in the EuroLeague, made it clear that he views European basketball differently.
He acknowledged that while Toscano-Anderson’s comments may have been motivational, they sparked a larger debate.
Poirier went on to compare the G League to the French second division, downplaying its level of competition.
“I don’t know which is more valuable for the NBA, the G League or EuroLeague,” Poirier added.
Poirier highlighted how Unicaja Malaga, a non-EuroLeague team, defeated the G League’s top squad in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, proving the strength of European basketball.
He compared the G League to the French second division, suggesting that it’s on a similar level, despite the NBA affiliation.
Poirier said, “I played in the G League, and I know players who went to Europe and improved after playing there.”
He acknowledged that the G League has its place, but he does not believe it matches the intensity or level of competition seen in the EuroLeague.
Toscano-Anderson’s comments were not taken well by EuroLeague MVP Mike James, who questioned his intelligence.
