Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. shared his view on a common misconception about NBA players. He said that many assume hard work is universal in the league, but that is not always the case.
Porter Jr. explained that while talent is necessary, dedication separates the truly elite. “A lot of people don’t work on their game, don’t work on their bodies, don’t work on staying healthy,” he said, via HoopsHype, noting that recovery is often overlooked.
The forward described his personal approach as highly disciplined, partly shaped by past injuries. “I have always been, as you know, super, super dedicated. I love to work hard,” he added.
Porter Jr. contrasted super-dedicated players with those who become complacent after earning big contracts. He singled out LeBron James as an example of consistent effort. “Like Bron—he’s been in the league 20 years, maybe more. His body… like, he’s a tremendous worker,” Porter Jr. said.
The Nets forward also pointed out that some players tend to relax once they secure financial stability. “There are a lot of talented and gifted players—but not all are dedicated,” he noted, emphasizing that hard work is not automatic in the NBA.
