Episode Details

Episode 7 of Basketball Now & Then brings a defensive force comparison to the forefront with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Dwight Howard, two big men who anchor their teams on the defensive end. Each dominates in his own way, protecting the rim, altering shots, and making opponents think twice before attacking the paint.

The hosts examine Dwight’s physical dominance, rebounding power, and interior presence defined an era of traditional rim protection, while Jaren Jackson Jr. represents the modern evolution, using length, timing, and mobility to defend across positions. Both players impact winning without needing the ball, yet their offensive roles and styles reflect the changing expectations of big men in today’s game.

This episode asks what it truly means to control the paint across generations. By comparing Dwight’s commanding presence with Jaren’s versatile defense, Basketball Now & Then continues to bridge eras, showing that elite defense, no matter the style, remains a cornerstone of winning basketball.

Shop the official NBA Store through our link to grab Jaren Jackson, Jr. or Dwight Howard jerseys, gear, and more. Every purchase supports Basketball Now & Then. Link down below. Tap in now.

• https://nbastore.vwz6.net/jaren-jackson-gear-collectibles
• https://nbastore.vwz6.net/dwight-howard-gear-collectibles

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* With our classic episodes and legends series, we compare basketball players, not necessarily to see who is better, but to juxtapose their basketball journeys for the enrichment of the game.