Beverley, discussing The Professor’s game with former NBA champion Jason Williams on a recent podcast, made his stance unmistakably clear:
“I’m locking his boney a up. I’m lock that white MFer. I’m locking that st right up.”
“Be physical. I’m getting that handle. Alright. I’m gonna tap that wrist. When I mean tap wrist, I mean tap that wrist.”
Translation: The Professor’s handles might work in a highlight reel, but against 94 feet of relentless pressure and physicality, they’d break down fast.
Boucher never seriously pursued an NBA career. He understood the limitations of his resume and the stigma attached to streetball players.
Despite Beverley’s trash talk, Jason Williams who knew something about flashy play himself—gave The Professor his due:
Boucher’s influence extends far beyond his playing days. He inspired a generation of young players to experiment with handles, to play with flair, to express themselves on the court.
Patrick Beverley would probably lock up The Professor. That’s what NBA-level defenders do to streetball legends no matter how slick their handles.
But that’s not really the point. The Professor wasn’t trying to be Pat Beverley. He was trying to be The Professor. And in that lane, he was spectacular.
Streetball and the NBA are different games. Both have their legends. And both deserve respect—even if Pat Bev would tap that wrist all night long.