‘Why would you ask me that?’: Three-time NBA champ bristles at question after NBL explosion

Illawarra Hawks big-name import JaVale McGee has bristled at questions over whether he can keep up with the fast-paced tempo of his team after leading the defending champions to an upset victory over Melbourne United.

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The veteran big man delivered a dominant performance, posting a season-high 37 points and 14 rebounds, while recording yet another double-double – his league-leading eighth of the season – as the Hawks claimed a 107–93 win in an NBL Finals rematch.

Heading into the year, questions surrounded McGee’s ability to keep pace with the NBL’s high-octane style due to his age, history with pneumonia, and overall stamina. Nine games in and the three-time NBA champion is averaging 26.1 minutes per game – fifth among centres.

During the post-game press conference, McGee was asked whether he found it difficult to keep up with the team’s pace of play. His response was equal parts sharp and confident

“Yeah, why would you ask me that?” McGee replied, prompting laughter from head coach Justin Tatum.

“Do I not excel in the full court? That’s your imagination, not mine. You have to stop imagining what I do. I’m fine in the full court, half court – my age means nothing to me.”

Head coach Justin Tatum, who has consistently defended McGee amid frustrations over the lack of foul calls he’s received this season, praised his centre for staying focused and pushing through.

JaVale McGee went off for the Hawks.Source: Getty Images

“I’m just happy the referees finally saw some of the physicality he deals with,“ Tatum said.

“He got what he deserved in terms of foul calls. But even if he didn’t, he still played through it. I’m just happy he was able to flourish today.”

McGee entered the contest with only seven free-throw attempts for the season – a statistic that had drawn Tatum’s public criticism – but the league appeared to take notice. Against Melbourne, McGee got to the line 11 times, capitalising on the opportunity and dominating inside.

Through nine games, McGee has not only become one of the league’s most efficient bigs but also a legitimate MVP contender.