NBA fans did not miss the chance to mock Amen Thompson after hearing his most recent statement, sharing his opinion that he is currently the best defender in the NBA. Thompson is a young and upcoming star currently playing for the Houston Rockets. He had a huge impact on the team last season.
Thompson’s presence was invaluable to the Rockets, who quickly established themselves as one of the best defensive teams in the league. The Rockets finished last season with the second-best record in the Western Conference, second only to the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, they were unable to advance past the first round of the playoffs.
Despite clearly having a long way to go, the 22-year-old star caught fans off guard by declaring that he is the best defender in the league, prompting several instant responses.
How Many NBA Stars Are Better Defenders Than Amen Thompson?
While the league is filled with several talented defenders, some fans might be able to understand why Thompson feels this way about himself. After all, several prominent members of the baskebell community, such as former star and coach Steve Nash, have emphasized Thompson’s defensive versatility and impact.
Be that as it may, fans did not take too kindly to the Rockets star’s boastful statement. A fan commented, “Well you’re certainly the only person who feels that way. Amen.”
Well you’re certainly the only person that feels that way Amen
— Unbiased Mets Fan (@TheMetsX) October 17, 2025
Since Thompson has a twin named Ausar, some fans also joked that it is unlikely for him to be the best defender in his own family, let alone the entire league. They wrote, “Does he know he might not be the best in his own family? Lol.”
Does he know he might not be the best in his own family? Lol
— William M (@williammmmc) October 17, 2025
Other fans joked about Thompson’s dramatic message, drawing amusing comparisons to a popular Marvel villain: “Bro said that like he’s guarding Thanos in the Finals.”
Bro said that like he’s guarding Thanos in the Finals
— ɴɪᴇʟ (❖,❖) (@0X_Niel) October 17, 2025
While Thompson may be an incredible defender, fans did not allow him to forget that Victor Wembanyama is still dominating the league with the Spurs: “Most people feel like it’s Victor Wembanyama.”
Most people feel like it’s Victor Wembanyama
— Per Sources (@PerSources) October 17, 2025
Elite rim protectors and shot blockers such as Wembanyama and Giannis Antetokounmpo are considered superior defenders to Thompson. Other experienced on-ball defenders like Alex Caruso, Jrue Holiday, and Lu Dort have NBA championships to back their defensive skills. The same can be said about Draymond Green and several others.
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All of this indicates that Thompson is far from proving he is the best defender in the league. He certainly failed to stop Stephen Curry and the Warriors as the Rockets were eliminated last season.
Thompson should tread carefully, given the very thin line between confidence and overconfidence. Most importantly, statements of this nature travel fast across the league. Hopefully, they do not put a target on his back as the Rockets look to contend for an NBA championship this season.
