In an era where NBA players are increasingly stepping into the media spotlight, few have embraced the dual identity of athlete and podcaster like Draymond Green.
But not everyone is convinced that the balance works, especially former NBA champion Stephen Jackson, who recently stirred debate with a pointed critique.
“Half the players that are playing, they can’t do it. I ain’t seen nobody successful doing it yet. Nobody has been successful on both,” Jackson said.
When co-hosts floated Draymond Green as a possible exception, Jackson didn’t hold back.
“His role is super limited in what he has to do. He’s not that guy on the team. He’s not a go-to guy. He’s not a star. It’s hard to do both,” he added.
Stephen Jackson says there are no NBA players who can be both successful basketball players and successful podcasters, and he calls Draymond Green a super limited player 👀
(🎥 @allthesmokeprod / h/t @BASKETBALLonX )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 15, 2025
Over the past five years, the NBA podcasting scene has exploded. From Paul George’s Podcast P to JJ Redick’s The Old Man and the Three, players are using their platforms to share insights, challenge narratives, and build personal brands. Draymond Green’s The Draymond Green Show is one of the most prominent, often featuring candid takes on league dynamics and behind-the-scenes stories.
But Jackson’s critique raises a deeper question: Can a player truly excel on the court while maintaining a high-profile media presence?
Jackson’s comments hinge on the idea that Green’s on-court responsibilities are “limited”; a claim that’s both provocative and debatable. While Green isn’t a primary scorer, his impact on defense, playmaking, and leadership has been central to the Warriors’ dynasty. He’s a four-time NBA champion, a former Defensive Player of the Year, and widely regarded as one of the smartest players in the league.
Still, Jackson argues that Green’s ability to juggle podcasting and basketball stems from his reduced offensive burden.
“You just out there to do the dirty work,” Jackson said, implying that Green’s role allows him more bandwidth for off-court ventures.
