Brandon Jennings Says Jrue Holiday Isn’t Better Than Him

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Former NBA guard Brandon Jennings has reignited a debate over player comparisons by proclaiming that Jrue Holiday, a two-time champion, is not superior to him. Jennings made the bold assertion during a recent appearance on Gilbert Arenas‘ podcast, declaring, “Jrue Holiday’s never been better than me.”

Jennings, who played nine seasons in the NBA before retiring in 2018, drew attention to his career achievements while arguing against the merits of fellow 2009 draft class member Holiday. “They ended up becoming better, but you’re not better than me,” Jennings said, referencing their respective careers.

Despite Jennings’ statement, there are stark differences in their basketball accolades. Holiday has been named an All-Star and made the All-Defensive teams three times each. Jennings, on the other hand, is remembered for his stellar high school career in California and a notable 55-point game during his rookie season with the Milwaukee Bucks.

“I’m a franchise guy,” Jennings insisted, emphasizing his popularity in Milwaukee, where he claimed fans wore his jerseys and bought bobbleheads, contrasting that with the accomplishments of his peers. “I had a signature shoe. Let’s stop this (expletive),” he said.

Jennings also touched on his selective criticisms, including a remark regarding Ricky Rubio’s pre-draft workouts. He contended that Rubio’s absence from these sessions unfairly influenced his draft position, though he admitted, “It’s an interesting theory.” Rubio was a standout in the Spanish ACB League from a young age, which Jennings pointed out as a point of contention.

Teague, a fellow member of the 2009 draft class, responded to Jennings’ claims during his own podcast. “Brandon was cold, but Jrue Holiday can guard him,” Teague said, dismissing Jennings’ assertions about his career. “He can’t guard Jrue Holiday. He’s too little,” Teague added, referencing their height and playing styles.

While Jennings is vocal about his standing among peers, Teague’s experience playing alongside Holiday during the latter’s championship run with the Bucks gave him a different perspective. “You didn’t play with no killers,” he told Jennings, emphasizing the caliber of teammates that often define a player’s success.

The ongoing debate about the relative merits of Jennings and Holiday continues to add layers to their careers, illustrating the complexities of player comparisons in the ever-evolving NBA landscape.