Content creator and streamer Kai Cenat recently made a bold and unexpected claim during his appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast. When asked about his favorite NBA player, Cenat confidently named Leandro Barbosa as the greatest basketball player of all time. The declaration sparked both amusement and debate among basketball fans, given Barbosa’s status as a solid player but not typically part of the GOAT conversation.
Shannon Sharpe: “Who’s your favorite player?”
Kai Cenat: “Leandro Barbosa. The greatest NBA player that touched the basketball. Ever.”
Shannon Sharpe: “Is he a homie or something?”
Kai Cenat: “No.”
Shannon Sharpe: “So how’d you come to Leandro Barbosa?”
Kai Cenat: “Cause I used to watch Golden State and Leandro Barbosa was an amazing dude. He’s a good dude, man. Who’s your favorite player, LeBron?”
Shannon Sharpe: “Yeah. ”
Kai Cenat: “Okay. I like that right there. That’s fire.”
Shannon Sharpe: “Adam Silver drafted you to the Knicks. Is that your favorite NBA team?”
Kai Cenat: “Uh, yes. The New York Knicks. Anything New York. Anything New York is me. New York tatted right there. Anything New York is me. I’m gonna ride or die. It could be a New York bowling team. I want New York to win.”
What Did Kai Cenat Just Say?
Barbosa was nice but like brooooo pic.twitter.com/3ifxGnSdZv
— Kadeem (@kdeemoo) January 15, 2025
Cenat’s admiration for Barbosa isn’t new. In a past video with Andre Iguodala, Cenat doubled down on his claim, calling Barbosa “literally the GOAT.”
Furthermore, Barbosa’s influence even extended to Cenat’s comedic “Little Basketball Association” debut, where he featured Barbosa during his promo.
Kai Cenat adora o Leandro Barbosa 🏀 pic.twitter.com/Tw5gxa3Hqj
— TT (@TheTruthBhind69) December 30, 2024
Leandro Barbosa, fondly known as the “Brazilian Blur,” had a remarkable 14-year NBA career, earning respect across the league for his speed, scoring ability, and role as a key contributor on championship-contending teams. With career averages of 10.6 points, 2.1 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game while shooting 46.0% from the field and 38.7% from beyond the arc, Barbosa’s impact went beyond the box score.
His best season came in 2006-07 with the Phoenix Suns, where he averaged 18.1 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game, shooting 47.6% from the field and 43.4% from three-point range. This outstanding performance earned him the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award, cementing his place as one of the league’s top bench players.
A key highlight of his career was winning the 2015 NBA Championship with the Golden State Warriors, where his scoring bursts and veteran presence provided crucial support.
Cenat’s admiration for Barbosa likely stems from the player’s time with the Warriors, a team known for its dynamic style and success during the mid-2010s. Barbosa’s energy, infectious positivity, and knack for making key plays left a lasting impression on fans like Cenat.
While most basketball fans wouldn’t place Barbosa in the GOAT debate alongside the likes of LeBron James, Michael Jordan, or Stephen Curry, Cenat’s choice highlights the personal connections fans can form with players. For Cenat, Barbosa represents more than stats and accolades—he embodies an inspiring journey and a unique style of play.
Leandro Barbosa’s career may not match the all-time greats in sheer dominance, but his contributions to the game are undeniable. For Kai Cenat, the “Brazilian Blur” will forever hold a special place as his GOAT. While the claim has stirred debate, it also reminds us that greatness is often in the eye of the beholder, shaped by personal experiences and admiration.
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