In a fiery pickup game that felt more like a flashback to the early 2010s, former NBA stars John Wall and Michael Beasley squared off in a one-on-one matchup that reignited memories of their prime. What started as a casual run quickly turned into an intense battle, as both players got in each other’s faces and showcased their ultra-competitive nature. It wasn’t just friendly fire; this was real hoop warfare.
John Wall, who hasn’t played in the NBA since the end of the 2022–23 season, reminded everyone why he was once considered one of the quickest point guards in league history.
With lightning-fast crossovers, explosive first steps, and vintage body control, Wall got to the rim at will, slicing through defenders like it was 2016 all over again.
Despite being out of the league, Wall showed he hasn’t lost his hunger. He’s still working, still grinding and while retirement hasn’t officially come, he’s hinted at potentially joining the BIG3 one day.
On the other side, Michael Beasley put his deep scoring bag on full display. The former No. 2 overall pick was cooking with behind-the-back dribbles, flashy passes, high-arcing fadeaways, and deep three-pointers that left even Wall nodding in respect.
Beasley’s skillset in one-on-one situations has never been in question; he’s long been regarded as one of the best isolation scorers of his generation. The trash talk was flowing, and neither man backed down, trading buckets and verbal jabs in a back-and-forth showdown that captivated everyone in the gym.
Beasley’s recent resurgence in the basketball underground has added fuel to his legend. He recently defeated fellow NBA veteran and current BIG3 standout Lance Stephenson in a one-on-one duel, taking the contest 31-21.
Beasley has even claimed in the past that he “blew out” LeBron James in a private one-on-one game and recently dared Carmelo Anthony to a similar challenge.
Statistically, Michael Beasley’s NBA career was one of unfulfilled potential, yet undeniable talent. Over 609 career games, he averaged 12.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game while shooting 46.5% from the field.
His best season came in 2010–11 with the Minnesota Timberwolves, when he averaged 19.2 points and 5.6 rebounds while starting 73 games. Beasley was always a bucket, his issue was never talent, it was consistency and opportunity.
As for John Wall, his resume speaks volumes. A five-time NBA All-Star, Wall played 613 career games and averaged 18.7 points, 8.9 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game.
His best statistical season came in 2016–17 with the Washington Wizards, when he put up 23.1 points and 10.7 assists per game, earning All-NBA Third Team honors and leading the Wizards to a Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Watching Wall and Beasley go at it reminded fans what made these two so electric during their primes, Wall with his breakneck speed and fearless drives, Beasley with his versatile scoring and smooth touch. While their NBA days might be behind them, their competitive fire is still burning red-hot.
In a game with no referees, no crowd pressure, and nothing to prove, they still acted like everything was on the line. And for hoop fans, that’s all you can ask for.
