Wendell Carter Jr. is not lacking in confidence, and he made that clear during Orlando Magic media day when asked about how he stacks up against Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo. While praising Bam as “the most versatile big in the league,” Carter quickly added that he believes he belongs in that conversation, too. But it was his follow-up that caught everyone’s attention: he boldly declared that he and WNBA star Angel Reese would shut out Adebayo and his partner, four-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, in a hypothetical 2-on-2 matchup.
“I definitely feel like I’m one of the most versatile bigs in the league. You look at a guy like Bam, who’s the ideal type for everyone. I think he’s the most versatile big in the league. I’m right up there with him. I feel like I can do pretty much anything that’s needed.”
“Guard one through five, rebound, can screen well, can pass the ball really well, can knock down open spots. Yeah, I definitely think I rank up there in terms of the versatility.”
“In terms of the 2-on-2, definitely 11-0, Wardell and Angel for sure. Shoutout Bam and A’ja though.”
The claim sent shockwaves across both NBA and WNBA circles. On paper, it feels like wishful thinking. Adebayo has established himself as one of the premier defensive bigs in the NBA, a three-time All-Star, and a cornerstone of the Miami Heat. Wilson, meanwhile, is coming off her fourth MVP season, already carving out a legacy as one of the greatest players in WNBA history. Shutting them out 11-0 in a half-court game seems, at best, a long shot.
Carter’s confidence, however, was rooted in how he sees his own game. As for the WNBA side of the matchup, Angel Reese has become one of the league’s most popular young stars. The Chicago Sky forward is a two-time All-Star already and has led the league in rebounding twice, quickly living up to her “Bayou Barbie” billing.
If the hypothetical game ever came to life, sportsbooks would certainly install Adebayo and Wilson as heavy favorites. Their pedigree alone, Olympic gold medals, MVP awards, Finals appearances, dwarfs Carter and Reese’s resumes. Still, Carter’s lighthearted challenge has sparked plenty of debate and even talk of whether an exhibition could happen in a setting like the “Unrivaled” league created by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart.
At the very least, Carter’s bold prediction has brought extra attention to both him and Reese ahead of the new season. Whether fans see it as confidence or comedy, his 11-0 comment has ensured one thing: Bam and A’ja will have bulletin-board material the next time they run into Wendell on the court.
