Oklahoma City Thunder forward Lu Dort is known as a fierce defensive presence. As one of the best 3-and-D players in the game, Dort utilizes keen defensive instincts, quick reaction time, and strength to gain the upper hand against opposing players.
Dort's superior skill as a defender has been recognized by several individuals in the basketball community, helping him earn his first All-Defensive selection in 2025, while also finishing fourth in DPOY voting.
Hustle and effort are key aspects that can help any player make an impact. At his camp, Dort attempted to instill these qualities in young hoopers.
In a recent video, the NBA champion could be seen coaching some kids while acting as a live defender in a drill. By taking an aggressive approach toward one young hooper, Dort displayed how difficult it really is to score at a high level.
After stripping the ball from the kid, the forward could be heard talking trash, too, something he's not typically associated with. While his tactics were primarily a simulation of real-game situations, NBA fans on social media had a completely different opinion.
As several users took note of Dort's hand on the player's shirt while defending him, they shared their reactions on X.
"He even fouls high schoolers,"noted one user, pointing out Dort's aggression while defending the young kid.
"Hand checking tf outta him. Dude is really a hack,"pointed out another.
Another user emphasized the context of the environment and stated, "Lu Dort is a real-life demon. Fouling kids is diabolical."
"Can he go two minutes without fouling ffs,"exasperated another user, seemingly frustrated with Dort's defensive tactics.
One fan expressed some concern for the kids at the forward's camp and said, "Hope he doesn't send any kids home with a torn ACL."
Another joked about his reputation for injuring players and stated, "Careful. He's taking out ACLs for the love of it."
"Is hand-checking still legal or not?"asked one user.
While a majority of the users were shocked by Dort's approach, a few applauded the forward for giving the young players a reality check.
"Teaching them early,"claimed one user.
"They don't know what NBA defense really is!!!"exclaimed another, hyped to see the effort even in a one-on-one drill.
"Love it. Need that defensive mentality!"added another user.
Regardless of his reputation as an aggressive physical defender who benefits from missed calls, it is impossible to overlook his importance in the Thunder's success last season.
In the Thunder's rotation, the 26-year-old played a crucial role as a point-of-attack defender, a rebounder, and a perimeter threat. While often tasked with guarding the best player on the opposing team, Dort consistently fulfilled his duties as an offensive player, too.
Last season, the forward averaged 10.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals, while shooting 43.5% overall and 41.2% from three.
The Thunder will look to him to be a significant contributor in the upcoming season as well. With aspirations of repeating championship success, OKC is in a prime position to win it all again.
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