LeBron James is once again in awe of the Pistons’ rookie star, Ausar Thompson. Detroit defeated the Nets 118-112 tonight, but the King just can’t get enough of the young forward who is an emerging defender on the team already. A high-profile prospect, both Ausar and his twin, Amen Thompson, were among the top five draft picks.

A James fan since childhood, Ausar had finally gotten the chance to go against his idol last November. Although the team lost to LA, Thompson left a huge impression on the 4x champion so much so that he compared him to one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, Clyde Drexler. And tonight, the Lakers superstar didn’t hold back in his praises either. Bron took to Instagram to share his excitement at a low crossover slam. He commented, “That move is SICK rook!! Sheesh,” followed by a number of fire emojis. Here’s the video that got the ‘L Train’ hyped.

While he is a natural at defense, Thompson’s offense has been something of a work in progress. And he is putting in all the work – all the time, every time. The 21-year-old always took a step back when it came to shooting, but now, he knows that’s the way to go.

Talking to The Athletic after Tuesday night’s 110-118 loss to Miami, Ausar made a bold statement. “One day, I want to be one of the best shooters. That’s my goal.” There is no doubt that Thompson will make it. The kind of work ethic he practices and the determination to perfect his skills at any cost are what’s going to see him all the way through.

It seems like top names in the league also believe he can do great things in the NBA.

Davis had joined LeBron James in giving the rookie his flowers

Drexler is nicknamed “Clyde the Glide” for his smooth, on-court movements and much of this is apparent in Ausar’s performance. This was exactly what LeBron James had also referred to when he compared the rookie to the Blazers’ legend. Take, for instance, the second possession of the Pistons in the Nov. 29, 2023 game.

Slamming “Offensive Minded” Players, Pistons Rookie Ausar Thompson Unravels Idolizing Two-Way Players Like Michael Jordan, Lebron and Kobe

Thompson, knowing that Cade Cunningham would attract defenders, waited in the dunker’s spot for the pass. As soon as he got the ball in his hands, Ausar dribbled and went up for a two-handed dunk. And all of this, right in front of LeBron. His performance caught Anthony Davis‘ attention too.

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He wholeheartedly agrees with James on the gliding part. “The way he plays is so smooth. It’s like he’s gliding on the floor. He’s going to be really talented. Very athletic. Can score … it’s going to be fun to watch him throughout the years.”

Ausar Thompson is clearly on the watchlist of some of the top veterans in the league. And he is determined not to disappoint!