Former Olympic teammate of Kevin Durant, Paul George, somewhat agreed with Lyles' remarks in a podcast interview. George asserted that, technically speaking, Lyles had a point. But he also thinks that the NBA, which features a variety of foreign players that represent the top basketball skill in their various nations, is the best basketball league in the world. At the same time, the 8x NBA All-Star also defended Noah Lyles’ point of view and acknowledged the hard work he put in against top sprinters from around the world to get his hands on a gold medal.
George further added, “But at the same time, I think you have a right – the NBA being the best of the best in basketball, with all these other countries and national players being a part of our league, yeah you’re a world champion. But I don’t think there’s a wrong answer either way.” L.A. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer also agreed with Paul George and said that technically speaking and after considering the definition of a world champion, Noah Lyles is in the right.