New York Knicks guard Josh Hart responded to the ongoing NBA vs WNBA debate after Shannon Sharpe raised the question on Club Shay Shay about whether a WNBA player could defeat an NBA player in a one-on-one matchup. Hart confidently claimed on Instagram that he would win decisively against any WNBA player, emphasizing his belief in the physical and skill gap.
Hart boldly stated,
“Game to 11. It’s for sure 11-3 me”
—Josh Hart, New York Knicks guard.
Flau’jae Johnson, who was part of the original discussion, replied to Sharpe’s question by asserting the difficulty WNBA players face competing against NBA athletes physically.
“It’s not physically possible. No. You know how hard it is to get in the NBA? … I know I can’t.”
—Flau’jae Johnson
Examining the Physical Differences Between NBA and WNBA Players
While standout WNBA players such as A’ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark are recognized as exceptional athletes, many experts and players agree that overcoming the NBA’s physical advantages is unlikely in a direct competition. Historical perspectives support this view, with former NBA players weighing in on the differences.
Jamal Crawford once remarked that no WNBA player could best a college-level NBA prospect in a head-to-head contest. Similarly, Kobe Bryant acknowledged that elite WNBA stars like Diana Taurasi can compete at a high level, but he stopped short of suggesting they would prevail in a physical one-on-one matchup.
Josh Hart Challenges Video Game Ratings and Highlights His Role on the Knicks
Beyond the NBA vs WNBA discussion, Josh Hart recently disputed the accuracy of allegedly leaked NBA2K26 video game ratings that suggested Knicks guard Tyler Kolek was rated higher in dunking than All-Star guard Jalen Brunson. Hart expressed disagreement with such assessments via social media.
Jalen Brunson has established himself as a critical offensive threat for the Knicks, helping lead the team toward title contention. Although athleticism is not Brunson’s primary asset, his well-rounded skills have proven invaluable.
Hart’s own contributions come in the form of high-energy plays that energize the team. Known for his relentless defense, rebounding, and ability to ignite fast breaks, Hart draws comparisons to New York’s legendary blue-collar players like Charles Oakley and Anthony Mason.
In the previous season, Hart averaged 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, shooting efficiently with a 52.5% field goal percentage and 33.3% from three-point range.
Implications of Hart’s Comments and Future Perspectives
Josh Hart’s forceful reply in the NBA WNBA debate underlines the broader dialogue surrounding comparative athleticism in professional basketball leagues. His confidence exemplifies the physical distinctions often cited between NBA and WNBA athletes. As the debate continues, these discussions contribute to ongoing respect for both leagues’ talent while recognizing their unique demands.
Hart’s challenge to NBA2K26 ratings also highlights players’ desire for accurate representation in digital formats, underscoring the importance of evaluations that reflect real-world performance. Moving forward, Hart’s role with the Knicks as a dynamic guard remains vital as the team pursues championship aspirations.