Bucks Rookie Thon Maker Made Chris Andersen Look Silly On This Nasty Step Back Jumper

The NBA has a bunch of young big men who are capable of pulling off moves usually reserved for guards. These moves have been mastered by dudes like Kristaps Porzingis and Karl-Anthony Towns. Maybe we have another young giant whose ability with the ball could create highlights for years to come if he puts it all together: Milwaukee rookie Thon Maker.

Those familiar with Maker know that he was a mixtape legend in high school. While his college recruitment and path to the 2016 NBA Draft were a bit rocky, everyone knew the dude was talented enough to play in the NBA. He was considered a seven footer with a guard’s skill set in high school, and on Tuesday night, Cavs big man Chris “Birdman” Andersen learned first hand what Maker can do when he’s on his game.

Maker got the ball in the corner during Milwaukee’s 17-point win over Cleveland. He took one dribble before busting out a step back jumper that got nothing but net. While the shot was pretty, the step back was even prettier, and Birdman ended up curled up in a ball on the ground due to the 19 year old. Even LeBron respected the young man’s game.

People were shocked when Milwaukee took Maker with the tenth pick in the 2016 Draft, as there were serious questions about whether he was laying about his age. He hasn’t played all that much as a rookie, but this was a nice moment for him. Maybe if he puts these moments together with a little more frequency he’ll get some more playing time.