Naji Marshall of the Dallas Mavericks recently praised Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets, labeling him as one of the ''real dogs'' in the NBA for his tenacious defensive skills. In a candid conversation, Marshall highlighted the rarity of true competitors in the league, noting that many players fall short of this standard. He also mentioned other notable players like Jimmy Butler, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Draymond Green as exemplifying this mentality. Brooks, who boasts impressive shooting metrics, has been pivotal for the Rockets, contributing to their strong season performance.

Marshall further acknowledged the emergence of smaller players like Jose Alvarado as gritty competitors. With his own journey from being undrafted to a successful NBA player, Marshall's insights reflect a deep understanding of the competitive spirit required to excel in the league. His personal achievements, including a career-best season averaging 13.2 points, showcase the hard work and determination he values.