In an era where specialization often defines a player’s role in the NBA, Brook Lopez’s career has defied convention. The Milwaukee Bucks center recently became the first player in NBA history to record both 2,000 blocks and 1,000 made three-pointers—a milestone that encapsulates his evolution from a traditional post player to one of the league’s most unique big men.
Brook Lopez: A Unique Career Defined by Evolution and History
From Low-Post Scorer to Stretch Big
Lopez entered the NBA in 2008 as the 10th overall pick by the then-New Jersey Nets. Early in his career, he made a name for himself as a dominant interior scorer, averaging over 20 points per game in multiple seasons while operating almost exclusively inside the paint. His offensive game was built on post-ups, hook shots, and an efficient mid-range jumper, but three-pointers were nowhere in sight (seven total 3PA in his first six seasons).
Despite his offensive prowess, Lopez’s early career was marred by injuries and a lack of defensive impact. He missed nearly an entire season in 2011-12 due to a foot injury and was often criticized for his rebounding numbers, particularly for a seven-footer. However, his ability to score consistently kept him among the league’s premier big men.
The Three-Point Transformation
The turning point came during the 2016-17 season with the Brooklyn Nets, when Lopez suddenly added a three-point shot to his repertoire. After attempting just 31 threes in his first eight seasons, he hoisted up 387 that year, making 34.6% of them. This transition extended his career longevity and redefined his value in a rapidly evolving NBA that prioritized floor spacing.
His transformation continued when he signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2018. Under coach Mike Budenholzer, Lopez fully embraced the modern stretch-five role, becoming a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s offensive and defensive schemes. Nicknamed “Splash Mountain,” he became a legitimate deep threat, peaking at 2.3 made threes per game in the 2018-19 season.
Defensive Renaissance and a Championship Legacy
Beyond his offensive reinvention, Lopez also became an elite rim protector. Once considered a defensive liability, he developed into a shot-blocking force, anchoring the Bucks’ defense and allowing Giannis Antetokounmpo to play aggressively on the perimeter. He consistently blocked over two shots per game in multiple seasons and played a crucial role in Milwaukee’s 2021 championship run.
Lopez’s presence in the paint was pivotal during the Bucks’ Finals series against the Phoenix Suns. Whether contesting shots, protecting the rim, or spacing the floor on offense, he played an indispensable role in securing Milwaukee’s first NBA title in 50 years.
A Historic Career Milestone for Brook Lopez
This season, at 36 years old, Lopez reached an unprecedented milestone: 2,000 career blocks and 1,000 three-pointers. His ability to seamlessly transition between eras and adapt his game makes him one of the most unique players in Bucks and perhaps even NBA history. While Victor Wembanyama has shown immense potential in both areas early in his career, he just didn’t have enough time yet, although his 253 threes and 407 blocks in 110 games make us only imagine what is yet to come for him.
While some people debate whether the Bucks should move on from Lopez, his contributions remain invaluable. He continues to rank among the league’s top shot blockers while providing essential spacing on offense. His career exemplifies adaptability, longevity, and the willingness to evolve in an ever-changing NBA landscape.
For now, Splash Mountain stands alone in the 2,000-block, 1,000-three club. But beyond the numbers, Brook Lopez’s career is a testament to growth, reinvention, and resilience—one that deserves its place in NBA history.
Photo credit: © Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
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