This week brings the release of the latest film based on Marvel’s first family, the Fantastic Four. The legendary comic book team brings together a unique quartet of super-powered individuals who are able to achieve unbelievable feats of heroism.
The NBA is filled with unique athletes who play the role of hero for their teams by using superhuman-like abilities with a basketball. But which NBA stars feel like the hoops version of the iconic comic book team? We delve into the perfect fits for a hoops version of the Fantastic Four.
Mister Fantastic: Nikola Jokic
Reed Richards, AKA Mister Fantastic, is the opposite of Iron Man, AKA Tony Stark. He is just as brilliant — if not more so — but he is a humble and introverted individual without a cocky bone in his body. Yet he is one of the most powerful people in Marvel Comics. Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic is very similar.
He is a quiet killer who can do some truly amazing things on the floor for a big man. In an era of swagger, “The Dad Bod God” is one of the most ordinary personalities in the sport. However, what he can do with a basketball is far from it. And just like Richards, he leads his team with an endearing humility.
The Human Torch: Anthony Edwards
Johnny Storm, AKA The Human Torch, has always stood out in the Fantastic Four for his youthful exuberance and downright cocky attitude. That is why 23-year-old Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards is the NBA version of Storm. He has an intoxicating smile backed by an unbreakable belief in his talent. And if you get on his bad side, it’s “Flame on!” and he goes about torching an opposing defense with ease.
Invisible Woman: Caitlin Clark
Susan Storm-Richards, AKA the Invisible Woman, is the heart of the Fantastic Four. Yet, while she can be humble like her husband Reed, she has a bit a fire similar to her brother Johnny that comes out on occasion. Caitlin Clark is the heart of the WNBA right now. And what makes her beloved to a legion of hoops fans is her humble nature, but obvious confidence between the lines on the court. She is the hoops version of Susan Richard.
The Thing: Victor Wembanyama
Ben Grimm, AKA The Thing, is a true freak. Unlike his teammates, who earned their powers without their physical features being changed, Grimm was forever altered into a bizarre rock creature. San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is a freak in his own right. But in a good way.
At 7-foot-4 — and maybe still growing — he already looks different then other players. However, he has shocking athleticism and touch for his size. Furthermore, similar to Grimm, he has a seemingly kind demeanor despite being a basketball monster.
