The Frost Falcons’ 8–0 dismantling of the SB Dragons in Game One wasn’t just another victory for Lil Nee, it was a reminder of why he’s the reigning face of the NBL. But after the game, Nee’s attention wasn’t solely on his opponent.
When asked about his mentorship of Mr. Bush, who recently broke the league’s single-game scoring record, Lil Nee gave a surprisingly reflective answer:
“I see flashes of me in him,”
Nee said, acknowledging Bush’s rise from a winless rookie start to now carrying the Herd into the playoffs.
The comment drew immediate attention, especially after Bush nearly stunned ACN in his own Game One. The parallels between the two are impossible to ignore: last year, Lil Nee began as a struggling rookie before rallying to a championship. Now, Bush seems to be carving the same path.
Rivalry and Respect
What makes this dynamic even juicier is the ongoing tension. Just weeks ago, Bush stormed the stage during the MVP presentation, calling Nee a “fraud” and accusing him of cheating. Now, Nee’s quote shifts the narrative, painting Bush less as a rival and more as an heir apparent — a player whose style and growth mirror his own. But is this respect genuine, or just a mind game to keep Bush in check? Only Lil Nee knows.
What It Means for the Playoffs
If Bush continues his hot streak and forces a deeper series against ACN, the league may be staring at a possible Nee vs. Bush Finals matchup. That would pit mentor against protégé, established MVP against rising underdog, the kind of storyline the NBL thrives on. For now, Nee’s words only add fuel to the fire. Whether it’s respect or strategy, one thing is certain: the shadow of Lil Nee looms over every player, even those who remind him of himself.