General
microwave
What does microwave mean?
A player, often a bench scorer, who gets hot and pours in points very quickly.
"Bring the microwave off the bench for instant offense."
Origin
Coined for Vinnie Johnson of the Detroit Pistons in the 1980s.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'microwave' mean in basketball?
It describes a scorer, usually off the bench, who heats up and puts points on the board in a hurry, like a microwave heating food fast.
Where does the basketball term 'microwave' come from?
It was coined for Vinnie Johnson of the 1980s Detroit Pistons, famous for scoring quickly off the bench.
Is being called a 'microwave' a compliment?
Yes. It praises a player's ability to generate instant offense and change a game's momentum in a short burst.
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