Patrick Beverley speaks on embracing his role of instigator throughout his career

Milwaukee Bucks guard Patrick Beverley has carved out a 12-year NBA career out of being the toughest guy on the floor at any time. A literal pest on defense, he has made a name for himself by getting under the skin of his opponents and not backing down from anyone. For Beverley, it's not just about being a nuisance on the court. It's about embracing his role as an instigator and using it to help his team win.

It's a physical game

While the NBA no longer showcases the bruising brand of basketball it once had in the 80s and 90s, Beverley is essentially a throwback to that era. Standing at just 6-foot-2, he is often outweighed and outsized by his opponents. But what he lacks in size, he makes up for in grit and determination.

Patrick prides himself on being a physical player, using his strength and tenacity to disrupt the game of his opponents. He is not afraid to get into the face of the most popular players in the league, which has earned him respect from teammates and coaches alike.

The veteran guard's best qualities were displayed in Milwaukee's recent win against the Chicago Bulls. Apart from tallying 14 points, four rebounds, two assists, and a block, Beverley made his presence felt by getting into minor tussles with DeMar DeRozan and Ayo Dosunmu.

"Basketball is a physical game, obviously," Beverley said.

"I didn't know how big the Milwaukee Bucks vs. the Chicago Bulls was until [Friday]. That's how the game is, though. It's physical. You're going to get hit. I like to be the guy that hits people instead of getting hit."