Stephen Jackson and Gerald Wallace: The NBA's Dynamic Duo

Stephen Jackson and Gerald Wallace couldn't be more different in their personalities, mannerisms, and the unique way in which they approach their craft, but their contrasting ways have formed a highly effective bond.

Wallace comes across as meek, soft-spoken, and a person with a quiet spirit while Jackson is out-spoken, boisterous, and a media darling in the city of Charlotte.

Journalists from the Queen City are still talking about a Jackson quote in which he said, "I make love to pressure," which was a relevant statement considering he had just closed out a contest with two clutch free throws.

The two view their roles on the court in the same manner their personalities suggest, as Wallace garners attention with his athleticism and hustle while Jackson is just as athletic, but much more vocal in his efforts.

Make no mistake though, they complement one another perfectly and quite possibly are the most talented and versatile duo in the NBA today. Their efforts have the Bobcats poised to make the playoffs for the first time in their brief history and they are erasing Charlotte's reputation as the team no one wants to play for.

Wallace is the mainstay in Charlotte as he is one of the last original Bobcats who has matured into a special player before our very eyes while the deal for Jackson was more of a crapshoot.

The Bobcats weren't sure what to expect when they traded for Jackson, but his acquisition has turned into arguably the best move the franchise has ever made and he has blended seamlessly into Larry Brown's scheme.

Brown is not known as a player's coach, but he is known as one of the best teachers in the game, as well as a person who allows the merits of a player's skill speak for itself.

Brown's system emphasizes defense and team play, and the addition of Jackson has improved Charlotte in both areas as well as giving the team a superior offensive player who can create his own scoring opportunities.

There has been none of the tension that was evident in Jackson's stint in Golden State because he and Brown share a mutual respect and Jackson understands Brown's vision for the team and adheres to it.

His willingness to adapt has improved team chemistry and has allowed Wallace to grow into a uniquely dominant player without the strain of carrying the team, but still impacting the game in every element.

His size allows him to guard various positions and his athleticism has accounted for numerous blocks and countless steals as he has excelled on the defensive end of the floor.

In fact, both Wallace and Jackson have thrived on defense due to their versatility, which allows them to freely shift to players on the perimeter or in the post.

The Bobcats have always been a decent defensive team under Brown, but with Jackson in the fold they have the potential to be great. Plus, he gives them something else they were previously missing: a distinct edge and attitude.

The Bobcats now have a firm belief they are capable of competing in every game they play and, due to the all-around skills of their two best players, that belief has evolved into a determined confidence.

A confidence that makes them a terror on the defensive end and a potential highlight reel on the offensive end. The type of confidence that should make other teams in the East wary of facing them in the postseason.