Revisiting the NBA’s ‘Greatest Ever Season’: When the Game was War
The 1987-88 NBA season remains etched in basketball history as one of the most thrilling and pivotal periods. Rich Cohen's latest book, When the Game Was War: The NBA’s Greatest Season, delves into the intensity, excellence, and groundbreaking star performances that defined this iconic year.
1. The Critical Moment: Pistons vs. Lakers
1.1 The Fateful Game 6
The book opens with a nail-biting recount of Game 6 of the 1988 NBA finals, highlighting the controversial foul call on Bill Laimbeer and its game-changing impact on the Detroit Pistons and the Los Angeles Lakers.
2. Unparalleled Standard: Hall of Famers Shine
2.1 Top 20 Players of All Time
Cohen emphasizes the season's richness with Hall of Famers, asserting that it showcased the crème de la crème of basketball talent.
3. Team Focus: Lakers, Pistons, Bulls, and Celtics
3.1 Showtime Lakers: Magic’s Triumph
A spotlight on Magic Johnson's Showtime Lakers securing their second consecutive championship.
3.2 Pistons' Near Miss
Thomas's Pistons, falling short in '87-88 but roaring back to win the next two titles.
3.3 Emergence of Chicago Bulls
The up-and-coming Chicago Bulls of Michael Jordan, awaiting their historic run in the following decade.
3.4 Celtics' Decline
The decline of the Boston Celtics' dynasty, mainly due to age and injury.
4. Dramatic Finals: Friendships and Rivalries
4.1 Johnson vs. Thomas Saga
The book unravels the drama between Magic Johnson and Isiah Thomas, friends turned rivals during the championship series.
5. Clutch Performances: Beyond the Leaders
5.1 Injury and Determination
Despite injuries, stars like Isiah Thomas and Magic Johnson deliver memorable performances, contributing to the drama of the finals.
6. Beyond the Big Four: League's Varied Talent
6.1 Dominique Wilkins vs. Larry Bird
An epic playoff duel between Dominique Wilkins and Larry Bird adds to the season's brilliance.
6.2 Other Standout Players
Highlighting the talents of Karl Malone, John Stockton, Patrick Ewing, Clyde Drexler, and Hakeem Olajuwon during the same period.
7. Engaging Writing Style: A Blend of Sports and Culture
7.1 Engaging Narration
Cohen's engaging writing style, blending sports narrative with cultural references, adds depth to the on-court and off-court stories.
8. Player Stories: Beyond the Game
8.1 Unconventional Choices in Retirement
Exploring the post-basketball lives of players like Adrian Dantley and Dennis Rodman, showcasing unique and unconventional career paths.
8.2 Dennis Rodman's Unique Journey
Detailing Rodman's colorful post-Pistons career, from joining the Bulls dynasty to his high-profile relationships and ventures.
9. Defensive Strategies: The Jordan Rules
9.1 The Jordan Rules Unveiled
Cohen unveils the Pistons' defensive strategy, the Jordan Rules, shedding light on the tactics used to counter the sensational Michael Jordan.
10. Team Strength: Depth Wins Championships
10.1 Pistons' Depth Advantage
Analyzing the strength of the Pistons in depth, with a lineup that spread scoring across the team, a key factor in their success.
11. Strategy Against Powerhouses: Out-bullying the Bullies
11.1 Pistons vs. Celtics: A Physical Battle
The Pistons' strategy to build a team tougher than the Celtics, aiming to out-bully the bullies and topple the reigning champions.
12. Controversies On and Off the Court
12.1 Off-Court Controversies
Cohen tackles controversies involving players, including the fallout between Magic Johnson and Isiah Thomas after Magic's HIV diagnosis, shedding light on the personal lives of Celtics' Robert Parish and Dennis Johnson.
13. Respite Amid Turmoil: Basketball Excellence Prevails
13.1 A Respite from Geopolitical Tensions
Cohen acknowledges the controversies but highlights the on-court action as a respite from the era's geopolitical tensions.
14. Best Basketball Era Ever: A Personal Perspective
14.1 Basketball Excellence Personified
Cohen shares his perspective on the '87-88 season, asserting it as the best era of basketball excellence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, When the Game Was War vividly captures the essence of the NBA's greatest season, celebrating the players, the drama, and the unparalleled talent that defined this historic period.
FAQs
Q: Why does Cohen consider the 1987-88 season the greatest?
- A: Cohen emphasizes the exceptional talent, intense rivalries, and clutch performances that made this season stand out.
Q: How did the Pistons' depth contribute to their success?
- A: The Pistons' strength in depth allowed them to spread scoring across the team, a key factor in winning championships.
Q: What is the significance of the Jordan Rules?
- A: The Jordan Rules were the Pistons' defensive strategy to counter Michael Jordan, letting him score for most of the game and then adopting aggressive tactics late in the match.
Q: How did off-court controversies impact the players mentioned in the book?
- A: The book explores controversies involving Magic Johnson, Isiah Thomas, Robert Parish, and Dennis Johnson, providing insights into their personal lives.
Q: Why does Cohen believe the '87-88 season was a respite from geopolitical tensions?
- A: Despite off-court controversies, Cohen sees the on-court excellence of that season as a refreshing break from broader geopolitical issues.
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