Author Archives: bobkuska

The NBA’s Five Most-Underrated Players, 1968

If we missed your favorite underrated player, we’re sorry. But it just proves that you’re right—he’s so underrated, even the experts never got to him!

Jimmy Walker: Play It Again Sam, 1968

“All I saw or heard was how inconsistent I was playing. But the only way I can play consistently is to have consistent time, and for the last two years, it hasn’t been.”

James Silas: Captain Late, 1981

Silas is unassuming and never has let the publicity drain his enthusiasm for his profession. Though he exhibits a confident gait, cockiness never ruled his dealings with fans or the news media. 

Hubie Brown: Inside the Atlanta Hawks’ Hellraiser, 1980

“We give them an opportunity to display their talent,” Brown said. “In return, they have to give us maximum concentration, intensity, and their physical talent. If they do that, they won’t hear about it. If they don’t, they have to face the consequences.”

John Brisker: ‘Super Rook’ and His Smashing Left Hook, 1970

So, Brisker has chosen to live by the left hook. “A couple of times it’s helped to get some breathing room when I belted guys,” he explains. “Some I try to shake off my back, but mostly, I get into fights by hustling for the ball, being aggressive. But, really, I have to quit the scuffling.”