Al Bianchi – From Way Downtown

The Rise and Fall of Mark Jackson, 1991

Jackson, a firebrand of emotion, delights the Garden crowd with his dazzling plays. He is praised for exuberance. He is later cursed for hot-dogging.

Warren Armstrong (Jabali): Like a Rock, 1969-1975

“Warren plays like he was 6-foot-6 or 6-foot-7. It’s not all jumping ability, either. He can jump with anybody, but [when] he gets around the ball, he’s got timing and he’s strong.”

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!

Kyle Macy: No Sophomore Jinx, 1982

“This kid is probably going to double his scoring average this year, and that’s what everyone will talk about. But as a former guard myself, who always worked at stopping the other guy, I’m really impressed with how much more defense Kyle is playing this season.”

Chewing the Fat with Fatty Taylor

Believe me, I stopped guys. I didn’t slow them down; I stopped them. I didn’t think nobody could score on me—until I ran into a guy named Calvin Murphy.

Charlie Scott: The Next Big O, 1972

“He makes all the big plays,” said Lou Carnesecca, the fiery coach-general manager of the Nets. “He reminds me so much of Oscar Robertson that I hate to think what he’s going to do as he gains pro experience.”

Lenny Wilkens: Player Lenny Wins Coach’s Crop, 1971

Lenny Wilkens, a handsome sort, smiles readily but speaks restrainedly, in a low voice, in sincere tone.

Bob Rule: Sonic Boomer, 1970

Bob Rule is having an interesting existence as the big man in the lives of the Seattle SuperSonics. His development in two years has been monumental.

Hal Greer: What Wilt Means to the 76ers, 1966

Despite Wilt’s great contributions to the 76ers as a player, his helping the club and the players to belong to the city has to be the most-important boost he gave us.

Oscar Robertson: Why He’s the Best Ever, 1968

Says a long-time basketball expert, “If Oscar walked into your neighborhood playground for a pick-up game, he’d probably get his 30 and not much more. He’s the most consistent star ever.”