Bill Laimbeer – From Way Downtown

Bill Laimbeer: The Interview, 1991

He’s easily the most-despised player in the NBA, and one of the most-hated athletes ever to play professional sports. That is, when he’s not performing in front of the home crowd.

Bill Laimbeer’s Greatest Hits, 1988

We can argue with some of what he does, but not with the consistency with which he does it. Laimbeer has played in 646 consecutive regular-season games. He has started 522 in a row. Those are the longest active streaks in the league.

Detroit Pistons: Called for Travelling, 1982

Dawn is breaking over another airport runway. The Pistons, on their way back to Detroit, have been up since 5:30 a.m., and they straggle down the nearly deserted corridor leading to their gate, suit bags slung over their shoulders, a duffel bag in one hand and a newspaper in the other.

Bill Laimbeer: Not Supposed to Be This Good, 1984

“Part of my success is that I anticipate shots well. On offense, for instance, I know my teammates. I know that when a guy is in a certain area, I can count on him shooting and can adjust my position accordingly. I also watch the ball.”