The Odd Couple: Golden State’s Clifford Ray and George Johnson, 1975

The concept of keeping rested bodies in a contest at all times was an Attles’ trademark throughout the 1974-75 season. And the center position, perhaps embodied that theory more than any other.

Pat Williams: How to Succeed in Chicago Without Even Trying, 1972

Pat Williams is just about ready to put an end to all those wonderful little things that Leo Durocher and Red Auerbach have had us believing since childhood. And he’s going to do it without snarling, cursing, or being evil. 

Nate Thurmond: Welcome to the Machine, 1975

Dick Motta pretends not to count the years he will have Thurmond. He thinks instead of the years he didn’t have Thurmond. “I’ll tell you personally how I feel about it,” said Motta. “I’ve been in this league seven years, and I deserved the right to coach Nate Thurmond.”

Norm Van Lier: Stormy Weather, 1978

Even now, as he prepares to join the select circle of athletes who’ve lasted for a decade at the top, Van Lier treasures that advise. “First of all, I was taught to respect my coach and my opponent,” he says. “If a young player can’t learn to do that, he won’t respect himself.”

Norm Van Lier: The Boos and the Cheers, 1978

Van Lier talks about being in the twilight years, but he really doesn’t believe that. He still talks about playing another four years under his present contract agreement with the Bulls.

David Greenwood: A Teammate for All Seasons, 1980, 1984, 1990

David Greenwood would find it funny he’s getting backslaps and handshakes for his five rebound performance Sunday afternoon. As far as he’s concerned, he should have had eight.

Michael Jordan: The Real No. 1 Draft Choice, 1984

Like Van Cliburn coming to Carnegie Hall for the first time or Beverly Sills to the Met, Michael Jordan came to Madison Square Garden as a professional.