Jamaal Wilkes: The Silent Assassin, 1980

Wilkes is basketball’s version of Perry Como, the velvet singer whose trademark was the epitome of ultra-relaxed, super-casual, laidback stage presence. Wilkes comes across the same way, on and off the court.

Michael Brooks: Tough Franchise, Tough Luck, 1982, 1988

“I’m still young,” Brooks said. “I’m not going to give up until I look myself in the mirror and say I can’t play anymore. I love the game so much.”

Earvin Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: How the Magic Really Works, 1981

When the Lakers boarded the plane for the flight to Philadelphia, Magic sat in the front row, left aisle—the seat usually occupied by Abdul-Jabbar. Magic looked back at Westhead and said, “Guess you have a new Big Fella, Coach.”

Denver Nuggets: On the Rocks, 1992

After the worst season in the franchise’s 24-year history, the Denver Nuggets didn’t produce a highlights film; they issued a formal apology.