The Dream Team: It’s been twenty years since the greatest basketball team ever was assembled, representing the USA in the Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. To this day no one has come forth and say arguably one of the best point guards to ever play the game was left off that team.
Isaiah Thomas- better known around the game as Zeek – was overlooked not because of his play on the court but how he was perceived by those who disliked his style of play. Isaiah was a winner on every level – winning a NCAA title under Bobby Knight, a master motivator.
Twenty years later, after watching the special on NBA-TV commemorating the Dream Team and how they were assembled, it was evident that the great Michael Jordan was a key factor in why Isaiah was not selected. It just goes to show you how much envy there was between the Bulls and the Pistons.
Former Chicago Bull Scottie Pippen said he didn’t want Isaiah on the team. He felt Isaiah was the reason why the Pistons were considered a dirty team during there reign in the NBA. The Pistons won back-to-back championships in 1990 and 1991. During both of their championship runs the Pistons eliminated Jordan and the Bulls.
Why do we love to hate those who have done it their way, not following the “process” that America feels is the right way? No matter how we judge Isaiah – he will be remembered for his competitive spirit and the fire that burns inside the heart of a champion.
Vernon McKenzie: PureSportsNY