Synopses & Reviews
Isiah Lord Thomas has dedicated his life to professional basketball. He honed his skills in Chicago's South Side, went to college, signed an NBA contract, joined the Detroit Pistons, turned them into league champions in 1989 and 1990, and was named one of the NBA's 50 greatest players. Thomas became general manager and vice-president of the Toronto Raptors when they entered the NBA in 1995-96. In 1999, he bought the Continental Basketball Association, which went bankrupt in 2001. Now, hes back in the game as president of the New York Knicks, who compete every night in the sports-media center of the world. Here, writer Paul Challen examines Thomas's life in depth as a terrific player, as the man who introduced professional basketball to Canadian fans, and as the often-controversial coach and executive.
Synopsis
This revised edition of a landmark biography follows the life of basketball star Isiah Thomas from his childhood on Chicago's South Side to his current position as president of the New York Knicks. His entire professional and athletic career is covered, including his successful collegiate career with Indiana University and his role in turning the Detroit Pistons' squad from one of the league's laughingstocks to an NBA powerhouse. All aspects of Thomas's contributions are examined to reveal how he revolutionized the game with his energy and skill, introduced professional basketball to Canada, and transitioned to his controversial roles off the court as coach and executive.
About the Author
Paul Challen is a sportswriter who has contributed to the "National Post," "Slam" magazine, "Toronto Life" magazine, and the "Toronto Star." He is the coauthor of "Gardens of Shame" and the author of "The Book of Isiah," "Get Dutch! A Biography of Elmore Leonard," and "Inside the West Wing." He lives in Hamilton, Ontario.