Masters of the Game: A Conversational History of the NBA in 75 Legendary Players

Sportswriter Smith (The Jordan Rules) and former NBA coach Jackson (Eleven Rings) reflect on the top basketball players of all time in this entertaining oral history. In honor of the league’s 75th anniversary in 2021, the NBA released a list of the 75 greatest players, selected by a panel of current and former players, coaches, executives, and sportswriters (Smith included). In short chapters, Smith summarizes each player’s career, and he and Jackson exchange thoughts on their skills and most memorable moments. The lineup includes current players who are household names, such as Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James, as well as earlier pioneers like Elgin Baylor, who played for the Lakers between 1958 and 1971 and whom Smith says “basically invented modern NBA offensive basketball.” Throughout, the authors highlight changes to the way the game is played, like the advent of the three-point shot, and get to the heart of what makes a player truly great (many of those selected “loved the challenge more than the acclaim”). Unfortunately, fans will note several errors, such as Smith’s implication that Bill Bridges was involved in a fight during a 1984 game, though that was well after he’d retired. Still, this is a valuable addition to NBA history. (Nov.)