Isiah Thomas, a legendary point guard himself, recently weighed in on the debate surrounding the greatest point guards of all time, notably omitting Stephen Curry from his list.
“I think the list starts with Magic and Oscar. Us little guys, we got no shot against Magic and Oscar.”
Thomas began by acknowledging the dominance of Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson, highlighting the challenge faced by smaller guards like himself in comparison to the towering figures of Johnson and Robertson.
“When you get the little guys right… I’m the little guy. I say that because the way I had to play in the era that I played in the way I had to win and the people that I beat, I don’t think any of them can do the things I was able to with my team.”
Reflecting on his own career and the era in which he played, Thomas asserted his place among the elite point guards, citing his style of play, his ability to lead his team to victory, and his triumphs over formidable opponents. He emphasized the unique circumstances of his era and the unparalleled achievements he attained with his team.
“And the 4th person, I love John Stockton. I look at what John has done in the NBA, you have to look at those numbers and be like damn. I don’t think anyone will touch his assists numbers and I don’t know if anyone will ever get to his steals records. So my four guys – Magic, Oscar, Myself and John.” (43:45)
Thomas then turned his attention to John Stockton, expressing admiration for Stockton’s remarkable career and his record-breaking accomplishments in both assists and steals. Recognizing Stockton’s enduring impact on the game, Thomas praised his consistency and longevity in the NBA.
Despite his high regard for Magic, Oscar, himself, and Stockton, Thomas notably omitted Stephen Curry from his list of the greatest point guards. Curry, known for revolutionizing the game with his unparalleled shooting prowess, 4 NBA titles, and two MVP awards, was conspicuously absent from Thomas’s rankings.
Thomas’s remarks sparked discussion and debate among basketball enthusiasts, with many questioning Curry’s exclusion from the esteemed list. Curry’s influence on the modern game, his unprecedented shooting ability, and his numerous accolades have solidified his place among the greatest point guards in NBA history.
While Thomas’s perspective offers insight into the criteria he values in evaluating point guards, Curry’s absence underscores the subjectivity inherent in such debates and the diversity of opinions within the basketball community regarding the greatest players of all time.
Oscar Robertson Is Often Forgotten In Greatest PG Debates
In the ongoing debate over the greatest point guard of all time, two names consistently dominate the conversation: Magic Johnson and Stephen Curry. However, amidst the fervent discussions, one legendary figure often finds himself overshadowed and underappreciated – Oscar Robertson.
Nicknamed “The Big O,” Robertson’s impact on the game of basketball is immense, yet his contributions are sometimes overlooked in contemporary discussions about the greatest point guards. Born in 1938, Robertson emerged as a basketball prodigy during his collegiate career at the University of Cincinnati, where he achieved widespread acclaim for his exceptional skills and athleticism.
Upon entering the NBA in 1960, Robertson wasted no time in making his mark on the league. Throughout his illustrious 14-year career, Robertson amassed an impressive array of accomplishments and accolades. A versatile and dominant player, Robertson boasted an extraordinary skill set that set him apart from his peers as he averaged 25.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists while shooting 48.5% from the field.
One of Robertson’s most remarkable achievements came during the 1961-1962 season when he averaged a triple-double, an unprecedented feat that remains unmatched to this day. His statistical prowess, combined with his leadership on the court, solidified his reputation as one of the most formidable players in NBA history.
With 12 NBA All-Star selections, including nine appearances on the All-NBA First Team, Robertson consistently showcased his exceptional talent and impact on the court. He was honored with the NBA Most Valuable Player award in 1964 and earned the title of NBA Rookie of the Year in 1961. Robertson’s crowning achievement came in 1971 when he led the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA championship.
Robertson’s impact transcended individual accolades, as he played a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers in professional basketball and advocating for player rights. His legacy as a trailblazer and pioneer in the sport continues to resonate with fans and players alike.
Despite his remarkable achievements and undeniable influence on the game, Robertson’s name is sometimes omitted or overlooked in contemporary discussions about the greatest point guards. However, those who understand the depth of his contributions recognize Robertson as a true legend of the game, deserving of the utmost respect and recognition in the pantheon of basketball greatness.
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