Description: Isiah Thomas is one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, known for his leadership, tenacity, and ability to perform in clutch moments. Thomas was the leader of the Detroit Pistons' "Bad Boys" teams in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and he played a crucial role in their back-to-back NBA championships. ### Career Overview:- **NBA Debut**: Thomas was drafted as the **2nd overall pick** by the **Detroit Pistons** in the **1981 NBA Draft**.- **Retirement**: He played his final NBA game on **May 11, 1994**, ending his career as a Piston after **13 seasons**. ### Achievements:1. **NBA Championships**: Thomas led the Pistons to **back-to-back NBA championships** in **1989 and 1990**.2. **NBA Finals MVP**: He was named the **NBA Finals MVP in 1990** for his outstanding performance during the Pistons' title run.3. **12-Time NBA All-Star**: Thomas was selected to the **NBA All-Star Game 12 times** (1982–1993), and he was named the **All-Star Game MVP twice** (1984 and 1986).4. **All-NBA Teams**: Thomas was named to the **All-NBA First Team** three times (1984–1986) and the **All-NBA Second Team** twice.5. **Career Averages**: He finished his career with averages of **19.2 points, 9.3 assists, and 3.6 rebounds** per game.6. **Steals and Assists**: Thomas ranks among the all-time leaders in both **assists** (9,061) and **steals** (1,861). ### Style of Play:- **Playmaking**: As a point guard, Thomas was known for his exceptional court vision and playmaking ability. He orchestrated the Pistons' offense with precision, delivering pinpoint passes and setting up his teammates for easy baskets.- **Scoring**: Though primarily a facilitator, Thomas could also score at will, especially in clutch situations. His ability to hit big shots in important games made him a go-to scorer in tight contests.- **Toughness and Leadership**: Thomas embodied the hard-nosed, physical style of the Pistons' "Bad Boys" era. Despite his relatively small stature (6'1"), he was fearless, often driving into the paint against bigger defenders and showing incredible toughness. ### Key Highlights:- **1988 NBA Finals Performance**: In Game 6 of the 1988 Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, despite a severe ankle injury, Thomas scored **25 points in the third quarter**, an iconic moment in Finals history, though the Pistons ultimately lost the series in seven games.- **Bad Boys Pistons**: Thomas was the leader of the notorious "Bad Boys" Pistons, a team known for its physical defense and aggressive style of play. They frequently clashed with some of the NBA's biggest stars, including Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson.- **NBA Rivalries**: The Pistons, under Thomas' leadership, were the main rivals of both the **Boston Celtics** and **Chicago Bulls** in the Eastern Conference. The Pistons were a significant roadblock to Jordan's Bulls before Chicago finally overcame Detroit in 1991. ### Post-Basketball Career:- **Coaching and Front Office**: After retiring, Thomas became a coach and executive. He served as the head coach of the **Indiana Pacers** (2000–2003) and the **New York Knicks** (2006–2008), as well as serving as an executive with the Knicks from 2003 to 2008.- **Other Roles**: Thomas has also been involved in broadcasting, ownership of sports franchises, and entrepreneurial ventures. ### Hall of Fame:Thomas was inducted into the **Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame** in **2000**, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats in basketball. ### Legacy:Isiah Thomas is remembered for his fierce competitiveness, leadership, and ability to elevate his game during the most crucial moments. His blend of scoring, playmaking, and toughness made him one of the premier point guards of his era, and he remains an iconic figure in NBA history.
Price: 10 USD
Location: Olathe, Kansas
End Time: 2024-11-06T23:05:57.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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Item Specifics
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Type: Sports Trading Card
League: National Basketball Association (NBA)
Sport: Basketball
Autographed: No
Set: 1987-88 Fleer
Manufacturer: Fleer
Team: Detroit Pistons
Player/Athlete: Isaiah Thomas, Isiah Thomas
Card Number: 106
Season: 1987-88