The NBA’s success demonstrates the importance of implementing sound business strategies and adapting to changing market trends, as well as understanding the value of investing in a strong fan base and embracing digital media. All-Star Alley Inside the NBA’s Greatest Games is a must-read for any basketball fan. The book, written by veteran sportswriter Ian Thomsen, takes readers on a journey through some of the most memorable All-Star games in NBA history. Thomsen has a unique perspective on the games, having covered the NBA for over three decades. He provides insights and behind-the-scenes stories that only a seasoned journalist could deliver. The book covers All-Star games from the 1980s all the way up to the present day. Thomsen has interviewed dozens of players, coaches, and executives who were involved in these games, and their stories provide a fascinating look at the evolution of the NBA over the past four decades. One of the strengths of the book is Thomsen’s ability to weave together all the different storylines that come together in an All-Star game.
On the one hand, there are the individual players vying for MVP honors and trying to outdo each other with highlight-reel plays. On the other hand, there are the team strategies and rivalries that play out over the course of the game. And then there are the various subplots and personalities that make each game unique. Perhaps the best example of Thomsen’s storytelling skills is his coverage of the 1987 All-Star game in Seattle. This was the game where Michael Jordan famously won the dunk contest wearing his iconic Air Jordan shoes. Thomsen takes readers NBA behind the scenes of the dunk contest, revealing Jordan’s thought process and the strategy that went into each of his dunks. He also highlights the tension between Jordan and Dominique Wilkins, who was widely considered the best dunker in the league at the time. But the book is not just about Michael Jordan and the 1980s. Thomsen covers a wide range of All-Star games, from the high-scoring affairs of the early 2000s to the low-scoring, defense-oriented games of the modern era.
He also discusses the impact that globalization has had on the All-Star game, with players from around the world now playing prominent roles. Thomsen is not afraid to take a critical look at the All-Star game, either. He acknowledges that the game has its flaws, particularly in terms of defense and effort. But he also argues that the game is still an important part of NBA culture, providing fans with a chance to see their favorite players on a big stage and allowing players to showcase their skills in a unique setting. Overall, All-Star Alley Inside the NBA’s Greatest Games is a must-read for any NBA fan. Thomsen’s storytelling skills and insider knowledge combine to create a book that is both entertaining and informative. Whether you’re a fan of the old-school All-Star games of the 1980s or the high-scoring affairs of the modern era, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this book. It truly captures the essence of what makes the All-Star game such a special event in the NBA calendar.
