Isiah L. Thomas' Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Speech

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  • Опубліковано 28 лис 2024

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  • @johngallo1824
    @johngallo1824 7 років тому +515

    Will never forget him playing with one foot , This Laker Fan gives him a standing ovation 👏👏👏

    • @ahnoldshort5500
      @ahnoldshort5500 5 років тому +34

      Yeah what a BEAST he may have had more heart any other player ever

    • @giantkiller56
      @giantkiller56 4 роки тому +18

      Maaaaan! He gave LA the business that night. If it wasn't for some BS call at the end, that would've given Zeke the perfect championship ending.

    • @trentonayershandsoffire3620
      @trentonayershandsoffire3620 4 роки тому +7

      So is this Laker

    • @capitanfuturo594
      @capitanfuturo594 4 роки тому +5

      Los Angeles Lakers win that finals in 1988 whem Isiah Thomas injured in game 6.

    • @nathanielthomas2502
      @nathanielthomas2502 3 роки тому +3

      Ty..a lot of people forget or don't know

  • @meharinationsportspodcast2582
    @meharinationsportspodcast2582 10 років тому +603

    This man deserves more recognition as one of the all time greats. Regardless on his controversies with the top stars during the 80's and early 90's, this man showed heart, determination, desire, leadership, and well every time he stepped on the court.
    His 25 point 3rd quarter performance on the sprained right ankle is perhaps the most courageous performance in the history of sports. Only a few stars can equal what Isiah did in almost leading the Pistons to the championship. He's a winner and was jobbed out of the Dream Team in 92 not just because of Jordan.

    • @aleksandrpondios
      @aleksandrpondios 10 років тому +21

      For those who followed the game during the eighties he is one of the greatest ever,Isiah had it all,at least the same class with John Stockton,if not better.

    • @meharinationsportspodcast2582
      @meharinationsportspodcast2582 10 років тому +36

      No disrespect to Stockton. But, Isiah was a greater PG then he was despite setting records in assists and steals. With a National Championship and 2 World Championship he's in another stratosphere.

    • @meharinationsportspodcast2582
      @meharinationsportspodcast2582 10 років тому +17

      gerizzyYMcrew I'm not gonna waste my time on a dumb ignorant ass like you. It's obvious you do know anything about basketball so I won't waste my time responding back because its not worth it.

    • @jeezydogpsn
      @jeezydogpsn 10 років тому +15

      gerizzyYMcrew are you stupid?

    • @jeezydogpsn
      @jeezydogpsn 10 років тому +5

      y u hate the greatest pg ever

  • @mobetta2092
    @mobetta2092 4 роки тому +80

    RIP Mrs. Mary Thomas and thank you.
    I grew up in Detroit and we all felt we knew Mrs. Mary Thomas because Isiah was always eager to share with the public how special she was to him. I watched the Disney Movie, "A Mother's Courage, The Mary Thomas Story," countless times as a kid...still one of my favorite movies.
    Zeke is my favorite player of all-time, and his wife Lynn Thomas is such a beautiful and classy lady....btw, his brother Larry would visit high schools on the east side of Detroit in the early 90s to talk with students to encourage us to do great things.
    The Thomas family will forever be good anywhere at anytime in Detroit.

    • @TheTruthness2011
      @TheTruthness2011 2 роки тому

      So-arrogant.
      Most people in Detroit don't follow basketball. Basketball has created false-hope for so-many young people. Basketballers are disgusting the way they live. Nearly, all-of-them betray their wives and all-of-them will promote harmful products to sustain their disgusting, un-natural lives
      🌳💙.

    • @dougcody-nk2fp
      @dougcody-nk2fp 10 місяців тому +1

      My favorite in any sport...all❤

  • @ezekielmajor5511
    @ezekielmajor5511 8 років тому +335

    I'll never forget that playoff game when he played with the injured leg. He refused to leave the game and it was one the best NBA single performances ever.

    • @tiffanycardot4966
      @tiffanycardot4966 7 років тому +3

      Ezekiel Major ya momma

    • @davidtargos6278
      @davidtargos6278 5 років тому +5

      Ezekiel Major sadly that’s the main reasons why he had a short career

    • @nelsonrodriguez6639
      @nelsonrodriguez6639 4 роки тому +2

      May 16, 1980 In the NBA Finals Championship Series, point guard Earvin “Magic” Johnson as a rookie scores 42 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists to lead the Lakers to victory and was named Most Valuable Player of the finals. That is the best NBA single performance ever. No other great, as a rookie has had a better NBA single performance.

    • @nelsonrodriguez6639
      @nelsonrodriguez6639 4 роки тому +5

      Magic Johnson also played all 5 positions during that NBA Finals Championship game, as a rookie that is insane when you think of the top 10 players of all time. Nobody could pull that off their rookie year, not Michael Jordan, not Larry Bird, Not Kobe Bryant, Not Lebron James, that may never happen again.

    • @danielabatabogdanov8586
      @danielabatabogdanov8586 4 роки тому +1

      Reminds me of cp3 in that game 7

  • @jeffgroth5032
    @jeffgroth5032 8 років тому +141

    Thank you Isiah Thomas and thank you Chuck Daly for what you did for Michigan. You may not have wanted to come here originally but you made Detroit so proud and relevant when you were here. How could we as fans not respect guys like you forever because of that? You guys are amazing..... Thank you thank you thank you...... RIP Chuck...... we miss you as a Michigan family.....

    • @lukegottleber7013
      @lukegottleber7013 8 років тому +1

      Jeff Groth Daley

    • @cynlev
      @cynlev 8 років тому +14

      I couldn't have said it better myself. As a native Detroiter growing up in the 80s, Isiah and the Pistons brought me so much pride and joy!

    • @jimries625
      @jimries625 2 роки тому

      Nice. Jeff. 🤝

    • @wildworld33
      @wildworld33 Рік тому

      A legend

  • @toddsands6000
    @toddsands6000 9 років тому +151

    Isiah Thomas was clearly one of the greatest competitors winners in basketball period. In my humble opinion, Isiah is among the inner circle of GOATs. Isiah is there on the same level as Magic Johnson, Bob Cousy and other great Point Guards in the history of the game of basketball when It came to basketball I.Q. and leadership.

    • @samiahmed6875
      @samiahmed6875 7 років тому +11

      He beat them in their primes.

    • @toddsands6000
      @toddsands6000 4 роки тому

      @Devi Lisa Easy....I can respect opinions, but we are all too sensitive. My perspective was simply from a point guard's point of view. Cerebral! The whole basketball world knows that the early Celtics success were constructed around Bill Russell. But as a point guard, Bill Russell is NOT dribbling the ball up the court. And to correct you further, Bob Cousy has a strong basketball IQ (I personally reference greats in the present tense). His basketball IQ is definitely better than yours, mine or any other non-pro. Again, I'm talking from a point guard perspective. I'm not a Boston fan. But overall, I'm a basketball fan. And history doesn't lie. Cousy is recognized as one the best point guards in NBA history. Isiah would easily play in his era - I get that. I like Isiah simply because he's a true point guard. But I can say the same thing about how you compare Isiah to Bob Cousy with another point guard great. In your words, Magic Johnson would prison rape Isiah Thomas straight up. I know it doesn't sound fair. And I don't like talking in that way. But these arguments can go on and on if we base arguments on your terms.

    • @toddsands6000
      @toddsands6000 4 роки тому +2

      @Devi Lisa Ahh,....I was wondering where the bitterness came from. In retrospect, I'm sorry that your grandfather did not get the opportunity to play. I do mean that. But we can't change history. Those things happened, and it's set in stone. Can't do anything about what happened in the past. I understand your frustrations. Let's be real, a Boston Celtics fan or fans broke into Bill Russell's home and defecated on his bed. That story wasn't immediately posted in the news. Especially when the Boston media controlled everything within that area. All, I'm saying are things from a point guard's perspective. I used Cousy simply because of the amount of championships he helped win. I am not a Boston Celtics fan. Never was. But hypothetically, if more black players were integrated into the league back in that era, would it make too much of a difference? The coaching definitely would have limited the play of black players during that era. The1960's and even the early 1970's preached an organized team game. And unfortunately, the Celtics were the best at it. Heck, I've heard stories and rumors that some personnel from Boston Celtics management helped influence the rules committee. In my opinion, I though Jerry West was greater than Bob Cousy. Unfortunately, Cousy has more rings - unfair or not. Basketball during that time was predominantly white. Let's be honest, fans at that time were not ready for black players. I'm glad I didn't grow up in that era. And we still have a whole lot of work to do now. Again, it was an honest comparison on comparing champions from my perspective. Regardless of damn race, I look at the game of basketball as much as possible without the damn race debate. Did race play a factor? You're damn right it did. But I just want to discuss basketball - "The Game! Overall, I respect your take.

    • @toddsands6000
      @toddsands6000 4 роки тому +1

      @Devi Lisa Just deviating a bit from the basketball discussion, my late great uncle earned a "Q" Card to have the right to compete with professional golfers. But he could not play in the PGA as no sponsor would endorse him because he was a man of color. And clubs throughout the nation and world would not allow people of color access on their links. We all know about the history of Golf and people of color. Again, I respect your perspective, about your negative views of Bob Cousy, and I respect mine as well.

    • @johnnyboy7538
      @johnnyboy7538 2 роки тому +1

      I agree.

  • @olijadu
    @olijadu 4 роки тому +82

    Great speaker, story teller, no prepared speech. The reason s lot of the guys don't like him is because he is brutally honest, and many people don't like brutal honesty, they like facade

    • @rasheedahking3197
      @rasheedahking3197 4 роки тому +8

      This gotta be the most accurate thing about him ive ever heard. He's very genuine. When honest people arent going to like you.

    • @joseaviles673
      @joseaviles673 4 роки тому +5

      I want to say isiah Thomas is underrated and overlooked because of magic and bird what people fail to understand he had to go thru the bird and magic gauntlet to win the chip and for all you Jordan bandwagoners isiah has a better win loss record against jordan. Greatest performance by one man injured in the finals he refuse to quit

    • @stacyhunt1173
      @stacyhunt1173 4 роки тому +1

      Oh and dont forget they were dirty players

    • @edmerc92
      @edmerc92 4 роки тому +2

      The funny thing is that all these same players voted him to be the president of the players' association. If if they didn't like him, they still respected his intelligence.

    • @GeeVoo
      @GeeVoo 4 роки тому +1

      they dont like him because jordan dont like him and they are MJ dickriders

  • @RGT4285
    @RGT4285 3 роки тому +27

    I can listen to the speech of Isiah the whole day! He is an orator and so spontaneous! He speaks from his heart!

  • @kudabeen
    @kudabeen 8 років тому +148

    could listen to him speak on basketball for hours...the most captivating, intelligent descriptive and honest basketball mind outside of Bill Russell to ever do it.

    • @TheWebmasterJL1
      @TheWebmasterJL1 8 років тому +5

      WORD!

    • @mmafan2223
      @mmafan2223 5 років тому +3

      very well said thank you

    • @danielabatabogdanov8586
      @danielabatabogdanov8586 4 роки тому +5

      Agree .. to bad the mainstream sportsmedia allows any former basketball player to just say nothing on TV.

    • @yaotmacfrancis
      @yaotmacfrancis 2 роки тому

      too bad he was a dbag. so many of his peers hated him during his playing days.

    • @superdopehiphop
      @superdopehiphop 2 роки тому

      @@yaotmacfrancis you mean MJ & Pippen?!?!

  • @valetudo1974
    @valetudo1974 10 років тому +57

    On of the best speeches Ive heard in a long time... Much respect to Isiah Thomas...

  • @letterstomyson195
    @letterstomyson195 6 років тому +137

    most underrated under appreciated superstar EVER! He beat Michael, Magic and Bird IN THE SAME POSTSEASON to win his first ring! NO LOWER THAN 2ND GREATEST POINT GUARD EVER IF NOT THE GREATEST!

    • @darylshackelford3673
      @darylshackelford3673 4 роки тому +9

      FACTS!!!!!!

    • @nuftis
      @nuftis 4 роки тому +10

      He's not better than magic but he was fantastic. I dont agree with things he's said and done but he deserved a spot on that dream team. Incredible player and leader

    • @tarnopol
      @tarnopol 3 роки тому +1

      Good point. Man, was there mad talent in the game back then!

    • @iceplayer3244
      @iceplayer3244 3 роки тому +10

      @@nicholaslee3241 Curry is my favorite player too but (GOAT in shooting)... Man they don't play on the same era. And this guy is 1.84m whereas Curry is 1.91m... Also Steph isn't clutch enough.

    • @iceplayer3244
      @iceplayer3244 3 роки тому +1

      @@nicholaslee3241 I didn't say that he's not. I said that he's not ENOUGH. Ofc he's clutch bcs he convert all the FTs on the money time. And he already show some clutch shot (and especially a lot of daggers) but u can't compare him with KD for example. If MJ is 20/20 to clutch, Curry is maybe 14~16/20. That's my point.

  • @PaulHowardNetwork
    @PaulHowardNetwork 4 роки тому +42

    Isaiah's mother is such a beautiful Lady! Thank you Isaiah for being such a great example!

    • @TL2354
      @TL2354 10 місяців тому

      Isiah. His name is in the title and you still got it wrong

    • @hesrey6734
      @hesrey6734 2 місяці тому

      Example of what?

  • @notmine4268
    @notmine4268 Рік тому +7

    Just met him in person 10-6-23 at work. He’s just a super nice person and that smile can be seen a mile away, the same as he had on the court: I couldn’t stop smiling myself! Awesome!!!

    • @Mark-n4t9n
      @Mark-n4t9n 10 місяців тому +1

      Please! Tell us more. Very interested!!!

    • @badsolja1
      @badsolja1 9 місяців тому +1

      That’s some gay shit
      Wow good for you

  • @miguelperkins7997
    @miguelperkins7997 6 років тому +39

    This guy was special, mentally tough with that god given talent and the will to be great. Some controversy but hell nobody is perfect. Zeke, loved watching you play and admired how well you did LEAD!

  • @gustinn3509
    @gustinn3509 3 роки тому +12

    Thank you Isiah for giving me, Detroit and the entire state of Michigan, over a decade of memories that will last a lifetime... we are all bonded, and branded with the scars of the tough times and the joys of the better times... those that were not there and were not a part of it will never get it... thanks for the ride.

  • @MrAiden3121
    @MrAiden3121 11 років тому +29

    I am a Celtics fan and i love Isiah he was a Great Leader and Player well deserved SHOULD HAVE BEEN ON THE DREAM TEAM

  • @eurozone69
    @eurozone69 8 років тому +298

    Who's on a hall of fame binge?

  • @kedrick71
    @kedrick71 8 років тому +161

    I have to admit I didn't like him much during his playing days, only because I loved the Bulls. This is one of the most moving speeches I've ever heard. I love the fact that he loves his Mom, being that I lost mine in 03. I love the man that you are Isaiah (happens to be my son's name too). You're a good man.

    • @mikes3827
      @mikes3827 6 років тому +9

      +kedrick Y I admit I also didn't like him much, but only because I was (and am) a diehard Celtics fan, so I'm with you there. And there were some on-the-court things he did that I thought were uncalled for, but I think that was ultimately just Isiah's ultra-competitiveness more than anything. But even when he was playing for the Pistons, he always seemed like he was a good person. His smile lit up the room, and you could tell it was genuine, and that's where I like him. (BTW, I still hate Laimbeer's dirty playing self.)

    • @calvinotto7440
      @calvinotto7440 4 роки тому +8

      Same here, grew up a bulls fan and couldn't stand Isiah Thomas. Only because he was giving my bulls hell during those "BadBoys" Era. But I'm touched and moved by your speech Zeke..

    • @braxtonthomas6194
      @braxtonthomas6194 4 роки тому +1

      Beautifully put. ❤

    • @mandogarcia7905
      @mandogarcia7905 2 роки тому +1

      I also didn't like Isiah against my bulls but I respected his game and toughness and how he grew up in chicago and succeeded thru it all. Also he is from Chi town and that's how his toughness was born thru...mad respect.

    • @terrellgrant1570
      @terrellgrant1570 Рік тому

      Facts

  • @toksaden5951
    @toksaden5951 8 років тому +55

    Isiah Thomas style of playing was what got me hooked to watching Basketball. The team played like men.He's one of the best point guard to ever lay hands on a basketball.

    • @aarondigby9859
      @aarondigby9859 2 роки тому

      Curly Neal of the Harlem Globetrotters is an alumni of Johnson C. Smith Univ Golden Bulls out of Charlotte NC.

  • @dumisatonyjohnson8145
    @dumisatonyjohnson8145 6 років тому +50

    1st round pick by Detroit out of IU in 1981
    NCAA championship with Hoosiers in 1981
    Most outstanding player of the NCAA tournament in 1981
    2x All Star ⭐️MVP
    1990 Finals MVP
    2x NBA Champion (89 and 90)
    12x All Star ⭐️
    1982 All Rookie Team
    Led the NBA in assists in 1985
    3x All- NBA First Team
    2x All-NBA Second Team
    Averaged 19 points 9 assists and 1.9 steals a game in his 13 year career with the Detroit Pistons (1981-1994)
    Considered one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history
    2000 basketball 🏀 hall of fame

  • @adskw1935
    @adskw1935 9 років тому +226

    I believe that Isiah Thomas is the second greatest point guard of all time, closely behind Magic and in his same class.

    • @ejmac11
      @ejmac11 9 років тому +32

      +ADSkw1 Best 3 pointguards of all time are John Stockton, Isiah Thomas and Magic Johnson. You can put them in any order you'd like, I personally liked Stockton the most, but they were all outstanding.

    • @lotyloty2
      @lotyloty2 8 років тому +2

      +ejmac11 and Jason Kidd , I think is pretty much a top 3 , cause of his overall career stats.

    • @claytonstluka4933
      @claytonstluka4933 8 років тому +17

      ejmac11 I agree tho I believe Stockton isn't as good as either of them as when they played Stockton would usually get lit up by them. Although Stockton might be better or equal to statistically as isiah, I think isiah was the 2nd best ever.

    • @slipnorris5882
      @slipnorris5882 7 років тому +7

      Besides Magic, Ill take Isiah over Kidd, CP3, Nash, Stockton, Payton etc.. Russell Westbrook isn't a proto type point guard, but I think he is on the verge to be #2.

    • @mjjohnson9925
      @mjjohnson9925 7 років тому +26

      The big difference between Zeke and Stockton as basketball players? When needed, Zeke could put up 40 on you and take over a game when needed.

  • @jozayphil2294
    @jozayphil2294 8 років тому +71

    Zeke is from Chicago, played college in Indiana, and Pro in Detroit.
    Jordan played in Chicago, Magic was from Michigan..., and Bird was from Indiana.

    • @John6-40
      @John6-40 7 років тому +7

      Would kinda be cool if teams could only take players from their state. Imagine Magic as a Piston. Isaiah as a Bull. Jordan as a Hornet. Bird as a Pacer. ETC

    • @benashworth7653
      @benashworth7653 7 років тому +9

      the chicago thing was the main reason Thomas had a problem wit Jordan. Untill jordan came along, chi town was Isiah's.

    • @joonant1
      @joonant1 7 років тому +5

      That midwest connection right there.

    • @tuno1538
      @tuno1538 5 років тому +4

      Very perceptive🤔 The irony of it. I never would've made that connection.

    • @deucewayne449
      @deucewayne449 5 років тому

      Jozay phil Never thought about that.

  • @robertphilip6649
    @robertphilip6649 6 років тому +147

    Isaiah Thomas was a winner and the reason why Chicago Bulls lost time and again during the 80s. 'Bad Boys' for life!

    • @Ossissindwestpolen
      @Ossissindwestpolen 4 роки тому +5

      That Made the bulls a better champion because of that

    • @ronaldlewis739
      @ronaldlewis739 4 роки тому +1

      robert philip they only lost two years to the pistons

    • @johnmayes761
      @johnmayes761 4 роки тому +3

      Bulls did something right for the pistons have to come up with the Jordan rules the only player that has a book out on how to try and stop the greatest player ever Jordan congulations Thomas on a great career

    • @Hawkeyespeedblitz
      @Hawkeyespeedblitz 4 роки тому +3

      They played real dirty

    • @barrylird6853
      @barrylird6853 4 роки тому +4

      @@Hawkeyespeedblitz but in all of honest as michael said .....when the bulls lost the games 89 & 90 .....michael was the first to shake hands.....next year 91 ....when bulls ....won the games ...bloody pistons .....left the stage ....like cunts ..and he admin that on the last dance ....that isiah is an asshole ...and after all these years he changed his excuse ....once that the celtics did that before so he thought that was normal and bla bla.....MR ISIAH THOMAS ....REAL MEN ... ACCEPT THEIR LOST ...but 91 pistons were great loosers ...and loose the game by just 2 players ....MJ and SCOTTIE....thats the story .......

  • @tarawebb9800
    @tarawebb9800 4 роки тому +24

    Classy and one of the best induction speeches I've heard!

  • @edmerc92
    @edmerc92 4 роки тому +10

    Fantastic speech from a fantastic player. Thank you Isiah, from a Piston fan.

  • @lorrydriver1004
    @lorrydriver1004 8 років тому +82

    Isiah was the fucking best ! .. Pistons were a beast team, they played the tough game .. Bad Boys Forever

    • @t100base
      @t100base 7 років тому +6

      fuck jordan

    • @lucan2281
      @lucan2281 3 роки тому

      Bad boys forever yep! 👊💪

  • @Artstar2
    @Artstar2 8 років тому +55

    Listen to all of the NBA Hall of Fame speeches over the years. This could be the best. Isiah is a natural on and off the court.

    • @AnHebrewChild
      @AnHebrewChild 3 роки тому +1

      Listen to Iverson's
      That was also beautiful.
      So was Rodman's.

  • @JohnnyCage333
    @JohnnyCage333 4 роки тому +39

    Chuck Daly said something interesting. He said that if Isiah Thomas was 5 inches taller he may have been the greatest of all time. I agree. No doubt. Definitely 1/2 right there with Michael Jordan.

    • @gunradiahmad7742
      @gunradiahmad7742 4 роки тому +5

      just like Kobe said that we're lucky Allen Iverson is just 6 ft tall..

    • @JohnnyCage333
      @JohnnyCage333 4 роки тому +1

      @@gunradiahmad7742 👍🏻👌🏼🏀Yes.

    • @Barakudas1-h6k
      @Barakudas1-h6k 3 роки тому +2

      I think he could be better than Jordan but not the best ever.

    • @Barakudas1-h6k
      @Barakudas1-h6k 3 роки тому +2

      I think he could be better than Jordan but not the best ever.

    • @brianbadonde9251
      @brianbadonde9251 3 роки тому +1

      @@Barakudas1-h6k if he was better than Jordan, that would make him the best ever. Duh

  • @khunmoh2492
    @khunmoh2492 3 роки тому +7

    I love his smile, he is grateful, and humble.

  • @the_Giovanni_Jian
    @the_Giovanni_Jian 10 років тому +140

    I agree, Jordan's speech was so boastful. Zeke's speech is very humble.

    • @stevieray7829
      @stevieray7829 4 роки тому +5

      IT would be acting the same way if he was the goat

    • @dusk6159
      @dusk6159 4 роки тому +2

      @@stevieray7829 No, Lebron nor Kareem do it and they are the best ever depending on how you make the top 3, almost anyone does it aside those Jordan, Kobe and others examples, not even Shaq do it because even he knows how to limit himself.
      Zeke proved how he is higher than those said Jordan, Kobe etc etc NBA players types, he was one of the cases that didn't go the speech settling things and boasting himself.

    • @ronaldlewis739
      @ronaldlewis739 4 роки тому +3

      Jian Qiu Zeke has nothing to boast about he’s a bum

    • @normajeaneason6983
      @normajeaneason6983 4 роки тому +4

      That's because hes sneaky. He doesn't have the guts to speak his mind. Hes not humble.

    • @tikogto3866
      @tikogto3866 4 роки тому +7

      @@ronaldlewis739 Zeke was better than most, you're just a jealous hater.

  • @beeojeiks6516
    @beeojeiks6516 4 роки тому +25

    Excellent speech. Loved him looking back from where he came from. Thanking his mother 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

  • @mrswaggmasta
    @mrswaggmasta 4 роки тому +11

    the best speech i've seen thus far.. so well spoken. Legend.

  • @huntergerelds332
    @huntergerelds332 4 роки тому +13

    I love the way the he talks and how smooth he transitions. Love watching TNT Open Court with him

  • @midsummersnight3848
    @midsummersnight3848 3 роки тому +7

    This girl from IL graduated in his sister schools class! I can tell you firsthand that this is an incredible guy. So well deserved!!!

  • @usafo6885
    @usafo6885 8 років тому +80

    From 1986-1990, there was no point guard in NBA history better in a four year period. While battling the HOF stacked Celtics, Jordan's Bulls and Magics Lakers, Isiah was a peerless/fearless competitor with sublime skills. Watch 1988 NBA Finals Game 6, you will never see a greater basketball performance. He is in my all time NBA top 15 list, and was a supreme master of the game. Congratulations Isiah, you are a the role model for young men.

    • @Stgfre
      @Stgfre 6 років тому

      You forgot Larry Celtics.

    • @dmagical32
      @dmagical32 4 роки тому

      @@Stgfre The HOF stacked Celtics? As if the Bulls and Lakers weren't HOF stacked. You're right, he should've mentioned Larry Legend, the best small forward in NBA history.

    • @Stgfre
      @Stgfre 4 роки тому +1

      @@dmagical32 You wonder why he was not selected to the United States Olympic Basketball Team. Larry Bird was one of those basketball players that did want him selected on the team.

    • @Stgfre
      @Stgfre 4 роки тому

      @@dmagical32 Who is the HOF?

    • @dmagical32
      @dmagical32 4 роки тому

      @@Stgfre If Laimbeer gets in the HOF, it loses all credibility, it would devalue all the greats and their accomplishments, it would be a slap in the face to all the greats.

  • @jermaineonealnumber7
    @jermaineonealnumber7 9 років тому +21

    I miss coach Daley. I'm glad there are some 90s games here where he's co-commenting. I love hearing coach Daley talk basketball & he's got a great sense of humour.

    • @TL2354
      @TL2354 10 місяців тому

      Daly

  • @SuperJimmielee
    @SuperJimmielee 8 років тому +55

    The best small pg ever. A true warrior.

    • @johnnyberry9343
      @johnnyberry9343 6 років тому +1

      Johnny L.Berry Jr.4358.. .....312 665847...chicago bulls 6 tuners with Chicago Bulls winners Phil Jackson..cacan winner ..winner Michel Jordan...all star..7 years.

  • @madmanmiles725
    @madmanmiles725 4 роки тому +11

    Underrated and incredibly well spoken. Last dance doesn’t give this incredible personality the appreciation he deserves regardless of how he is received from how he played the game

  • @amirharris6676
    @amirharris6676 7 років тому +13

    Great player, young man, father and character above reproach! Congratulations Isaiah!

  • @kaiyeem
    @kaiyeem 8 років тому +58

    Chicago stand up for our greatest Captain Isiah Thomas.

  • @JustNeedaBeerandPark
    @JustNeedaBeerandPark 12 років тому +59

    R.I.P. Coach Daly: Greatest NBA Coach ever!!!

    • @edmerc92
      @edmerc92 4 роки тому +7

      There was a reason he was named to coach the Dream Team. Amazing coach and person.

  • @waelharp4060
    @waelharp4060 8 років тому +298

    Isiah beat Jordan, Bird and Magic. He doesnt get the recognition that he deserves. He was the best PG of all time in my opinion. Magic was bigger but Isiah was a better leader. When the game was on the line he would take over and he was unstoppable when he decided it was time. Also he is a great coach and has an eye for talent. I think if Indiana kept him around a few more years they would have won a championship. He built that Pacers team that was giving the 03 04 Pistons fits. Then they fired him and hired Larry Bird after Isiah built that team.

    • @johngallo1824
      @johngallo1824 7 років тому +8

      Wael Harp yeah he beat Magic when he pulled a hamstring, let's not forget that

    • @MM-lp4cm
      @MM-lp4cm 6 років тому +3

      yes, people dont remember , he was great maaaan. one of top 2 pg of al time.

    • @SilentService697
      @SilentService697 6 років тому +6

      If he was a man of character, he would have been a Dream Teamer...

    • @stevelambrecht5417
      @stevelambrecht5417 6 років тому +1

      The man who destroyed the CBA

    • @jameshill927
      @jameshill927 6 років тому

      Wael Harp the best

  • @Godoftheturnaround
    @Godoftheturnaround 2 роки тому +6

    I absolutely love this one of all -- I’ve always thought he was one of the greatest dribblers of all time to me -- this was such a a magnificent and so well spoken speech and I love him being so humble, about his life, being so transparent, Isaiah you had me crying and also amazed how well spoken you where and your love of family

  • @okenough123
    @okenough123 8 років тому +22

    Isiah great on and off the court, true legend

  • @missayawk
    @missayawk 7 років тому +29

    All you Isiah fans...find the book " Dream Team" by Jack McCallum and read what John Stockton says when he 1st played against Isiah ( way before the NBA).All i will say is...Isiah been on top for a long time.

    • @crzctrlable
      @crzctrlable 3 роки тому +4

      and thats why when stockton got inducted to HOF, he had isiah up there on the stage

    • @missayawk
      @missayawk 3 роки тому +1

      @@crzctrlable Even if he didn't mention it, I'm sure he credits Isiah for making him step up his game when they met as teens.Isiah was so far ahead of guys his age.I respect John for that, despite what feelings Karl Malone might have towards Isiah.

  • @ronaldlaury5370
    @ronaldlaury5370 8 років тому +18

    Love you brother,one of the greatest to ever play the game.The greatest player to come out Chicago,Mr Westside!!!!!

  • @vhoy7899
    @vhoy7899 5 років тому +11

    The best acceptance speech.... ..he praised his team. That's a leader!

  • @t.bozmkw3562
    @t.bozmkw3562 4 роки тому +30

    Jordan rates this guy as the best point guard after Magic.

    • @aarondigby9859
      @aarondigby9859 2 роки тому +3

      I think Isaiah was a better point guard than Magic because he was a better shooter, all Magic shot was a set shot, if you got in Magic's face he'd just try to drive buy you, Zeke would drive,stop and shoot a jumper.

    • @t.bozmkw3562
      @t.bozmkw3562 2 роки тому +1

      @@aarondigby9859 this man is a winner. I don't think that Pistons team was talented but they were a great unified outfit.

  • @miafora7308
    @miafora7308 4 роки тому +3

    Iv gone on a binge of these speeches the last couple days, Isiah is IMO the most poetic speaker I'v watched. Very powerful words.

  • @billthebutcher2
    @billthebutcher2 6 років тому +23

    Toughness personified, great, great player.

  • @laquitajones7897
    @laquitajones7897 4 роки тому +3

    Zeek! My favorite basketball player! So happy Chuck Daly was able to speak!

  • @thisislaflaretv5250
    @thisislaflaretv5250 7 років тому +17

    I get teary eyed when I c this

  • @lovenlightman
    @lovenlightman 8 років тому +21

    Love u Thomas. Few People came from no where like u and fought all the way to the NBA- Thanks to there huge Talent and will power. And u Kept fighting- Beating the bets of the best -Magic, Bird and Jordan-Ye. Your team was the one to stop the bulls.

  • @ed-reea
    @ed-reea 4 роки тому +5

    I had the privilege to admire his generation for the distance. Growing up and playing basketball in Romania, we had no idea about the tensions between Mr.Thomas and others. For us they were all Gods on top of Mount Olympus. Magic, Isiah, Jordan, Bird. And this is what they still are. Thank you, Mr.Thomas! It was an absolute joy to see you- on WHS tapes, with more than a year delay- battling the Lakers and the Bulls and the Celtics!

  • @sepidehsh4661
    @sepidehsh4661 10 років тому +27

    16 points in 94 second!!! dammmmmn

  • @scoot1105
    @scoot1105 11 років тому +15

    Isiah's my favorite basketball player EVER!! Skills, leadership, and HEART!! Bigget heart of any player I've ever seen!! I learned how to play the game watching him growing up!!

    • @aarondigby9859
      @aarondigby9859 2 роки тому

      Curly Neal of the Harlem Globetrotters is an alumni if Johnson C. Smith Univ. Golden Bulls.

  • @georgemartinez8434
    @georgemartinez8434 5 років тому +3

    Isaiah Thomas i almost missed your induction, GREAT thought out and articulate speech. Graceful and calm as you played the game.

  • @JeffLcarz
    @JeffLcarz 11 років тому +19

    Toughest 6 foot guard to play the game. Tough defender, could score at will and handle the ball as well as anyone. Former champ with back-to-back rings to prove it and did whatever it took to win.

  • @danielabatabogdanov8586
    @danielabatabogdanov8586 4 роки тому +11

    Love him as a analyst! He is entertaining and has a good way with words unlike many former players that get jobs in the media today

    • @danielabatabogdanov8586
      @danielabatabogdanov8586 4 роки тому +1

      @Mari Jata ¨hehe Shaq also has a high education :) lol but i guess he payed for it.

    • @gregoryrowlerson8457
      @gregoryrowlerson8457 4 роки тому +2

      He even has given high plaudits to Jordan, Pippen and Malone during the 98 Finals; even though he personally dislikes these guys. Much respect.

  • @LocoAsasino
    @LocoAsasino 4 роки тому +23

    5:17 look at the scar tissue on his face you would swear he was a boxer! This guy was the greatest competitor. The stakes were always so high when he was playing on the other team

    • @2BESTdogBLUE
      @2BESTdogBLUE 4 роки тому +3

      I was thinking the same thing!! I'm from Detroit....I'm gonna ALWAYS LOVE those BAD BOYS!!

    • @mohammedkhaleel7542
      @mohammedkhaleel7542 4 роки тому +4

      That was Karl Malone in 91-92

  • @elijahaywago7274
    @elijahaywago7274 4 роки тому +4

    I do watch this video many times to see how Zeke appreciated his mom. God help me one day I appreciate my mom this way.

  • @saritaale7482
    @saritaale7482 4 роки тому +10

    Isaiah Thomas, Dennis Rodman and Allen Iverson - Dayuuuum, that was one hell of moving speech. 😭😭😭

  • @lurking0death
    @lurking0death 4 роки тому +5

    Greatest competitive heart I ever saw. Just an extraordinary player. My God, what a player.

  • @MrBlackout06
    @MrBlackout06 11 років тому +6

    My favorite point guard, my favorite Piston..great dude, glad I got to talk with him.

  • @RonaldDregan
    @RonaldDregan 4 роки тому +6

    Damn yo this is a tear jerker no doubt I thought dennis rodman had a really touching speech man ofcourse I.T. takes the cake man. Much love man

  • @24BIGDYL
    @24BIGDYL 6 років тому +21

    Thomas is a legend

  • @tiotaz7934
    @tiotaz7934 4 роки тому +9

    Glad Chuck Daly Was Alive To Go To Isaiah Thomas Hof Ceremony.

  • @wmakombe6472
    @wmakombe6472 4 роки тому +1

    So much respect for you sir, especially after watching the LAST DANCE. what a player. Probably the most underrated.

  • @moralsovermoney100
    @moralsovermoney100 7 років тому +22

    The 47 pt. game against the Lakers in the heartbreaking Game 6 loss was literally on one leg.
    Included a 25pt. third quarter. Great leader with a tremendous desire to win.

    • @aarondigby9859
      @aarondigby9859 2 роки тому +2

      If he hadn't hurt his ankle the Pistons would've won that chip in '88. The year Isaiah threw the inbounds pass nd Bird intercepted and flipped the ball to Dennis Johnson for a layup, they probably would've won that year also. They should've won at least three, four chips but they did win back to back.

  • @leandropinero7830
    @leandropinero7830 4 роки тому +3

    spectacular speech. Amazing player

  • @kudabeen
    @kudabeen 8 років тому +4

    Love when people speak from the heart...not trying to read (when it isn't their best attribute) to express themselves.

  • @scorpionJB
    @scorpionJB 11 років тому +17

    the greatest small player of all time

  • @seiracross1050
    @seiracross1050 6 років тому +4

    Spoken like a true Statesman ... Much love to you Mr Isiah Thomas.

  • @rjp0083
    @rjp0083 3 роки тому +1

    A lot of remembrance of greatness on his face thank you for inspiring me!

  • @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798
    @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798 2 роки тому +115

    The biggest shame on the NBA is excluding this legend from the so-called dream team. It ain't so without him, this man embodies what dreams are.

    • @chillbest14
      @chillbest14 Рік тому +15

      The whole team didn't want him. But Yes Isiah damn sure should have been on the dream team.

    • @waylonsteelman4577
      @waylonsteelman4577 Рік тому +10

      The failure to show sportsmanship after the bulls finally overcame them was a huge factor. Low class actions at the wrong time and it cost him

    • @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798
      @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798 Рік тому +6

      @@waylonsteelman4577
      Doesn't make sense. Chuck Daly was the head coach of the Pistons, and was selected to coach the so-called dream team.

    • @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798
      @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798 Рік тому +6

      @@chillbest14
      Mostly Jordan and Pippen didn't.

    • @big-l5771
      @big-l5771 Рік тому +5

      He didn't make the dream team cause his personality was a nightmare.

  • @Marekxxk
    @Marekxxk 4 роки тому +2

    I dont Remember this guy playing but what I Can Tell from his speech is he has a brain, a class, he is in inner peace and his voice is very soothing. You probably dont have many like him in the game.

  • @Alexz_Archivz
    @Alexz_Archivz 11 років тому +3

    L'il 'Siah... man, the Pistons n definately myself... miss u dearly!!! Detroit misses u! U repped Motown tho u were from the Chi. Miss u Zeke! - A Detroit kid from the 80s

  • @nadirkhan2250
    @nadirkhan2250 3 роки тому +1

    The dude can stitch a picture with words. Brilliant and eloquent speaker.

  • @bobbywall172
    @bobbywall172 5 років тому +6

    Bad to the bone, guys!! I loved watching the bad boys battle every time you went out. My dad and myself watched a lot of early nba, thanks dad!!!

  • @leroystover1062
    @leroystover1062 5 років тому +2

    Thank u chuck Daley and those bad boys Isiah Thomas u the best mam

  • @markreagan2571
    @markreagan2571 9 років тому +52

    Damn Isaiah it's true if would be 5 inch taller, he will schooled Jordan & Magic..piston Era is the toughest team, from physical to mental they will eat you alive in court..salute to Isaiah..

    • @lupinsutil6779
      @lupinsutil6779 9 років тому

      mark it's isiah

    • @thepielord26
      @thepielord26 9 років тому +4

      +Mark Reagan he would be a completely different player at that height...

    • @thetruth418
      @thetruth418 9 років тому

      +Mark Reagan Yep he would have schooled MJ. smfh How old are you? Oh I see you're a white guy with lots of tattoos. I wish you the best of luck with your career and toilet cleaner at White Castle.

    • @markreagan2571
      @markreagan2571 9 років тому

      Lol...same to, u suck me...hahaha;-) Jordan need education in basketball..

    • @ejmac11
      @ejmac11 9 років тому +3

      +The Truth So being white means you can't understand the game of basketball? That's pretty racist. That's like me saying because you're black means you can't know how to be a good father.

  • @isabeltgama3904
    @isabeltgama3904 2 роки тому +1

    Wow ❤️
    What a beautiful beautiful speech Mr Thomas 🙏🏽🙏🏽

  • @thomasguitartube
    @thomasguitartube 9 років тому +14

    Zeke was one of the best players ever inch for inch. In addition I agree with coach Daly that he was one of the greatest leaders of his generation and a very able and intelligent representative of the game of basketball in general. In my humble opinion he is the most under rated player in the NBA. My total respect.

  • @xxxxxJAYMILLZxxxxxxx
    @xxxxxJAYMILLZxxxxxxx 4 роки тому +1

    IT one of the games most competitive/passionate players. 👊💪 A legend of the sport, with a legendary speech.

  • @valentinotera3244
    @valentinotera3244 4 роки тому +18

    "Sinatra was made to sing. Jesse Owens was made to run. Isiah Thamas, was made to play basketball"

  • @cartoonworld1000
    @cartoonworld1000 6 років тому +2

    This right here is a man full of heart and someone that has matured and grown over the years

  • @Scarsuna
    @Scarsuna 10 років тому +10

    He only mentioned his teammates who were in the audience by name. However, he thanked all of his teammates.

  • @randyw8761
    @randyw8761 Рік тому +1

    Zeke and those guys were special. Legends. I love those guys.

  • @kyledamron
    @kyledamron 7 років тому +17

    such a classy speech. I had no issue with Jordan's speech but I prefer Zeke's speech the tone of it touches me

    • @artisticskillz01
      @artisticskillz01 4 роки тому +1

      Jordan was just letting everyone know why he was the way he was. Why he was so competitive.

    • @giantkiller56
      @giantkiller56 4 роки тому +1

      Jordan's speech ranks as one of the dickish moments of all time. Not surprised, though. That's who he is.

  • @kilojoliet3855
    @kilojoliet3855 2 роки тому

    One of the best professional basketball prayer of my generation. Thank you!

  • @enrycabello5217
    @enrycabello5217 6 років тому +5

    Another legend! Great player

  • @tinathomas8593
    @tinathomas8593 2 роки тому +1

    On God this man help build a relationship with my father that no girl could ever not love the Detroit Pistons. Man you are my favorite basketball player ever. PERIOD!!

  • @aws21st
    @aws21st 7 років тому +17

    The greatest all round pure point guard ever in college and NBA by far..In my opinion

  • @jonesjerry4273
    @jonesjerry4273 4 роки тому +1

    Of all the HOF speeches I've heard, this is my favorite.

  • @mariopantoja8259
    @mariopantoja8259 3 роки тому +3

    He's gotten a lot of attention since the Last Dance. As a Chicagoan living in that late 80/90 Pistons, I considered him a villain but he was from my city so I knew why he played like that.

  • @thernly
    @thernly 6 років тому +2

    I went to school with Isiah at IU in 1979-81, and I followed his NBA career closely. I believe he's among the top 30 to 40 most talented basketball players ever to play the game; he may even be even among the top 25. It's impossible to be more precise than that when comparing and ranking players who played the game at different positions and during different eras.

  • @johnsontan6808
    @johnsontan6808 3 роки тому +4

    a great player, the best little player ever and a winner 👍

  • @anthonyclark9441
    @anthonyclark9441 2 роки тому +1

    This man is one of the GOATS and he never gets mentioned as such. The 2nd greatest PG in History deserves to be in that conversation.

    • @superdopehiphop
      @superdopehiphop 2 роки тому +1

      Undoubtedly! Bad luck away from winning 3 straight as best player! Hoosiers legend also!

    • @anthonyclark9441
      @anthonyclark9441 2 роки тому

      @@superdopehiphop the Phantom Foul of 1988 robbed Him of 3 straight Rings.

  • @jlmartinez8482
    @jlmartinez8482 5 років тому +8

    Isiah was truly an all time GREAT ! He doesn't get the respect he deserves ! So underappreciated ! He beat Larry, Magic, and Jordan and the Bulls 3x's in the playoffs ! One of my all time favorites ! It was an atrocity that he wasn't on the Dream Team ! Thanks to MJ ! Just shameful . Smh

  • @christophermotyka8744
    @christophermotyka8744 3 роки тому

    The greatest little man ever. Never seen anyone more determined his will unshakable. What great memories!!!