Isiah L. Thomas' Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Speech

Sdílet
Vložit
  • čas přidán 11. 03. 2012
  • Chuck Daly introduces Isiah L. Thomas as he delivers his speech upon being enshrined to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2000. To learn more about Isiah L. Thomas take a look at his official Hall of Fame bio at www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famer...
  • Sport

Komentáře • 1,1K

  • @johngallo1824
    @johngallo1824 Před 6 lety +511

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

    • @ahnoldshort5500
      @ahnoldshort5500 Před 4 lety +34

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

    • @giantkiller56
      @giantkiller56 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +7

      So is this Laker

    • @capitanfuturo594
      @capitanfuturo594 Před 4 lety +5

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

    • @nathanielthomas2502
      @nathanielthomas2502 Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @meharinationsportspodcast2582
    @meharinationsportspodcast2582 Před 10 lety +598

    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 Před 9 lety +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 Před 9 lety +35

      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 Před 9 lety +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 Před 9 lety +16

      gerizzyYMcrew are you stupid?

    • @jeezydogpsn
      @jeezydogpsn Před 9 lety +5

      y u hate the greatest pg ever

  • @ezekielmajor5511
    @ezekielmajor5511 Před 8 lety +334

    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 Před 7 lety +2

      Ezekiel Major ya momma

    • @davidtargos6278
      @davidtargos6278 Před 5 lety +5

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

    • @nelsonrodriguez6639
      @nelsonrodriguez6639 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +1

      Reminds me of cp3 in that game 7

  • @mobetta2092
    @mobetta2092 Před 4 lety +75

    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 Před rokem

      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 Před 5 měsíci +1

      My favorite in any sport...all❤

  • @eurozone69
    @eurozone69 Před 8 lety +292

    Who's on a hall of fame binge?

  • @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798
    @abdelrahmanelsheikh5798 Před 2 lety +103

    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 Před rokem +13

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

    • @waylonsteelman4577
      @waylonsteelman4577 Před rokem +7

      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 Před rokem +4

      @@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 Před rokem +5

      @@chillbest14
      Mostly Jordan and Pippen didn't.

    • @big-l5771
      @big-l5771 Před rokem +3

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

  • @jeffgroth5032
    @jeffgroth5032 Před 8 lety +140

    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 Před 7 lety +1

      Jeff Groth Daley

    • @cynlev
      @cynlev Před 7 lety +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 Před rokem

      Nice. Jeff. 🤝

    • @wildworld33
      @wildworld33 Před rokem

      A legend

  • @olijadu
    @olijadu Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +1

      Oh and dont forget they were dirty players

    • @edmerc92
      @edmerc92 Před 3 lety +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 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @PaulHowardNetwork
    @PaulHowardNetwork Před 4 lety +41

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

    • @TL2354
      @TL2354 Před 4 měsíci

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

  • @RGT4285
    @RGT4285 Před 3 lety +25

    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 Před 8 lety +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 Před 8 lety +5

      WORD!

    • @mmafan2223
      @mmafan2223 Před 5 lety +3

      very well said thank you

    • @danielabatabogdanov8586
      @danielabatabogdanov8586 Před 4 lety +5

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

    • @yaotmacfrancis
      @yaotmacfrancis Před 2 lety

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

    • @superdopehiphop
      @superdopehiphop Před rokem

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

  • @valetudo1974
    @valetudo1974 Před 10 lety +57

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

  • @letterstomyson195
    @letterstomyson195 Před 6 lety +134

    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 Před 3 lety +9

      FACTS!!!!!!

    • @nuftis
      @nuftis Před 3 lety +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 Před 3 lety +1

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

    • @iceplayer3244
      @iceplayer3244 Před 3 lety +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 Před 3 lety +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.

  • @miguelperkins7997
    @miguelperkins7997 Před 5 lety +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 Před 3 lety +11

    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.

  • @notmine4268
    @notmine4268 Před 8 měsíci +6

    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!!!

    • @user-hm4rh6im7v
      @user-hm4rh6im7v Před 5 měsíci +1

      Please! Tell us more. Very interested!!!

    • @badsolja1
      @badsolja1 Před 4 měsíci

      That’s some gay shit
      Wow good for you

  • @toddsands6000
    @toddsands6000 Před 9 lety +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 Před 7 lety +11

      He beat them in their primes.

    • @toddsands6000
      @toddsands6000 Před 4 lety

      @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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 2 lety +1

      I agree.

  • @toksaden5951
    @toksaden5951 Před 7 lety +54

    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 Před rokem

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

  • @tarawebb9800
    @tarawebb9800 Před 4 lety +24

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

  • @JustNeedaBeerandPark
    @JustNeedaBeerandPark Před 11 lety +58

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

    • @edmerc92
      @edmerc92 Před 4 lety +7

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

  • @MrAiden3121
    @MrAiden3121 Před 10 lety +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

  • @jozayphil2294
    @jozayphil2294 Před 7 lety +69

    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 Před 7 lety +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 Před 7 lety +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 Před 6 lety +5

      That midwest connection right there.

    • @tuno1538
      @tuno1538 Před 5 lety +4

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

    • @deucewayne449
      @deucewayne449 Před 5 lety

      Jozay phil Never thought about that.

  • @lorrydriver1004
    @lorrydriver1004 Před 7 lety +81

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

  • @robertphilip6649
    @robertphilip6649 Před 5 lety +146

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

    • @Ossissindwestpolen
      @Ossissindwestpolen Před 4 lety +5

      That Made the bulls a better champion because of that

    • @ronaldlewis739
      @ronaldlewis739 Před 4 lety +1

      robert philip they only lost two years to the pistons

    • @johnmayes761
      @johnmayes761 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +3

      They played real dirty

    • @barrylird6853
      @barrylird6853 Před 4 lety +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 .......

  • @midsummersnight3848
    @midsummersnight3848 Před 3 lety +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!!!

  • @edmerc92
    @edmerc92 Před 4 lety +9

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

  • @kedrick71
    @kedrick71 Před 7 lety +160

    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 Před 6 lety +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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 3 lety +1

      Beautifully put. ❤

    • @mandogarcia7905
      @mandogarcia7905 Před 2 lety +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 Před rokem

      Facts

  • @beeojeiks6516
    @beeojeiks6516 Před 4 lety +25

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

  • @adskw1935
    @adskw1935 Před 8 lety +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 Před 8 lety +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 Před 8 lety +2

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

    • @claytonstluka4933
      @claytonstluka4933 Před 7 lety +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 Před 6 lety +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 Před 6 lety +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.

  • @khunmoh2492
    @khunmoh2492 Před 3 lety +7

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

  • @mrswaggmasta
    @mrswaggmasta Před 4 lety +11

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

  • @jermaineonealnumber7
    @jermaineonealnumber7 Před 9 lety +20

    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.

  • @dumisatonyjohnson8145
    @dumisatonyjohnson8145 Před 5 lety +49

    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

  • @Artstar2
    @Artstar2 Před 8 lety +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 Před 2 lety +1

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

  • @JohnnyCage333
    @JohnnyCage333 Před 4 lety +38

    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 Před 3 lety +5

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

    • @JohnnyCage333
      @JohnnyCage333 Před 3 lety +1

      @@gunradiahmad7742 👍🏻👌🏼🏀Yes.

    • @Yugowars
      @Yugowars Před 3 lety +2

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

    • @Yugowars
      @Yugowars Před 3 lety +2

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

    • @brianbadonde9251
      @brianbadonde9251 Před 2 lety +1

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

  • @huntergerelds332
    @huntergerelds332 Před 4 lety +12

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

  • @madmanmiles725
    @madmanmiles725 Před 4 lety +10

    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 Před 6 lety +13

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

  • @miafora7308
    @miafora7308 Před 4 lety +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.

  • @SuperJimmielee
    @SuperJimmielee Před 7 lety +54

    The best small pg ever. A true warrior.

    • @johnnyberry9343
      @johnnyberry9343 Před 5 lety +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.

  • @georgemartinez8434
    @georgemartinez8434 Před 5 lety +3

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

  • @the_Giovanni_Jian
    @the_Giovanni_Jian Před 10 lety +138

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

    • @stevieray7829
      @stevieray7829 Před 4 lety +5

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

    • @dusk6159
      @dusk6159 Před 4 lety +1

      @@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 Před 4 lety +3

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

    • @normajeaneason6983
      @normajeaneason6983 Před 4 lety +3

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

    • @tikogto3866
      @tikogto3866 Před 4 lety +7

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

  • @usafo6885
    @usafo6885 Před 8 lety +79

    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 Před 5 lety

      You forgot Larry Celtics.

    • @dmagical32
      @dmagical32 Před 4 lety

      @@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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety

      @@dmagical32 Who is the HOF?

    • @dmagical32
      @dmagical32 Před 4 lety

      @@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.

  • @Godoftheturnaround
    @Godoftheturnaround Před rokem +5

    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 Před 7 lety +21

    Isiah great on and off the court, true legend

  • @sepidehsh4661
    @sepidehsh4661 Před 10 lety +26

    16 points in 94 second!!! dammmmmn

  • @saritaale7482
    @saritaale7482 Před 4 lety +10

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

  • @shadowskill078
    @shadowskill078 Před 12 lety +43

    He had the rare distinction of beating Jordan, Bird and Magic in the same year enroute to his first NBA Championship. Truly one of the all time great players.

    • @naturalblockade3412
      @naturalblockade3412 Před 2 lety

      I thought that basketball is a team sport. Moreover, is he therefore better than Magic, Bird and Jordan?

    • @aarondigby9859
      @aarondigby9859 Před rokem +2

      @@naturalblockade3412 he kicked their arse all in the same year.

    • @naturalblockade3412
      @naturalblockade3412 Před rokem +1

      @@aarondigby9859 is he therefore better than Magic, Bird and Jordan?

    • @daystar73
      @daystar73 Před rokem

      @@naturalblockade3412 that year HE WAS....

    • @naturalblockade3412
      @naturalblockade3412 Před rokem

      @@daystar73 but does make him (Isiah Thomas) better than Jordan, Magic and Bird?

  • @laquitajones7897
    @laquitajones7897 Před 4 lety +3

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

  • @billthebutcher2
    @billthebutcher2 Před 5 lety +23

    Toughness personified, great, great player.

  • @wmakombe6472
    @wmakombe6472 Před 4 lety +1

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

  • @vhoy7899
    @vhoy7899 Před 5 lety +10

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

  • @kaiyeem
    @kaiyeem Před 8 lety +56

    Chicago stand up for our greatest Captain Isiah Thomas.

  • @t.bozmkw3562
    @t.bozmkw3562 Před 4 lety +30

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

    • @aarondigby9859
      @aarondigby9859 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

  • @rjp0083
    @rjp0083 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @thisislaflaretv5250
    @thisislaflaretv5250 Před 6 lety +16

    I get teary eyed when I c this

  • @ronaldlaury5370
    @ronaldlaury5370 Před 7 lety +16

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

  • @moralsovermoney100
    @moralsovermoney100 Před 7 lety +21

    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 Před rokem +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.

  • @elijahaywago7274
    @elijahaywago7274 Před 4 lety +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.

  • @isabeltgama3904
    @isabeltgama3904 Před 2 lety +1

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

  • @jack2roman
    @jack2roman Před 3 lety +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!

  • @lurking0death
    @lurking0death Před 4 lety +5

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

  • @kudabeen
    @kudabeen Před 8 lety +4

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

  • @tiotaz7934
    @tiotaz7934 Před 4 lety +8

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

  • @RonaldDregan
    @RonaldDregan Před 4 lety +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

  • @valentinotera3244
    @valentinotera3244 Před 4 lety +18

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

  • @MrBlackout06
    @MrBlackout06 Před 10 lety +6

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

  • @scoot1105
    @scoot1105 Před 11 lety +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 Před rokem

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

  • @leandropinero7830
    @leandropinero7830 Před 4 lety +3

    spectacular speech. Amazing player

  • @waelharp4060
    @waelharp4060 Před 7 lety +297

    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 Před 6 lety +8

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

    • @MM-lp4cm
      @MM-lp4cm Před 6 lety +3

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

    • @SilentService697
      @SilentService697 Před 5 lety +6

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

    • @stevelambrecht5417
      @stevelambrecht5417 Před 5 lety +1

      The man who destroyed the CBA

    • @jameshill927
      @jameshill927 Před 5 lety

      Wael Harp the best

  • @nadirkhan2250
    @nadirkhan2250 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @missayawk
    @missayawk Před 7 lety +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 Před 3 lety +4

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

    • @missayawk
      @missayawk Před 3 lety +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.

  • @danielabatabogdanov8586
    @danielabatabogdanov8586 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +1

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

    • @gregoryrowlerson8457
      @gregoryrowlerson8457 Před 4 lety +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.

  • @24BIGDYL
    @24BIGDYL Před 5 lety +21

    Thomas is a legend

  • @lovenlightman
    @lovenlightman Před 8 lety +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.

  • @xxxxxJAYMILLZxxxxxxx
    @xxxxxJAYMILLZxxxxxxx Před 4 lety +1

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

  • @bobbywall172
    @bobbywall172 Před 5 lety +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!!!

  • @LocoAsasino
    @LocoAsasino Před 4 lety +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

    • @a.perkins907
      @a.perkins907 Před 4 lety +3

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

    • @mohammedkhaleel7542
      @mohammedkhaleel7542 Před 3 lety +4

      That was Karl Malone in 91-92

  • @kilojoliet3855
    @kilojoliet3855 Před rokem

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

  • @leroystover1062
    @leroystover1062 Před 5 lety +2

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

  • @Alexz_Archivz
    @Alexz_Archivz Před 11 lety +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

  • @enrycabello5217
    @enrycabello5217 Před 6 lety +5

    Another legend! Great player

  • @Marekxk
    @Marekxk Před 4 lety +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.

  • @jonesjerry4273
    @jonesjerry4273 Před 4 lety +1

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

  • @seiracross1050
    @seiracross1050 Před 6 lety +4

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

  • @rahulv8365
    @rahulv8365 Před 8 lety +6

    Absolute Legend

  • @christophermotyka8744
    @christophermotyka8744 Před 3 lety

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

  • @cartoonworld1000
    @cartoonworld1000 Před 6 lety +2

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

  • @scorpionJB
    @scorpionJB Před 11 lety +17

    the greatest small player of all time

  • @lebronsfather4012
    @lebronsfather4012 Před 7 lety +6

    New respect for this man

  • @nuftis
    @nuftis Před 3 lety +1

    That was absolutely outstanding

  • @koophuisN
    @koophuisN Před 5 lety +1

    thank you mr isiah. love

  • @deeessex11
    @deeessex11 Před 8 lety +64

    greatest pg ever deeetroit basketball

  • @Scarsuna
    @Scarsuna Před 10 lety +10

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

  • @Kgoki890
    @Kgoki890 Před 4 lety +1

    Great speech & articulate . Iam South African let me tell you I love the South especially Mississippi.i feel I know then even though I never been there... Their history hits right at home with most of Us here...

  • @untouchables11
    @untouchables11 Před 11 lety +2

    Very well spoken from the heart.

  • @johnsontan6808
    @johnsontan6808 Před 3 lety +4

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

  • @redberrydivac031
    @redberrydivac031 Před 4 lety +4

    I still LOVE me some Isaiah my Piston 4life🏀💪💕

  • @henryokonkwo8760
    @henryokonkwo8760 Před 2 lety +1

    I so much love and respect this man

  • @tinathomas8593
    @tinathomas8593 Před 2 lety +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!!