
Plain English with Derek Thompson
The Five Superstars Who Invented the Modern NBA
May 21, 2024
Kirk Goldsberry, author of ‘Hoop Atlas,’ dives into the evolution of basketball strategy and the players who transformed the game. He highlights how Michael Jordan's reluctance to embrace three-point shooting paved the way for a revolution in the sport. The conversation explores the cultural impact of stars like Allen Iverson and Manu Ginóbili, while also discussing the rise of versatile centers like Nikola Jokic. Goldsberry explains the shift from mid-range games to today's 'sprawl ball,' illustrating how these players shaped modern basketball.
49:23
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of basketball strategy has been driven by tactical entrepreneurs like Michael Jordan and Steph Curry, who introduced innovative plays and skills.
- The rise of the three-point shot has revolutionized gameplay, from fewer attempts in the past to a current emphasis on three-point shooting as a key strategy.
Deep dives
The history of modern NBA analytics
The episode explores the impact of analytics on modern basketball, comparing the influence of Moneyball in baseball to the Three-Point Revolution in the NBA. It discusses how teams have optimized gameplay based on data analysis, leading to a shift in strategies like faster pitching and increased three-point shooting.
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