On this day in 1981, Isiah Thomas made his debut for the Detroit Pistons at home against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Pistons won 118-113. The legendary point guard who stood at 6’1, was one of the best “small men” to ever play the game. Known for his gritty style of play, athleticism, and playmaking abilities, Thomas led the Detroit Pistons to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990. During the 1990 NBA Finals, Thomas averaged 27.6 points, 7 assists, and 5.2 rebounds. The Pistons defeated the Trail Blazers 4-1, and Thomas was named NBA FInals MVP. In his 13 years with Detroit, Thomas retired as the franchise leader in points, assists, steals, and games played. His other accolades include 5x All-NBA Team selections, NBA assists leader (1985), and 12x NBA All-Star. Thomas was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000 and his no.11 was retired by the Detroit Pistons.
Today in Sports History: October 30
