Pistons: 3 takeaways from Hoop Du Jour interview with Isiah Thomas

The origin of the rumored Jordan All Star freeze out game

There’s plenty of compelling stories from these two Hall of Fame inductees. When the topic of Jordan came up, Thomas didn’t bite his tongue. Peter started the conversation with the infamous 1985 All-Star game, giving some of the most intriguing insight on the alleged act.

Peter Vecsey was the writer who broke the story of the infamous freeze out game. It’s been a ongoing topic in basketball circles since the release of The Last Dance documentary. If you aren’t familiar, there was a rumor that Thomas froze Jordan out during the game, not allowing the ball to get into his hands.

Vecsey stated to Isiah Thomas “you know that was my story” then Thomas quickly replied “you started that rumor” then Peter continued stating “I did, I did start the rumor because your agent Dr. Charles Tucker came to me at half time and told me that, and I ran with it” giving fans the origin of this NBA urban legend.

This may have been the most shocking details with in the interview in my opinion. Finding out that it was actually Isiah Thomas’s agent who created that rumor. The bombshell that Vecsey dropped looked to catch Isiah off guard, as he sat looking stunned.

In the interview Peter Vecsey said “at the end of the day it’s ludicrous, it was a ludicrous article that continues to this day” putting this long time rumor to bed finally. The Jordan segment gets very in-depth, spending well over twenty minutes covering that portion of his career.

The conclusion 

Peter Vecsey flexed his muscles, proving he’s still one of the best interviewers in sports. This episode featuring Isiah Thomas is one of the best of his to date in my opinion. Peter and Isiah were unscripted and authentic, leaving me wanting to hear more. Vecsey said “I’m hoping for a part two, to explore many Pistons’ aspects” to me after interviewing Thomas.

I suggest watching all the episodes of Hoop Du Jour, one of my personal favorites happens to be the George “Ice Man” Gervin interview. The former scoring champion and Detroit native is recognized as one of the most lethal scorers in league history, dominating offensively en route to his four scoring titles.

Peter Vecsey has given a platform to former players and there’s plenty more to come. He said “a episode a week is the goal” as he’s looking to stay busy. That’s exactly what he’s been doing hosting Hoop Du Jour. He’s also writing a book, and recently had a cameo in Adam Sandler’s latest movie Hustle.

His next guest will be former NBA executive Pat Williams. Williams is recognized for his role in creating the Orlando Magic, and winning the 1983 NBA championship with the 76ers. As an executive he made it to five NBA finals during his career, the latest being in 2009 with Dwight Howard. He was around some of the most polarizing athletes in basketball such as Julius Erving, Moses Malone, Anfernee Hardaway and Shaquille O’Neal to name a few. This will make for more exclusive and exciting content for viewers.

Here’s the link to the full interview with Isiah Thomas.