Isiah Thomas AKA Zeke Joins Q and D | Knuckleheads S3: E6 | The Players' Tribune

From the West Side of Chicago, to the Basketball Hall of Fame, to this week’s episode of Knuckleheads with Quentin Richardson and Darius Miles, it’s the OG Isiah Thomas (aka Zeke). The guys start by taking it back to Zeke’s high school days playing for legendary Chicago coach Gene Pingatore (2:27). Zeke recounts a few memorable moments from his college recruitment process (7:32), including the time one coach showed up at his house with a briefcase full of cash - and the time his mom called a press conference to announce his commitment to Indiana for him! He laughs about deliberately tanking interviews with NBA teams in an effort to get drafted later in the round by Chicago, but admits that going to Detroit was a huge blessing after all (17:59). Zeke then takes the guys through the history of one of the most underrated great teams in NBA history: the Bad Boy Pistons (21:01). We’re talking Dennis Rodman, Mark Aguirre, Joe Dumars … you know the lineup. Q and D recall their feelings when Isiah was left off the 1992 Dream Team, but Zeke holds no grudge, saying he realized that the basketball gods had a bigger plan (41:38). The Knuckleheads share some of their favorite stories from Isiah’s coaching years, including one with a lesson on how not to react after someone dunks on you (58:45). And Isiah has a message for all the NBA front offices: You want Jamal Crawford on your team, on your coaching staff - somewhere. Straight up (1:23:27). The guys wrap up talking about Derrick Rose, the kid from Chicago who got to live out that dream they all had: to be a Bull (1:14:11).
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[@billionairetone]

Zeke the only person to beat Jordan Bird and Magic in a playoff series.

[@LoyalOpposition]

Agreed

[@erickgross984]

He might be the 2nd GOAT

[@Patawon]

Erick Gross stop it

[@mexia23]

Facts they just scroll over that

[@erickgross984]

I ask everyone 6ft an under. Could you ever imagine your team beating MJ. They all say No but The Super Star of the Pistons did. When you look at Zeke's competition and who was in his way for a championship. No one in history had a mountain to climb like Isiah Lord Thomas III

[@wilgilliam]

I can literally listen to zeke talk basketball all day every day

[@mobetta2092]

When Zeke talks basketball, true students of the game listen, and in his playing days his teammates were led by him to win championships when they listened.

[@MrBmick79]

Basketball genius. I’m glad he’s getting his due while he’s still with us

[@seanmatthews690]

Me too , he is a basketball historian.

[@MrBmick79]

@@seanmatthews690 thats crazy that he did a clinic with John McClendon. That is one degree away from the man who invented college hoops

[@redberrydivac031]

I get a joy of listening to Zeke talk about his journey, it's very inspiring. I Love my Detroit Piston Bad Boys🏀 Detroit's Blue Collar Workers💪🏽🏀

[@Gahr20]

These OG players stories just hit different. You just soak in everything they’re talking about .

[@terryt504]

Damn good point

[@mr.terence1262]

The OGs are so honest and sincere with their replies. No BS. Straight up. It's so enjoyable to watch their interviews.

[@ireignsupreeeme7]

facts bruh

[@mr.christopher575]

You know when the OG talking 1. You get chill's 2. You just listen 3. Dont interrupt

[@ColdEraOfficial]

Real spill especially The Great Isiah Thomas 💯💯 definitely top ten all time

[@TommyGibbs1]

@@ColdEraOfficial 💯💯

[@russellwalton5646]

You can tell how much respect is in the room. When Isaiah talks you just sit back and listen...

[@raymondbrown8351]

Isiah Thomas get my respect...Met him in person at 38th st parking garage in NYC.... Couldn't believe how small he was....In my opinion greatest point guard behind Magic Johnson hands down.A God

[@lashadow8]

Love that Isaiah gave respect to Mark Aguirre's unselfishness with his minutes, points, career, potential HOF legacy and mentoring of Dennis Rodman..

[@mobetta2092]

WHAT!?!!? Same here...same here. I'm a Detroiter and was 11 when the Pistons signed Aguirre for Dantley. Keep in mind KZbin and NBATV didn't exist so i wasn't as hip to Aguirre as I would've been as an 11 yr old today. The moment my pops told me Zeke and Aguirre were childhood friends from Chicago, I was sold on the spot and forever rocked with Aguirre even more once I saw he was a STRAIGHT UP BALLER. To this day, because of Isiah and Mark, I have even more love in general for the City of Chicago (except for the Jordan's Bulls, too much Pistons blood in my veins...but I must admit I was glad the Bulls beat Malone in 97 & 98, and our Pistons resurfaced to finished him off in 2004 when he tried to creep into our town for a championship disguised as Laker...nope, we recognized him and needed some "get back" from years before for that BS cheap shot on our captain Zeke that still had our blood boiling around these parts).

[@kennethrobinson6738]

Great point about Mark Aguirre being unselfish. Not sure if you remember this but maybe you do. Remember how in the early 80s when Aguirre played for the Mavs, the narrative about Aguirre was that he played selfish basketball. Wasn't that team player that the Mavs needed. But if you remember the Mavs in that day, the Mavs were Aguirre! That dude carried that team! I was glad that Mark landed on the Pistons. Hated to see Adrian Dantley leave the Pistons but that is the nature of the business.

[@lashadow8]

Mo Betta I’m a lifelong Laker fan too! I obviously rooted against the Pistons when they were on top but my respect for all of them (even Laimbeer) runs deep....Beautiful team to watch in their glory years. Zeke is right, the Piston’s contributions to that golden era can’t be denied! Their fans, Chuck Daley and brand of ball is 2nd to None. Much respect to them.

[@lashadow8]

Kenneth Robinson I was young and didn’t understand the power of narratives back then. I get it now and I’m glad to hear Isaiah break it down so eloquently so that people understand what loyalty and unselfish sportsmanship really means. He elevated Aguirre (deservedly so) even more in my eyes.

[@kobeplayeddefensetoo1351]

Same

[@DacostaVieira]

This guy doesn’t age! Detroit Piston legend 🏀 🏆 🏆

[@garytee4507]

I always thought zeek favors n carries himself like Micheal Jackson, before he lost his mind of course

[@missayawk]

@@garytee4507 He's more like Jermaine, but definitely an honorary Jackson.If he said he was Michael Jackson's cousin I wouldn't even be shocked.

[@JimBowSlice]

Black don't crack

[@jaymoney6233]

Zeke is being modest af about his 1st game 😂😂😂 He said he did alright lol he had 31 points and 11 assists in his 1st ever NBA game.IMO, one of the most underrated PGs ever and tough af at 6'1.

[@DEEDUBZ]

Greatest player of all time. That boy coulda scored 50 every night if he wanted to

[@mobetta2092]

@@DEEDUBZ not dogging Kyrie but I'm just pointing out his game is an example of what Zeke's would've been if he wasn't more about making others around him better and winning championships because Zeke was an effortless magician of a ball handler and showman even playing within a championship system that he led

[@DEEDUBZ]

Kyrie great player. Shoula been Finals MvP back in '16. A magician but still has a lot to learn. Needs to integrate with teammates better out there on the floor. Zeke is the ideal player for him to mould a new game on. Shit he could even look at DRose right now. Still at a good age tho. Here's anticipating it works out with him and KD.

[@DEEDUBZ]

Jay Money and he weren't even really 6'1. He more like 5'10 and a half. But when humans are younger they're bones are a lot stronger due to a lack of thinning to the bones so that helps with height. He mighta been like 6'0 back then.

[@mobetta2092]

@@DEEDUBZ the only dangerous thing about he and KD being on the same team if I'm a Brooklyn fan is that both of them seem too eager to prove they're worthy of being the main reason their team wins a chip. They realize that they're viewed as two former co-stars by many. I like them both but I have a feeling that once things start going good, they may get in each other's way by wanting too bad to be the lead.

[@kedrick71]

I notice the way Q & D are kicking back listening to Isaiah like kids at a camp fire lol. Isaiah's a good man & very passionate.

[@DEEDUBZ]

ALL the players of the past era looked up to him growing up so they see him as Men like a big brother. That is (if you wanna talk like this) their Basketball God. Zeke

[@cattfisher4671]

U can tell he still appreciate the coach factor in Isaiah.. dope shit

[@alifrombenhill3374]

Yup....this is quietest ive ever seen Q. Lmao. The awe is real.

[@llman03]

Right I notice that too. They don't listen to other interviews like this.

[@teckktawk2424]

Isiah

[@lloydwalker2777]

All The Smoke and KnuckleHeads Back to Back With The Legends 🏋🏾‍♂️

[@Blassie.P]

Just in time for quarantine season this is saving my life rt now lol..☣☣☣😂🤣😂

[@dfromgarylantasota2439]

Unc Shay and Zeke!

[@guillermovazquez1084]

@Mr. Marshall idk they both Hall of Famers in there respective sports, played major roles in their teams winning championships, they got some comparison

[@dfromgarylantasota2439]

@Mr. Marshall Why not?... Shannon accomplished just as much in his Game as Zeke, AND has 3Chips to Zeke's 2

[@DefSquadFan]

Who is Shannon?

[@1love502]

Zeke is the originator, the architect of the modern point guard, there would be no shake and bake without Isiah

[@elbowgang9715]

@Ron Davis Earl Monroe was shaking and baking first in the league to be honest

[@abaileyjr97]

All Gucci Drip but none of them had the longevity of the Chicago PGs playboy. Isiah, Tim Hardaway, D Rose, Mo Cheeks

[@missayawk]

1 love. It's so funny you say that because there WAS shake and bake BEFORE Isiah....his name was Archie Clark....his nickname? Shake & Bake lol.

[@mashwork6615]

“My son is going to Indiana university” LMAO

[@henrywitherspoon8064]

Mash Work yo his mom is a savage lol

[@javonwilliams2746]

Mash Work 😂😂😂

[@TheIcemanthomas]

Momma ain’t play with em

[@PookieBanton87]

Hoo hoo hoo HOOSIERS!!!

[@oracleyoda5805]

gotta love it, go watch his HOF speech, come with tissues when he starts talking to his mom

[@dfrnt_hues]

Everyone lights up when they say “D.Rose” it’s amazing. I feels like everyone just loves the dude.

[@chistability5405]

It's genuine and real AF when they say he lived out all their dreams. Not only theirs but any Native Chicagoan who loved basketball and the Bulls. Proud to say 2 of the greatest to ever come out of Chicago are Englewood Natives. D. Rose and D. Wade. People don't know/realize that Wade is ORIGINALLY from the city/ Englewood

[@mobetta2092]

@@chistability5405as much love as we have in Detroit for our Pistons and D-Rose rockin with us, he belongs back on the Bulls.

[@NickSmithNBA]

Man, I love Isiah Thomas. The way he articulates himself and his stories are just 🔥🔥

[@LoyalOpposition]

I used to be a ball-boy for the Pistons... Isiah was the most realest and courteous man who gave us a lot of his free time, despite being the hardest worker. He won at EVERY level.

[@mobetta2092]

@@LoyalOpposition lucky you (I always thought how lucky ball boys were when I was a kid watching on TV...from the attire they wore, the court side action, close proximity, and interaction with all of players and refs). In 1988 after hearing George Blaha mention during a game the Pistons were looking for ball boys I convinced a 16-yr old kid from my neighborhood to ride the bus with me so I could put an application in a box at a Taco Bell on Harper Ave by Eastland Mall near Vernier/8 Mile next to a Vic Tanny's gym to be a ball boy for the Pistons (you couldn't tell me I wasn't going to be hired). I went home telling everyone I was gonna be a ball-boy. I told my parents and siblings to be on the listen and lookout for phone calls or mail (my sisters and parents ignored me like I was crazy but my 5 yr old brother was convinced I was getting the job)....the Pistons never called 😂 😂😂....not to mention i was 12 and lived in Detroit and didn't consider it wouldn't have mattered anyway because my parents weren't gonna drive me to the Pontiac Siverdome to clock in for a shift as ball boys especially on a school night. I still rocked with the Pistons and my all-time favorite player Zeke.

[@thsu8]

I was born in 1977. When I played in the driveway I was either Isiah or Jordan. Those two were the standard.

[@dee6965]

Zeke is the truth!

[@LoyalOpposition]

@@mobetta2092 That's awesome.

[@kevinjohnsonel9889]

Isiah Thomas is a true G. Never wavered never folded. While staying true to his roots and all that what his struggle stood for. Grown man business.

[@mobetta2092]

Some people are still salty over Isiah's brilliance. As great as he was, he recognized that his small stature was a liability in his journey to become a champion in a league of talented players who were much bigger in stature. Zeke recognized he had to crew up like a gang leader and instruct the bigger and stronger teammates how to change their mentalities, while he too took on a take no prisoner mentality to mentally intimidate and distract opponents to gain the advantage he needed to be successful. Now that the playing days are behind him, and the act is no longer needed, he's the genuinely respectful guy that he couldn't have been if he wanted to be the winner he was on the court.

[@thatguyfrom313]

​@@mobetta2092well stated.

[@Monter313]

Chicago GOAT .... The Original Detroit Bad Boy... Detroit vs. Everybody

[@hasanmuhammad573]

That's right the captain of the bad boys

[@XXL-Griefs]

03-04 Detroit Pistons better change my mind.

[@adgee5401]

Marvin Joseph Joe and Zeke hall of fame players. Rodman hall of fame player. Joe and Zeke better than Chauncey and Rip. Not to mention the bad boys won 2 chips. I could keep going and going and I love the going to work stones

[@adgee5401]

gary corr I was only replying to a comment.

[@kencoch7944]

I notice a lot of Mj underlying messages, which is well granted..... Isiah career also suffered because of the MJ effect. Mj represented the individualism and Isiah represented team, NBA didn’t like it, game changed forever!!!!

[@bruceholmes5252]

I remember seeing Isaiah running the streets on the Westside of Chicago looking to play basketball. I also went to the same high school with Mark A. and Eddie Johnson at the House.

[@mobetta2092]

You lucky O.G. you ✌🏿. Zeke's the man, and so are you for witnessing the legends you mentioned develop in real-time.

[@ygbachem9295]

You an O.G God Bless

[@dicethenicest1]

awesome! og for real!

[@realdripdontslip6465]

SHOUT OUT TO THE HOUSE IMA WESIDE BABY TOO.. U WENT TO SCHOOL WIT MY AUNTIE TOO BACK IN THE DAY 💯

[@anthonysmith9972]

Family stayed off Washington. Westside 🙌. No one gives Aguire the respect he deserves on the court. He stayed on the playground killing it

[@KillaMusiktv1BlACKEYEDCORN]

Isiah Thomas lowkey one of the funniest NBA personalities.

[@Supercilious-ok8ic]

Most definitely i get a kick out of him everytime i listen

[@LoyalOpposition]

He's hilarious and so knowledgeable. Always points out things no one else says - things even basketball player don't think of.

[@FailAdjustWin]

He lowkey🍭

[@creydadj]

After his coaching career ended he became a jokester.

[@jodiburrell6978]

Named my youngest after Zeke... My favorite player all time. Pound for pound the best PG ever #GreatestPGtolacethemup

[@OrondeBranch]

Facts!!

[@mobetta2092]

You're an excellent baby namer and favorite player of all-time selector 🙌🏿

[@tysontigner9820]

Me too but since he was ISIAH "LORD" THOMAS... I SPELLED MY SONS NAME ISIAYAH "YAH"...GET IT

[@cuyadawson5440]

Love Isaiah and how he represents us an intelligent, intellectual, hood black man that’s real and never forgets his roots...favorite point guard ever

[@jabbarinnewyork7778]

ISIAH (ZEKE OR PEE-WEE) IS A GOD BLESSED CLASS ACT. WE LOVE YA!!!!!

[@bionicprince]

“All my visits had to be in the daytime cause we didn’t have no lights...” Some people have an inner light that makes them light up the world!

[@intendedexpression6609]

Isiah is such a cool guy. Just one of those old heads you wanna converse with because he has legit life experience.

[@KISS_MY_CONVERSE]

They should get Mitch Richmond and Shawn Kemp on their show.

[@arcee3208]

Definitely!!

[@ROCBOYZGURLZ]

🔥

[@garytee4507]

Def Shawn Kemp!

[@charleymasubed2510]

Yes, pls...I cannot wait.

[@Middy3]

Man Shawn Kemp would be epic

[@musizmanradio]

Growing up in the D when the Pistons were 16-66 the year before they drafted Zeke and watching the Pistons develop with him...was some of the best times of my life...no doubt...The D!

[@LoyalOpposition]

Isiah is the greatest. Hope he gets on the "All The Smoke" podcast.

[@DEEDUBZ]

Greatest Basketball player and mind of all time. He can be commissioner of the league and things wouldn't be outta place one bit. The Basketball would certainly be 10 times better than what it is right now, but the NBA wants to go in a different direction. A more European style of Basketball. Which is shit!

[@richierich4330]

@@DEEDUBZ not saying he wouldnt be good but the league is doing great right now. It is softer but the fan base is at an all time high. Casual fans like no defense high scoring games so thats the way they're going

[@DEEDUBZ]

The league is shit. All the media and networks promote is a fraud..a phoney..a fake. A bum that they've throwed in 9 Finals and has lost 6 times. There are some excellent players like Durant, Leonard, Curry, Lillard and some others but they don't get the appreciation they deserve

[@limitlessmaestro2110]

DEE DUBZ strong feelings. And you do make some good points.

[@LoyalOpposition]

@@richierich4330 The new fan base doesn't know basketball. The league is so damn soft, endless replays, everything is a flagrant, players cry their way out of teams to play for the Nets.. You have very little basketball talk nowadays, just stats that any dork can pull up.

[@MMW25]

Didnt start the vid yet but I already know I’m gonna hear Q say “I’m from Chicago” at least 80 times 😂

[@milescagejr6987]

Of course Chicago all day. My mom always says there's a Chicago connection

[@oochskillayoung]

I feel him bro. We Chicagoans have a lot of pride just like New Yorkers, and people from L.A

[@jaxjr121]

Exactly!!!! It's quite annoying........ #smh

[@abaileyjr97]

Kevin Graves nah man that’s in yo mind

[@eugenepearsoniii9902]

@@kevingeezy5176 naw not for real tho G...East St. Louis is crazy but it ain't fucking with Chiraq

[@nwar1]

dont usually comment on vids but this is my heart! Love Zeke...love how Q gave him his flowers...if u are from Detroit u will never comprehend how they can fix their mouths to mention MJ and Kobe and NOT put Isiah right there...straight up leader and straight KILLER

[@anthonyclark9441]

They're disrespectful SUCKERS, for not even putting Zeke in the conversation.

[@WO2411]

When Chicago people put Drose above Zeke and dwade as the GOAT from Chicago that should let you know how big his impact was on the game and the city cause Zeke is arguably the greatest to ever play from Chicago 💯

[@Kevo1993]

Let’s not forget Terry Cummings and Zeke’s teammate in Detroit Mark Aguirre.

[@mika3088]

one of the best leaders of all time

[@chistability5405]

Rose was on his way to take Zeke spot. Rose from my neighborhood on the South Side and Zeke from my ex-wife neighborhood on the West Side still friends with her

[@WO2411]

poppa slim 💯💯

[@mobetta2092]

While D-Rose was definitely that guy, there's no comparing the two. A lotta D-Rose love rightfully so stems from him being from and playing for Chicago. As the hometown kid, if Isiah did for Chicago what he did for Detroit, Chicagoans would've given Zeke holidays. Edit: I think it plausible to compare D-Rose and D-Wade. If D-Rose was on those Heat championship teams playing at his peak (instead of D-Wade), in the same roles as D-Wade alongside of Shaq and Mourning in 06, and with Bron and Bosh in 2012 & 2013, I don't doubt for a moment he wouldn't have been able to perform as Wade did (and that's no knock on Wade). However, I doubt if either of them would've been able to do what Zeke did in Detroit because Zeke had a no prisoner/screw the world attitude and identity that he indisputably led the team and made others better with (and that's no knock on the legends of Wade and Rose).

[@christophe-michelkane4844]

Zeke a real icon, a real legend, a real O.G. Thank you Q & Darius and the Player's Tribune team for giving us this. Love from London, England.

[@ProfessorZo]

Isiah Thomas is a legend. Glad to see him on this platform. Literally changed the game 🙏🏾

[@DEEDUBZ]

Id say this one and the Pat Bev one is their top 2. But damn them boys got many tho

[@vdf27]

Zeke is a legend, slept on so much. When people rank Steph higher than Zeke on all time lists it shows who really has bball knowledge.

[@malcolmcash6854]

YOU RIGHT

[@h.s936]

I thing that Steph is really a shooting guard just live Iverson. Zeek is a pure point.

[@Pheonixttty]

This guy is the only man who smiles all of the time but was a G on the court

[@harlemworld2083]

Isiah remains one of the most underrated NBA legends of all time. On and off the court. Politics on this man - but he rose above it still. All the respect. This is THAT dude. True Legend.

[@aaronflowers8881]

Isiah is my favorite player of all time. I absolutely love listening to him talk basketball. His IQ is so high and he's entertaining.

[@ManpreetSingh-fs8ws]

Knuckleheads Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Yall dont know how real its been with these podcasts during these sad boring ass days. Yall the 🐐🐐s 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. And Zekkeee tooo Omggg

[@shaqmills2072]

With u

[@KingoftheJungle214]

All the smoke

[@marvinhunt117]

I remember Zeke at Indiana and he was killin'! I've been a Zeke fan from Indiana through Detroit. He was and is one those players who for real don't give a damn if you like him but you will respect him. He really did earn that respect and his nickname "General". Eventhough he may be a little "different" for their show, I would love to see them with what I consider the ultimate Knucklehead, Dennis Rodman.

[@phade2blaq]

He was killin it in high school too. He owned Chicago before Jordan came to the Bulls.

[@jorel3223]

Zeek look like he just retiring... Aging very well...

[@missayawk]

DMiles look older than Zeke

[@xDreMack]

@@missayawk that's what money does.

[@coleeason6007]

That's that indigenous blood

[@romeowilliams8020]

He looks like Jermaine Jackson

[@coleeason6007]

@@romeowilliams8020 sorta but if Jermaine would've stayed away from the plastic surgery they would nothing a like

[@chicity222]

The greatest basketball player from Chicago... ‼️ my pops favorite player

[@Priestradamus]

This ain’t Derrick Rose

[@chicity222]

Terik Priest I know .. you obviously can’t read .. everybody from Chicago know zeke is the 🐐 of Chicago

[@courtland7856]

Man I’m from Chicago everybody knows it’s Derrick Rose

[@chicity222]

Jay N nah bro it’s zeke .. Pooh is #2 but zeke got two nba champion and a NCAA championship .. that’s major

[@Priestradamus]

Kenzie and Amyrah Gorgeous Derrick Rose is better at basketball than Isiah Thomas bruh

[@nicknite10]

Darius Miles came with some great questions! You can't have great answers,without great questions!🏀🇺🇸

[@lutherodanielsjr7876]

D Miles is so cool 😎

[@lorenzojackson7955]

I have a new respect for Zeke, being from Philly for whatever reason my pop hates him (and Magic), but he seems like a good dude

[@tellyyytelly7583]

Zeke got the funniest laugh man, it’s infectious and he really be rolling with laughter

[@calvingotajob4583]

Soon as I seen the thumbnail...CLICK!!! Zeke Thomas!!

[@11thWoods]

That Magic/Zeke moment when they made up made me cry!! If u knew their history, that shit got to u..

[@LoyalOpposition]

I cried, too. I'm glad Magic finally apologized (after believing Leon Rose' lies)

[@mobetta2092]

@@LoyalOpposition Zeke had to remind Magic that he was well aware that HIV wasn't only contracted through same gender sex because his own brother contracted HIV from using contaminated needles as a drug addict. Magic rightfully apologized for not going to Isiah directly as a man and friend.

[@KingoftheJungle214]

Why what happen

[@SuperC55AMG]

That was tough because Zeke and Magic were brothers and nothing; the fame, the money, the spotlight, was never going to break them up, but it did. And for all they went through growing up to let some superficial Hollywood bullshit break them up right from underneath them for many years was painful.

[@joedavis8980]

@gary corr 😂😂😂

[@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION]

Yay!!!!! The Legend!! My favorite Player Ever! Zeke!!

[@LoyalOpposition]

GOAT

[@jj9442]

Zeke is my guy for real. Crazy that I just saw this. I grew up on the Westside of Chicago, went to Resurrection (the same grade school), and played BB. He was indeed a legend. He opened up Chicago Catholic league schools to actively recruit talented and capable young players from the Westside due to his success. Before #23, #11 was the number that point guards yearned for, and why, because of Zeke. He was and remains the PG standard for us…

[@phade2blaq]

If you looked up PG in the dictionary, it would be a picture of Isiah. Dude was stone cold assassin and that cheap shot Karl Malone put on him because he was torching John Stockton after the Dream Team was dirty but Isiah was sending a message to those who thought Stockton was a better PG which he wasn't.

[@donaldsmith6737]

As a Detroiter that moved to the South in 2005, I didn't realize how similar people are from those two cities. Of course when living there, Chicagoans were the rivals..in EVERYTHING. We compared ourselves to Chicago....in all sports, fashion, even our downtown landscapes....etc. But being away, when I run into folks from Chicago, they are familiar to me. Shot out to all Chicagoans and Detroiters ....who no longer reside, but have it in their blood.

[@DomB2012]

Q be going hard for his city lol

[@stringer2295]

Dom if he doesn’t mention Chicago at least 15 is it a real knuckleheads episode? 🤣🤣🤣

[@hassanabdul-khaaliq9645]

SOUTHSIDE! !!!

[@mobetta2092]

From a Detroiter I salute that all day... wuddup doe Chi-Town

[@TheSands83]

St. Louis!!! Represent! Grew up as a kid on east side now live in st Charles

[@jsnwardell39]

@@mobetta2092 As a Chicagoan, What's Up Joe! Much Respect!

[@dennwilliams3342]

Prob one of their best interviews ever and im not even a Zeke fan. This episode and the Kobe one Top 5 .

[@DarkKnight-rw7yy]

Isaiah gives respect for his handle to Curly Neal. RIP Curly Neal.

[@terrywilson8240]

Man i love knuckleheads..this is the best show period. I really appreciate everything this show brings to the table

[@Tha_R]

Agreed. All The Smoke gets all the hype...but these guys really love basketball and get into the history of the game.

[@terrywilson8240]

@@Tha_R hellyea...theyre just reg cats..everything isnt forced. Comes natural

[@ck6103]

Definition of smooth Dude could walk out of a gun fight unscaved

[@LoyalOpposition]

Agreed

[@dariusewing6962]

Mr. Thomas is a wonderful human and I truly appreciate his heartfelt words of wisdom and love about life in a profession setting and in life! Love this podcast! Great job

[@mobetta2092]

Indeed he is. All the hate he gets is unfair by silly people who don't realize that because of his small stature being such a liability in his sport, he had to resort to mentally distracting his opponents to gain an advantage on the court. This is why he came across so vicious towards Jordan and Bird (his greatest eastern conference threats), all the while he genuinely respected their games.

[@michaelpollard439]

I love the fact that you started off with mr. Thomas you could have used any other name I'm sure you put some thought into it I could be wrong

[@quinntonexecute]

Love old heads and their stories. I don’t fast forward once. Bring more 80s and 90s Stars on here if at All possible

[@guillermovazquez1084]

They need to bring Dr J on here

[@xxweshmoke420dotcomofficia7]

Zeke's character stands the test if time. Eventually more fans will acknowledge this man's greatness. Toronto loves Isaiah Thomas

[@stefa00]

Such as talented storyteller. Calm voice perfect speech pace. Love you bad boy Zeke

[@AkeemDenim]

In this difficult situation it is such a blessing to have great content like this to entertain you and learn from. Definitely much appreciated!

[@joejett5084]

Clicked on this asap. I love hearing him speak. Wise, witty, and humble.

[@Kevo1993]

These brothers definitely need to be on mainstream tv with this podcast!! They are interviewing Zeke!!! Man they also had Kobe, Shaq, if they could get MJ, that’ll be icing on the cake!!

[@chistability5405]

That would be the triple crown. If Jordan does do it it would probably be with these 2 first before anyone else because they with Jordan Brand since they were either rookies or 2nd year.

[@Kevo1993]

Chistability I can see D.Miles asking MJ, “Who was the first person to bust yo ass when you first got to the league.” MJ answers: “Really Nigga??” 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@DEEDUBZ]

lol Kevo. This is the right time to have Jordan on though. And true Chistability, Q & D were rocking Jordan since they literally came into the league. If anyone can get a Jordan hangout player wise it's these 2

[@kingshottah4429]

IT was Kyrie before Kyrie when it came to handles

[@marcus.6487]

n-damn-deed...mane was 2 fuqn cold ✊🏿

[@marvinhunt117]

Zeke was the only one that had it like "THAT" back then.

[@dariusewing6962]

KINGSHOTTAH442 facts

[@mobetta2092]

Maaaaaaaannnnnnnn you know how many people I've said that same DAMN THANG to in person and online. Damn near wanna shake the crap outta some of these thick skulled kids out here over that very point you made.

[@chistability5405]

FACTS 💯

[@mobetta2092]

When I saw the thumbnail I IMMEDIATELY 🧐😢🤤😵🤯. My favorite basketball player of all-time. The beautiful Ms. Mary Thomas's (R.I.P) last born, the man, legend, who forever is good anywhere at anytime in any parts of our City of Detroit... ISIAH LORD THOMAS aka ZEKE to that MAX!!!!! Q & D-MILES y'all out ya hookups for this one here my dudes!!!!!

[@nettyballball497]

Bring rasheed Wallace,Chris Webber and mike Bibby, Reggie/Cheryl miller....💯💯 ray Allen as well and T-mac!!!

[@Gaiwn]

niga shut ur wack ass up

[@alexandermerritt3504]

Nettyball Ball whit chocolate Jason Williams

[@bryanwilliamsjr.5712]

@@Gaiwn What's up with the superfluous hostility & negativity?!,

[@FlashGordon2fast]

Gaiwn. Bitch you shut up pussy

[@rukawa23gold]

@@Gaiwn Please go back to Pornhub and Grindr. This channel is not for the pervert and insane.

[@kingdingaling2469]

Isiah definitely deserves even more credit. This ep alone should millions of views

[@dfromgarylantasota2439]

Damn! I did'nt know S.Marburys' Dad died in the Stands😞... And they Boo'd him. New York fans are Savage! R.I.P!

[@mobetta2092]

Both of you are 100% on point

[@chistability5405]

I didn't know/ remember that either. I need to research that for sure

[@RonnyTheGamer]

Trav not even close man.. Philly is easily #1. Them fans really dont give a fuck

[@mobetta2092]

@@RonnyTheGamer yes Philly does have a rep but have you ever heard of them booing a moment of silence for the death of someone who died in the stands of a sporting event?

[@missayawk]

@@mobetta2092 They booed Santa Claus on Christmas ( Eagle fans)

[@flightklub7740]

Isiah looking like a proud dad on the intro..lol

[@marcusmaxwell9487]

They going at All The Smoke it's back tied now lol

[@troubadro]

That good comp!!

[@TheIcemanthomas]

Notice they always drop Back to back

[@marcusmaxwell9487]

@@TheIcemanthomas Facts

[@flightklub7740]

I give the nod to this group..knuckleheads the truth..but both are good especially the Garnett Interview

[@LaidbackNarration3000]

Knuckleheads ask better questions, but both are winning......all the smoke ask dwayne gayde bout his son , nobody wanna hear bout tht bullshit ,gossipy ass questions.......Blessed#

[@ryanjoslyn]

I’m at the 1:20:00 mark, and as I watch and listen so intently, I’ve realized that I don’t want it to end. Great interview, thank you for sharing this with us here!

[@fatimadaniels6098]

Loved this episode. Knuckleheads are lit. Love Isiah. He a gentlemen. This man has got swag, and they way he portrays himself, his Momma should be proud. Love the way she shows up and shows out without the fanfare needed. Much respect from South Africa bro.

[@EDRISSALEXIS21]

@ 1:07:00 Shout Out to Curly Neal (GLOBTROTTER).., we lost him Today.

[@kdow000]

I definitely couldn't miss this one, A LEGEND speaking!

[@gavinnaughton5136]

“Top Fiftyiest players of all time” D Miles 🤣🤣

[@morganzimmerglass9925]

gavin naughton in the history

[@yonnylumps8702]

Nigga cant talk😂😂😂😂

[@mauricemartin2982]

The legend of chi town

[@mobetta2092]

And Detroit.

[@thefaisonviewpodcast_]

A killer on the court. Isaiah a all time great. Top 3 Pg Ever

[@joseyeastwood]

The man is a walking encyclopedia.

[@DavidSmith-ci9wc]

This was just Beautiful! Being born and raised in Michigan I love Midwestern dialogue . D asked great questions with an honorable tone towards the older Zeke.

[@95thefish]

I personally prefer Knuckleheads over All the smoke, both great podcasts, but Knuckleheads just feels more funnier and I like the guests! Plus that intro keeps getting better and better lol

[@louieb8530]

Isiah is one of the most competitive players I ever seen! Good job KnuckleHeads keep it up 👍

[@NewEraSportsPodcast]

Zeke was the man when he played....He had the heart of Lion!

[@phade2blaq]

Well he had to use whatever he could because he's not the biggest guy but he always stood his ground.

[@MrTriggerhappy513]

Being from Detroit this interview was special to me. Zeke is (and always was) a "real" one. You can just feel the authenticity when he speaks.

[@markj6681]

This coronavirus got me watching all old school basketball. Now they got John Salley on Vlad.

[@coollibra3644]

I've been watching MJ highlights and top 50 plays all week

[@markj6681]

@@coollibra3644 You can never go wrong with MJ.

[@coollibra3644]

@@markj6681 facts. His wizard days are underrared

[@markj6681]

@@coollibra3644 I was just thinking that. Look, I am Lebron fan but if MJ had not taken that time to play baseball and just played straight through, his scoring numbers would have been untouchable.

[@nossida89fan]

Mark J vlad always got salley on there 😂

[@javianjohnson8746]

Yessir we got ourselves a Bad Boy Piston!! Isaih and that crew showed how REAL, TOUGH basketball is supposed to be played! Not this soft stuff we have nowadays. I miss that era so much...when MEN played the game!!

[@KobaniacMinded]

Nah

[@tronskee32]

That shit was super over the top. I mean they got two chips so I understand that it worked but they played dirty a lot.

[@mrhoopfan1]

It would be similar now but Ron Artest situation switched the whole game up

[@sammymac2546]

Yeah NO we don’t wanna see people hacking all game. Just play defense and move your feet

[@LoyalOpposition]

@@sammymac2546 pussies like pussy ball.

[@quarlesj777]

Baaaad Boys! Piston for Life over here!

[@christopherbrownlee4587]

Curly Neal passed away today the day this was published amazing.

[@Stank-Stankson]

Zeke, the man who made me the hardcore Pistons fan that I am to this day. Always Loved Zeke's spirit he's the best Piston player to ever play here hands down. Much love to ya Zeke!

[@LoyalOpposition]

Agreed

[@aaronhutchinson885]

Dope interview. Zeke will never get his credit. Top 3 pg of all time..no questions asked. Last small to win it. If he was playing now, he would avg 28 n 12 easy..

[@1love502]

If he played for dantoni he'd probably average over 40 ppg

[@CS-np2oo]

As a Celtics fan I can confirm.....Isaiah could throw dem hands ! He didn't back down. 😄😂💯

[@phade2blaq]

When you up like some of these dudes, fighting is sadly part of survival and the ones who couldn't throw hands was in for a long day.

[@rodiceclayjr9887]

Zeke the man. I'll never forget as a shorty, I was about 11 or 12. I was at an after school program on North n Kedzie, the man just rolled up out of nowhere. Me n my boy was going crazy bcuz we were like the only ones who knew who he was. As far as the kids. Anyway, long story short, the man gave me 50 bucks just for having straight A's, all 4 quarters babyyyy. The other kids were salty as hell. He was like, "See kids, being smart gets you paid". I was too geeked. Me n my squad spent that shit at Rainbow. Salute to Zeke. The city loves u bro

[@davon4470]

Haven't even watch five minutes and hit the like button.

[@chistability5405]

Not even 30 seconds for me. Hit like as soon as I clicked the vid! Zeke the OG and GOAT of Chicagoans who made it to the NBA

[@mobetta2092]

Although I'm proud of the both of you, you both need to work on increasing your reactionary speed time to hit those like buttons for anything saluting Zeke.

[@davon4470]

@@mobetta2092 😁😂👍✊

[@TommyGibbs1]

Mo Betta 😂😂😂💯💯

[@P-Atonement]

People never talk about Mark Aguirre and how cold dude was.Didnt really look the part, but he could score on anyone.Isiah Thomas looks like he hasn’t aged since he was playing,at all

[@paullee1057]

The greatest point guard ever

[@rodjdagod8136]

If yall aint noticing Zeek looks young as hell. Dude is very impressive given the fact that Magic, Jordan and Bird are the ones they stay talking about. Poor black kid from Chicago, no father to mention of he is the most remarkable one to speak on. Undersized, black, chicago, turned himself into a boss. Go check the history he helped change a lot. Love for Zeke from me from this day on.

[@dee6965]

Don't let that smile of Zeke fool you , he was a assassin on that court!

[@hermanhodnettiii5437]

Content wise this was by far the best interview. Isaiah is so well spoken.

[@ct3mae]

That was a great point about Bill Lambeer. Interesting that he never got a coaching job in the NBA

[@jalenad11]

Will Zaza get a coaching job?

[@ct3mae]

Jalen Davis Zaza didn’t coach a team to 3 championships in the WNBA. So... probably not.

[@mangrove]

He'll go in as a coach. He was one of the top rebounders in the 80s. Rodman learned a lot about positioning and tapping the ball to himself from watching Laimbeer.

[@mobetta2092]

@@mangrove I see you know your stuff. Laimbeer was grossly underrated as a rebounder. Before Rodman's "arrival" Laimbeer was definitely the rebounding guy for the Pistons.

[@mobetta2092]

Who else other than Zeke could analyze Laimbeer's contribution to the game in such an unexplored manner?

[@kmt131989]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 y'all and "all the smoke" GOATS

[@onceevery4years]

the way I just casually liked the video while Isiah Thomas was talking lol was hypnotized 🤣🤣

[@justlikebck5162]

Isaiah I swear look like a member of the jacksons

[@mobetta2092]

My wife tells me he looks like Jermaine Jackson every time Zeke's on TV talking....to which my response is always to pause the TV, look at her, and asks if she's finished so I can continue listening to his knowledge. (She also feels the need to remind me that Matt Barnes is the ex-husband of some hip-hop wife she watches on TV....and I have to do the same pause button routine with that as well).

[@stir410]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 right

[@lovell123456789]

A more nourished version of Jermaine😁

[@boonz47]

🤣🤣🤣 Guts!!!

[@gregorygray1660]

JustLikeBc K 😂😂🤣

[@garytee4507]

My takeaway from this interview; "damn college coaches were offering 100racks back in the early 80's" :)

[@mobetta2092]

The coaches were expressing their gratitude for players coming to their program over others and ensuring their own job was secure by sharing the wealth with players and families who gave them the best chance at winning. When you analyze that reality for what it is, that's an extremely modest and nobel gesture by those coaches who were paying young men and their families a portion of the millions in revenue their skills were generating for the university overall. Look up Charles Barkley talking about the money he was paid at Auburn (, and he entered the NBA in 1984)...my man Chuck says he gladly accepted thousands that he used for himself and passed along to his mother, grandmother, and brothers. Without it he says he would've left college earlier.

[@tankmoney]

Imagine what they get now

[@mobetta2092]

@@tankmoney for real. and rightfully so

[@tidianeba5664]

I can see the progress on this podcast. Q talking way less & not cutting the guest everytime to tell a story about him, i fw dat!!

[@ricoalexander6379]

everytime they ask the “who was the first to buss ya ass” question it always reminds me of how corny patrick beverley is for not answering

[@Bballhero123]

Rico Alexander facts. Pat ego waaaaay too high 😂🤣

[@sgkoolaid619]

Rico Alexander Bro facts, seen pat bev get destroyed so many times

[@jobansaini5647]

Ya I don’t think a player like pat bev will answer that until his career is over.

[@stringer2295]

Yea, all these great players put their ego aside and that dusty nigga had the nerve to say nobody

[@chistability5405]

Lol I was wondering if I was the only one who thought that.