Isiah Thomas 12x NBA All Star on Detroit Bad Boys, Magic Johnson & Feud w/ Michael Jordan |The Pivot

[@lilboosie5]

Can we take minute to realize how great he looks at 61 years old 🙌🏾

[@arthurfonzarelli9828]

I just wrote the same thing but I've said this forever with him. I seriously don't think there is a younger looking person I've ever seen in my life at 61. He could seriously pass for 35 years old it's amazing

[@lilboosie5]

@@arthurfonzarelli9828 yes indeed. He's always smiling too

[@LeslieErin44]

Isiah Thomas will forever be my all time favorite NBA player.

[@arthurfonzarelli9828]

@@LeslieErin44 me as well. You must probably be around 50 years old I bet. Probably grow up in the Michigan area as well. The Pistons are a perfect story from that era of how a team got better and better and better each year until they want it all. Couple times they fell short it was almost storybook

[@hairjordan2620]

@@arthurfonzarelli9828 BJ Armstrong

[@JasonWalkerJamaica]

“Don’t mistake honesty & truth, as my dislike or disdain” - great line Isiah Thomas!

[@DrPhill96]

Dislike* or distain.

[@JuiceJonesCreates.]

Facts

[@casanovacasanova5464]

I got to remember this Quote

[@leslieevans3259]

@@DrPhill96 *disdain*

[@JohnWick-gl6mw]

Cold 🥶 🧊

[@johnc.richardson2713]

As a life-long MJ fan, I came here to call BS when I heard it. I didn't do anything to this dude but still feel like I owe him an apology. He gave great context to the situations he's been in and feel like I really understand the man. Great interview.

[@emmanuelenyinwa1443]

Big of you to acknowledge that. Not the biggest Isiah fan, but notice how there was BARELY any mention of how jaw dropping AWESOME he was as a basketball player. Somehow, the MAN himself seems bigger than the player, which is an amazing accomplishment by itself.

[@phade2blaq]

The NBA much the way they did for Lebron wanted to push Jordan into an ECF or NBA Finals but Philly, Boston, and LA were too damn good and Jordan could not beat them by himself nor with the roles players he had around him early on.

[@Solis.shck574]

@@phade2blaq The NBA did not like Lebron the same way they liked MJ tho. Even when Bron came to the league he didn't have a franchise that wanted to build around him. He was the KD for 4 years in Miami before he came back to Cleveland

[@robertcherry7190]

Excellent post. Good for you.

[@frankodilon5807]

When the media tells you something else

[@billyblackmon4796]

Isiah always smiles when he talks and he speaks with emphasis and clarity. His pacing and his hand gestures are unique and emphatic. What a gift he has with his ability to talk and communicate

[@jay1winner]

I said the same thing

[@theinsite2668]

Yeah he’s very educated. He said he would have been a lawyer if he didn’t play basketball

[@DEEDUBZ]

The Man is a national treasure

[@darnellplan5015]

Obama spoke the same way too

[@nelsonrivera764]

he is the epitome of eloquence

[@agreen06]

I'm 53 years old, and as a proud Detroiter, I can't find adequate words to describe what this man has meant to me, and our city. He is our hero. My son was born 3 years after Isiah Thomas retired. He grew up loving basketball, and modeled his game after his Dad's favorite player. I still carry this man's 1986 card in my wallet to this day.

[@tomascancel8227]

Same here born and raised and he was and is a legend over here

[@albread]

Detroit in the house.

[@maciekjoker9095]

Man, im form other side of Earth - Europe. I was born in 1989 and i like 80s and 90s NBA League a lot. Also Thomas. Great Detroit, 2x nba champ, bad boys. I still watching nba from that time. I have a big collection of classics games amd finals.

[@TheBaldBabe]

@@maciekjoker9095that’s dope!

[@phade2blaq]

Isiah is the real deal and that's why he always caught flack because unlike Jordan and Magic, Isiah was not an Uncle Tom. On top of that he doesn't nor has he ever sugarcoated how he grew up in extreme poverty. Could you imagine Magic or Jordan sitting in an interview saying they had roaches and no lights and no food. Isiah keeps it 100!

[@graysonred2641]

“My son’s not for sale” I respect the resilience from his mother

[@kris.jo2]

Wow the guts and courage of that mom to say "my son is not for sale".. knowing you have no food, no electricity.. what a woman!!

[@percybland256]

WOMEN HAD CHARACTER AND COURAGE THEN!! WILLING TO DIE FOR IT!!!

[@malcolmx724]

I'm 60yrs old from NYC. It wasn't guts, courage...pride, duty, no nonsense, strength! It had to be by the "good book" religious women, who would not comprise! It allowed me and my sister, to the first and only from our generation to receive BAs and masters degrees. All our kids have at least BAs, one a PhD. God rest her wonderful soul🙏🏾

[@Comedyvibes]

Jesus Loves you and wants you to accept him as your Lord and saviour

[@ladonmclemore927]

Zeke giving nothing but FACTS and Receipts!!!🔥🔥🔥🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@dionmorgan8482]

Real shit 💯 bacc in da day mom these young mom now dam 🦫💯

[@erikajones6405]

An Isiah Thomas DOCUMENTARY is NEEDED!!! LOVED every minute of the interview!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@tellitlikeitisfresh6541]

Cap

[@IZZICC]

Definitely overdue

[@T..1147]

It's called a mother's courage

[@JasonWalkerJamaica]

FAAAACCCTTTSSSSSS!!!!!! Pleeeeease!

[@chowoods]

They did a TV movie about his mother back in the day

[@raw720]

I'm born and raised in Detroit. What the world doesn't understand is that Detroit was basically hopeless. Isiah came to Detroit when it had been the murder capital for 4 years straight, and would continue to be so until 1986. It wasn't until I watched Zeke and the Pistons battle against the NBA one man gang, Bernard King. The games the Pistons won it seemed like the city was nicer to each other on those days. The city had something to be proud of. Not to mention the Pistons was something that all races could be proud of. Detroit is the Blackest city in the whole USA. It was crazy to see Caucasians happily discussing basketball with Blacks, Arabs and Hispanics. The atmosphere of the city changed because of what Zeke brought to The D. Thanks Zeke! The D loves you no matter what! JUST REMEMBER... YOU CAN'T HAVE BATMAN WITHOUT THE JOKER. YOU CAN'T HAVE SUPERMAN WITHOUT LEX LUTHER, SO YOU CAN'T HAVE MAGIC, BIRD OR JORDAN WITHOUT ZEKE!

[@braxtonthomas6194]

Very well written. Great narrative of the time. I was there also. Detroit westside. Livernois and Tireman. Chadsey Mackenzie Northwestern The Kronk The Y The Boys Club Webber Drew Munger Sherrill Pattengail.

[@SPtheGREAT]

FACTS!!!

[@j.malone3291]

A M E N

[@b.o.1951]

This was one of the best interviews of the year. The Pivot keeps getting better and better. Shout out the Legend Mr Isiah Thomas 🙏🏽

[@23kingdaze]

Can we stop with the better and better narrative! They haven’t missed yet , they are the top of the chain

[@cUnHeavenCuzMoyacca]

💪🏾💯✊🏾

[@Ohsosweettango]

Agreed. The respect and reverence are off the charts, yet there still the humility and depth. Much appreciated.

[@majorbarnes4090]

Ain't that the truth

[@jamesthomes303]

@@23kingdaze can't stop won't stop pivot podcast they get down baby

[@jamarrjenkins8824]

Isiah telling unknown stories backed by facts. I love it!

[@tellitlikeitisfresh6541]

Cap

[@Shemzinho]

@@tellitlikeitisfresh6541 prove it then

[@johnwalkeristhatdude3018]

What’s facts

[@dsongbird]

He is still only speaking from his perspective

[@terryburney545]

@@Shemzinhodid you not listen our your hate for the man got you so gone that you don’t want to hear truth, plus go research

[@swilliam81]

Love Isaiah! So underrated. We need a part two to highlight his basketball accomplishments. Dude played game 6 of the 1988 Finals and scored 25 points in the third quarter on ONE foot!!!! Legend!!!!!

[@mrbdx]

Talk about it!!!

[@aaronflowers8881]

ISIAH

[@ishetrying]

We legitimately need an eight part documentary about Isiah Thomas. He has an incredible story even before he gets to the NBA and the story continues after he's done as a player. Also in telling his story well you can talk about so many societal issues.

[@ishetrying]

Also, I meant to say thank you so much for this episode. This is one of the best interviews I've seen with Isiah.

[@relaxsleepdreamrepeat_]

They made a movie about his mother..The Mary Thomas story

[@fredleeland2464]

The amount of kids that looked up to him in the 80s for getting to the top in basketball is absurd Then the NBA had to commodize the "struggle" to sell shoea for MJ and Lebron smh

[@melijahcopeland4101]

No we don’t

[@Edd1e8]

I’m a Laker fan and Magic has always been my favorite player, but Isiah has to be the most inspirational to me as an adult who’s encountered countless hardships. Isiah did the most with the least around him. He’s the definition of enduring and perseverance. That part about him losing a fist fight with the host says it all. He’ll literally just keep coming back and that’s how they played ball. When I look back at their 1988 team, they didn’t look like much on paper. But it was the war on every possession that eventually beat the opponents. Btw - I do think that 88 team had more talent than 89 with Aguirre :)

[@derreckmcintosh]

As a man that grew up in the same neighborhood of Isiah I must say I'm proud of the man he was and is

[@goodjohnhunting]

Awesome

[@mhouston06]

Isiah speaks of the summer when he was with Magic, Mark Aguirre, George Gervin, and Dr. J... they were all at the Dr. Tucker/ Magic Johnson camp in East Lansing that summer. I was a high school player then and had the privilege of playing at that camp. I stood on the sideline after one session and talked with Isiah about life. He spoke to me as a person and not as a basketball player. I remember the kindness they showed and how they understood they were more than players to us.

[@c.p.h.9264]

YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! shot out to Tucks Camp (Gimme 5 on ready!) I went the years Steve Smith was the main attraction...some of the best times of my basketball life ✌🏾

[@marquemarano969]

@mhouston06 I was there that year also, I was in the sixth grade and I played on the same team as Isaiah nephew at the camp.

[@citizenscapital2458]

Nice! San Antonian here. I grew up on Gervin back when he came to SA of the ABA in 1974. Great times! Got to see a young Dr. J, Moses Malone, Larry Kenon, Artis Gilmore, David Thompson, Marvin Barnes, Dan Issle, James Silas, super John Williamson, etc. All for a $5 ticket to get in for a nose bleed seat...Another $1 got you a hamburger and coke.....great times!

[@kennethcarmen2152]

I had the pleasure of working with isiah thomas at NBC, one of the greatest people I've ever met! Strong, humble, friendly and no nonsense at the same time!!

[@davidhall4401]

He seems very down to earth like a regular guy on the street, similar to John Stockton. I'm glad he's not coaching anymore because he wasn't happy. I think Zeke is a great basketball mind, but they didn't want him to succeed as a coach.

[@MrBjorn6]

@@davidhall4401 my cousin was his neighbor in Indiana, he was extremely nice 👍

[@gambitchips3329]

Shut up

[@poocrayon4588]

@@davidhall4401 He was a real good commentator in the 90's as well.

[@davidhall4401]

@@poocrayon4588 Yeah he was. Zeke covered all the big games back then.

[@ballritualzprod]

Bad Boys group chat 2:30 600k subs - 5:00 Coach Knight - 9:46 IT mom with a gun - 13:32 Family of activist - 20:05 IT called an asshole - 28:44 MJ getting to Chicago - 34:10 5 GM’s - 35:49 Bad Boys lockerroom - 39:12 Piston road to the finals- 42:15 1988 Game 6 - 46:40 MJ/LeBron money made - 52:25 Magic Johnson - 53:50 IT as a coach - 1:06:30 Fan meets IT & cries - 1:12:20 IT documentary ? - 1:15:18

[@brandonbeauchamp6576]

Appreciate it goat 🐐🐐🐐

[@theplug201]

Thank you man 🙌🏿

[@neal6473]

Great information thank you.

[@MeaganBetter]

Appreciate you!!!

[@FBaned]

👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@charlesjones1588]

Once again the Pivot and their guest Isaiah Thomas touched the soul of the sports world through storytelling. Great job men!

[@tsalter11]

People from Detroit understand the importance and significance that Zeke and the Pistons have to basketball and the “D”. Thx Zeke for what you did for the Detroit community. Thx to the Pivot Bruhs y’all are doing a great job!!! Great interview with my man Zeke 💪🏾

[@MylesWMiller]

No doubt!!!

[@mariohenley716]

He meant everything to us in Detroit...... Still love him!!

[@ericharris7577]

💯

[@jasonwebb6150]

Born and raised in the D. Zeke and Barry were like gods to me as a kid.

[@T..1147]

What up doe we need that Coleman A Young movie as well Terrance Howard as mayor Young would be great

[@lukata77]

I'm 50 years old, I was in 9th grade during the Bad Boy Era and I been watching the Pistons since Isiah was in his 3rd year and those outside of Detroit can't even fathom how much we loved Zeke, and not just for being an all star and not just for winning us a couple of championships but because he stood up for our community and he loved our community and he gave to our community and he was our community. Isiah could walk through any hood in Detroit and we had pure love for him because he was always so accessible and the most professional role model I've ever seen as an athlete! Detroit loves you Zeke!

[@gtspeed600hp]

FACTS!!! Detroit born, and raised here with you.

[@WeKnowTheDifference]

Man that's love bro. I'm from out west in Chicago and we love Zeke until the Pistons started beating our ass literally. He's right that they painted the picture that he was the ring leader. I have a new love for Zeke after watching this interview. We missed out on who he was and what he meant in the Chi cause we loved Mike.

[@lukata77]

@@gtspeed600hp 💯

[@lukata77]

@@WeKnowTheDifference Man we were butthurt when Jordan and The Bulls learned how to beat us with pure athleticism and better defense, I hate that The Bad Boys walked out on y'all guys but at the end of the day Chicago earned and fought their way to the top. And we loved Zeke because that true Chicago toughness was what we respected here in the D! 💯

[@supanuh]

What Isaiah Thomas imparted in honesty, wisdom and generosity in this interview blows "The Last Dance" out of the water every time. This was amazing. I enjoyed it very much.

[@lamarkgray8459]

I am From Detroit, and as a pistons fan you can't get better than Zeke. When he tells stories about playing ball and his life. I am like a Big ole kid again. Thanks to Isiah Lord Thomas the 3rd for great memories! Thanks for the Great interview pivot!

[@T..1147]

What up doe

[@natedogg1299]

All facts! Everyone from the D feels this way about Zeke!…….he was our MJ! 💯✌🏽

[@shellshockdc]

This was gold....From the questions, to letting Isaiah tell his story without interrupting, was truly priceless!

[@tennaj1367]

Respect! 👍 BTW.. *Isiah Thomas is the best pound for pound players ever!

[@deliliankramo7520]

One of the reasons they left Brandon Marshall too.. Dude interrupts people ALL THE TUME!

[@redan12]

This is why the pivot is good they not afraid to ask controversial questions

[@toreydecuir8506]

Zeke not being able to play on the Dream Team might just be more about who he was as far as standing up for his people than the feud with MJ. This was a great interview with a lot of insight on Zeke and how he was raised.

[@koryburdet1317]

Facts! He was a leader and the White media hated this guy

[@alecsanderhamilton9224]

He's always been like this. He's always wore his heart on his sleeve too. He hasn't changed in his entire public career. And he's respectable. Not perfect. No one can ever be. Not even if you hide.

[@phade2blaq]

It was because then NBA commissioner David Stern did not like Isiah because he stood up to that stereotype that NBA players were thugs and hoodlums and Stern didn't like that but Isiah's game was so on point, Stern couldn't silence him.

[@alecsanderhamilton9224]

@@phade2blaq he did not stand up to the stereotype of thugs. The Pistons carried themselves like a church group. Only on the court they made the stars sweat and miss alot of shots which made the game uglier and less shiny. The Pistons were hard defense. Not thugging. They were the 85 Bears but Dan Marino wasn't scoring 38 points on em. The Pistons were putting the Celtics, Lakers and Bulls to sleep. And they were ruining more Celtics Lakers NBA Finals and Bulls Lakers NBA Finals.

[@phade2blaq]

@@alecsanderhamilton9224 I didn't say they were thugs. The NBA in the mid 1970s was becoming too Black in the eyes of some and the league began cracking down. They hated the Pistons for their rough play but they had play rough in the NBA long before the Pistons started doing it but they disliked the Pistons because of Jordan so they changed the rules to favor Jordan much the way they have changed the rules today to feature 3pt shooting.

[@Thedarknight73]

It's crazy... Channing ,Fred, and RC ... literally didn't say too many words in that interview they were almost Starstruck a little and so attentive to what it had to say because you know Channing he'll go off the rails... that was one of the best interviews I've seen in a long time

[@soniagodlieb1896]

AMEN🙏🏽

[@kylebyrne8076]

No surprise there brother this man is one of the goat point guards and one of the greatest basketball players of all time

[@ericsalazar6712]

ISIAH THOMAS, I was not a fan of the Pistons, but I've always been a fan of you as a Person. Thank You🙏🏼👑

[@authorcurtisjordan3497]

I’m glad I heard Isiah Thomas finally tell his own story. He is right, what we’ve heard has been from the same 2-3 people over 30 years. He is a good guy!

[@phade2blaq]

Yep and those people were Pippen and Jordan and I remember when Isiah's sister and Jordan's brother were friends back then so why Jordan now hates Isiah is puzzling to me and Isiah said his nephew lived with Jordan so something somewhere ain't adding up. How did it go from that to Jordan hating him all of a sudden.

[@Jman511x]

@@phade2blaq I would like to know that as well. Also Jordan seemed to legit be hurt that Thomas and the Pistons didn’t shake their hands after the Bulls finally beat them. Even though Jordan talked bad about them before the game I think he really looked up to Isiah. Maybe Jordan simply hated him because he couldn’t get past him. Jordan is an obsessive competitor after all.

[@jermainejackson2870]

You guys are flicking fools, you guys act like you never saw the games!!!! Did he or did he not walk out of that game!!!

[@AllMoneyIn]

This was an eye opening interview. Gained a lot of respect for Zeke. Really glad The Pivot gave him the platform to share his story!

[@ceazemccallsr.6679]

See this is the story that people of Detroit always knew the pistons were us as the people

[@TherealAlmightyAG]

@@ceazemccallsr.6679 I know that right. I went to his basketball camp in 91 at Orchard Lake St Mary’s. He didn’t miss a shot for a whole week. And he told me I was good. Man I cried when he said it.

[@ijustyap]

@@TherealAlmightyAG man thats dope

[@Dadrofsports]

Listening to Zeke talk about always wanting to make someone's day when he meets them. He's telling the truth. Back in 91 or 92.....Isiah truck was broke down on the West side of Detroit. A Total Gas station on Grand River and the Southfield Fwy(My Detroiters know where that is) I met him as a 8th grader right before 8th grade tryouts. He talked to me for 20 minutes waiting on a tow truck...it was an awesome experience. 35+ years later, I still remember that day. Zeke has always been my idol.

[@stacyg6024]

Did he make those people’s day in NY when he was involved in sexually harassing Anucha Rown? FOH. They purposely didn’t ask him anything about that.

[@92fishgut]

As a Michael Jordan fan and someone that wasn’t to fond of Isiah Thomas at all… I gained a lot of respect for him after watching this. Who knew? Which is the reason why he needs a documentary

[@KLartrandM]

I can speak of this mans kindness 1st hand. I had the privilege to attend Magic Johnsons basketball camp at the MSU campus as a kid in the 80s. I had just came to the side line sitting on the floor after being subbed out. Magic an Isiah are walking around the court observing the kids, laughing and talking. Then, next thing i know, they stopped by me. They were literally standing next to me leaning up against the wall watching our techniques. Im trying my best not to look up at them. It was really unnerving. Anyway i get subbed back in. I was really struggling not because they were watching, i just wasn't that good yet. I was one of the smallest kids on the court so i was intimated. Later on during some of the drills Isiah remembered me struggling an called me to the court to show me an others how to play against larger players as a guard. Mind you this is Magics camp, but at the time they were still really close. Isiah was very active in helping out. That really changed my life. Because it gave me soo much confidence that i didn't have. I went back home that summer a beast on the court . I will always love Isiah as my all time favorite player hands down. His fearlessness, courage, charisma and confidence was like no other.

[@elijahbruno2814]

I love reading stories like these it really shows how truly dedicated and hands on these legend were and still are. Did you ever go any further with basketball or did you find a career?

[@lucyd3408]

Amazing interview...Isiah preached to never forget where you come from....God bless Isiah and his mother. One of the best interviews ...

[@ec2233]

Every time I think ya'll can't raise the bar any higher: Channing says "hold my draws". This was an AMAZING interview, and it's made me love Zeke more than before. Props to the pivot. 👏🏿 👏🏿 👏🏿

[@barak-rocky-giles2081]

"Hold my draws" 🤣🤣🤣 That is so true.

[@esantana6722]

@@barak-rocky-giles2081 straight up

[@iamthejpshow]

Man I love how The Pivot does it's homework and research before the guest come on. If the Pivot don't win an Emmy for these interviews I'm going to be highly upset. This is not just a sports show this is an Human Being Show. Love Love Love The Pivot.

[@thay6077]

👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@lilboosie5]

Yes indeed. A safe space for all

[@damonwashington7205]

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that if you ask any native Detroiter how they feel about Zeke, nobody is gonna have anything bad to say. Isiah Lord Thomas is easily one of the most beloved figures in my City. Zeke came to the D when we needed him the most. In the early 80s unfortunately we were mostly in the news for crime related issues. We, the city, was just trying to find something to be positive about. And Mary Thomas blessed us with her baby boy. Zeke gave us hope. He was everything that Detroit was about. Everything we needed. Zeke was/is a humble cat and even tho he was a celebrity, he was never unapproachable. He was/is always obliging and friendly with anyone. You could catch Zeke at a local barbecue spot or getting a haircut in the hood by himself. He was/is just a solid cat. And most importantly, Zeke was a killer on the floor. If he broke his right hand, he'd give you 30 with the left. Played with every type of injury. Bloodied and bruised he went to war every night. That's why we love Zeke. He was from Chicago but he had the heart and grit of someone from the D. If he never gave us any championship, we'd still feel the same way about him. But Zeke delivered. And we are eternally grateful for Detroit's Adopted Son. God Bless Mary Thomas for sending us her baby boy. Bad Boys For Life!!✊🏽✊🏽✊🏽💯💯💯

[@blacknmildjones6241]

Zeke looks harmless, mild mannered, soft spoken but dude is a stone cold killer at heart on the court. Respect 💯💯

[@RemoWilliams1227]

Truly, absolute killer mentality like Mike and Kobe, Isaiah wanted to step on your kneck and rip your heart out.

[@samueljett4766]

What's crazy was His Brother was Better

[@ocampbell1954]

Marvin Harrison. Don't let that nice guy shyt fool you.

[@rasulsamad5860]

@@samueljett4766 really?

[@stacyg6024]

Was he harmless when he was accused of sexual harassment by Anucha Brown when he worked for the Knicks?

[@treyspaulding46]

That Episode was AWARD WORTHY! The Pivot sets the Bar for what a good SUCCESSFUL Podcast should be. Good job Rc, Fred, and Channing. Isiah was and is Phenomenal! Shout out to the pivot crew and everyone who makes this thing go. Merry Christmas ⛄🎄 &Happy Holidays ALL.

[@PowerHouseMarriage]

I’m so glad Brandon Marshall not on this he would have talked the whole time

[@basedgod1281]

@@PowerHouseMarriage 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mitchellbrock3463]

Growing up in Detroit in the 80s during the Bad Boys era, this is hands-down my favorite episode of The Pivot. Great job fellas!

[@smartwork8477]

Yeah, I love this podcast. Yeah that was cold. Question, I'm starting a new channel. Are you interested in winning prizes in exchange for listening to one song?

[@folabomiamoo]

This is hands down the best episode so far. Isiah Thomas is such an amazing storyteller!

[@Realwillvance]

I rank this as one of the best interviews I’ve seen in my life. The emotion, facts, revelations, kept me on the edge of my seat. I hope they do a part two.

[@LoyalOpposition]

I was just gonna say that. Best interview

[@OrlandusThomasGCCP]

He's always been one of my favorite players; I'm loving him even more at this stage of his career, and having a deeper respect for him.

[@TraciGirl313]

I was born and raised in Detroit! Born in ‘80. This did my heart a lot of good and brought back a lot of memories of the Bad Boys. My dad was a die hard Bad Boys fan. I wish he could’ve watched this. Great interview, guys.

[@DialToneTP]

I was born and raised in Chicago, and we hated the bad boys, but I never heard Isaiah Thomas story until now. Gives me a different insight of how good the Pistons was.

[@johnnyrandolph01]

I was born in 1979 and Detroit. 89 and 90 bad boys team are still my favorite sports teams of all time.

[@koj6629]

Same here. This interview was something else for me. I grew up in Michigan and idealized idealized Isaiah so much. I thought I was him when I was a kid. Not just basketball but the way he carried himself.

[@thesamulous]

I am a 80s baby from Detroit. The Pistons ended both the Celtic and Laker dynasties and was the last team to beat the Bulls eventual dynasty. Bad Boys are the greatest team in the history of Detroit and Isiah is one of the greatest team leaders in NBA history.

[@MylesWMiller]

I grew up in the D during the 80s also and without a shadow of a doubt, you are correct!!!

[@ericharris7577]

Yes sir, bad Boys for life

[@stevemays1478]

Yes Indeed!!!!

[@jimmiestuckeyiii]

All facts!

[@TheGalacticTalk]

Isiah Thomas is a true legend. Thanks to the Pivot for allowing the Legend to share his truth!

[@eomyenom1]

It was the era of Isaiah Thomas that made the league must see tv in the 80s-90s. He was so tough, gritty and talented that played with heart. I wish we had 1 player of his ilk in the league today.

[@Forthepeoplepodcast305]

Giannis is the closest

[@eomyenom1]

Isaiah would reach out and put hands on you regardless of size. There’s nobody in the league today with his heart.

[@nykat]

Around 35:00 when it come to the Jordan talk Isiah out here speaking facts, 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 I’ve never appreciated the way jordan and the league has tried to disrespect his legacy, I’m glad he got a platform to tell his side of the story.

[@demetrouslee2067]

The most underrated none spoken of in the best PG ever Convo ever ...man he beat Larry Bird Magic n MJ...TUFF!!! RESPECT TO ISIAH THOMAS this interview is beyond DOPE!!!

[@SuaSponte75]

MJ beat them too and then some more.

[@Day-ZDuke]

Isiah Thomas is a super nice guy, down to earth. I used to play hockey with his son growing up, back in the 90’s. Talked with him many times Still have his autograph framed to this day!!

[@LoyalOpposition]

Something the average person doesn't know that you know? Nothing bad - Isiah was my first hero. I'm from Michigan.

[@butterflyygyrlsworld5106]

So true…very nice man.

[@seanldean4213]

Played hockey with his son???...🧐...bet you did...😂🤣😂

[@chrisgrissom3610]

Isiah is a Detroit Legend. I was a kid during the bad boy era, and all those things he's sayin is all accurate. You can tell there's a level of hurt in his heart and disrespect in his soul. He is and will always be beloved in the city of Detroit

[@stefanharris659]

I agree. Not from Detroit I'm from Seattle and I love him as well.

[@cyrushb2916]

I'm an even bigger Isaiah Thomas fan than I was before. I saw him once in an airport and dude was so cool and humble when I realized who he was that he won over a lifetime Celtics fan who was at the parades in the 80's

[@vincentsmith5130]

Best podcast I've ever watched. I love all three guys on the Pivot. Isiah Thomas I can't put into words your influence on and off the court. Isiah is one of if not the greatest basketball player ever.

[@Antlp711]

Definitely one of the best Pivots. I really didn’t know about His past growing up. His mom being a activist and the fight with his brother and Bobby knight. Dope interview, honest and vulnerable.

[@Bighjr88]

Hey when I heard that story his brother & Bobby knight I died laughing.

[@T..1147]

Y'all did see the Isiah Thomas story his brother was a baller as well Leon played his brother In the movie

[@perfect2107]

I love his demeanor and candor. So eloquent, refined, and just emits greatness. Jordan and him are not an day.

[@getblackah]

This has by far become my favorite podcast. This is one where I’m actually upset this didn’t run longer. I wouldn’t mind a Pivot “Isaiah Thomas Special” THIS INTERVIEW WAS AMAZING

[@dnell5246]

I wish it was longer as well.. but great interview!!!

[@luvthosewholuvu8097]

I agree, bring Mr. Thomas back for a 3 hour special. I'm sure he has more indepth stories we don't know and would like to know

[@ckaiborbor]

We are in a golden era for Black men to be able to come together and share their stories to uplift us all. Pray all these brothers in these spaces keep it positive & reach back and uplift.

[@bgirmay]

What an interview! I came to San Diego in 1986 and start watching basketball, then I see this short feisty guy with a smile that I became an instant fan. I watched most of his games and followed his career after retirement. It is unfortunate and unfair that he gets a bad rap. You guys did an indelible job of interviewing. I hope to see a well deserved documentary about him. BTW: he is a mentor of Jaylen Brown, one of the best player and bright minds in the NBA-where they forged a friendship when Isiah was getting his masters and Jaylen’s fresh man year at UC Berkeley.

[@mariohenley716]

Isiah's heart, passion and will to win made him my favorite player of all time. I could listen to him tell stories all day.

[@truthiscensored]

A real point Guard that set up his team mate for success, get 9-10 assists score 20+ without ball hogging and got real handles that don't carry, travel... Real Basketball player

[@MrAitraining]

Yeah I wish there was more passing compilation vids of Isiah on youtube. That was my fav part of his game.

[@shanetaylor3372]

I've seen him slide half the court still dribbling 😂

[@dondidi2726]

This interview made me realize why these dudes left Im Athlete! I think they just wanted to shine more light on deeper cultural topics, rather than the commercial approach of Im Athlete! And Isiah, he is that wise&fun Uncle that every youngin in the fam loves! Great interview!

[@mariesettles4734]

You guys hit a home run with this interview. What's up Zeke? We love and miss you in Detroit.Thank you for our championships Bad Boys 4 Life.👏🏾👏🏾🏀🏀🏆🏆

[@FromTheHipp]

I worked at nba tv for 3 years. when i met Isiah it was crazy because i grew up a bull fan/jordan fan. then(2015) he told me kyrie was his fav pg in the league. we had an incredible conversation and he was insanely cool whenever i talked to him. maybe have been diff as a player but as a man he's a super cool guy. i fw him.

[@Crusher103]

This was one hell of a sit down. Here is the thing about Isiah, I got my stories about him from MJ, Magic, Bird etc. But then I watched NBA open court. To hear Chris Webber, Steve Smith, and even Shaq talk about him. You realize quickly there was a lot more to him. Steve Smith had a story of Isiah teaching him how to improve his handle that is just like wow. Not as an NBA player, as a high school kid, C-Webb had a similar story. Reggie Miller and Shaq still call him coach. Grant Hill talking about how Zeke called him and helped him in Detroit there is a lot that needs to be unpacked about Isiah. And the thing is I do not think he is alone, it was not just him there are others out there as well.

[@flamarjr2000]

Almost makes me want to cry because I love Isiah so much for what he did for Detroit ( on and off the court ). God bless his mom!

[@emmanuelbautista6062]

Loved this interview. Just felt his heart all episode. Humble guy. Hell of a player and an even better human being.

[@Avinadav12]

Straight Facts about what the league did for MJ. Glad Isaiah brought this out.

[@tonyt3197]

Honestly this wasn’t even an interview to me. This is more like listening to your dad/uncle talk about interesting times in their younger days. They actually learn more about the person that way than just asking them structured questions and getting structured answers. Just a pure organic conversation. Big shoutout to The Pivot and the Legend Mr Isiah Thomas for the dope convo 🙏🏽

[@JohnWick-gl6mw]

Gospel !

[@teedubb71]

This honestly might be, and I’ve said this numerous times before, the best interview y’all have ever done! Excellent work gentlemen

[@TheKnuckles65]

Wow! The words from Isiah's own mouth. This interview has increased my respect for Isiah Thomas. Great interview sirs. Thank you for allowing him to share so much of his history with us. I am now a subscriber of your podcast. Great job Pivot!

[@Jarnarsab]

Isiah seems so genuine and he has this realism about him that I really appreciate.

[@ДимитърБожилов-ж5ф]

he seems geniune, but if you check some of the things he said were wrong.

[@KingTommy21]

@@ДимитърБожилов-ж5ф what things? please elaborate

[@cwvos]

@@ДимитърБожилов-ж5ф The other Bro. Asked you to elab on what he was wrong about, but also for me, tell me what he was wrong about and *More Importantly* where did you get your credible info from to prove he was wrong 🤔❓️❓️❓️

[@mikehop28]

Isiah Thomas is officially my favorite player from his era! Much respect just from this interview.

[@nicholasminnett2692]

The 30 for 30 on the Bad boys definitely opened my eyes on who he really was and this was just the cherry on top. The hate and disrespect he receives is so unnecessary. IMO he’s the second best PG behind magic

[@michaelallen8112]

@@nicholasminnett2692 It happened after the Larry Bird comment when Dennis Rodman said if he was so-called black player he be another player. Isiah cosign got taken to task especially at that time

[@JCMthebrand]

@@michaelallen8112 man that ain’t what drives it today. It’s people playing favorites with MJ. He gets hate from black folks too….that ain’t the Larry comment for sure

[@michaelallen8112]

@@JCMthebrand yes it does along with what u said to certain degree

[@makesmartTROYces]

It's amazing how he can keep a smile on his face for this whole interview, it's amazing and I love it. Very positive🔥🔥🙏🏿👏🏿

[@Carolinakid1984]

Love this interview, Zeke was a monster and coming from a true MJ fan I respect Zeke's perspective and truly those two need to do a face to face and talk it out

[@johnwalkeristhatdude3018]

I they don’t not after the lies this man told

[@LeathafaceTV]

I honestly feel like they do need to have sit down national televised interview. With no holds barred. Just put everything in the air and talk things out. They’ll be huge seeing 2 brothers coming together and squashing a age long beef. They need to do while they are still here.

[@JJMk3]

Naahh some people you can forgive them but you have to let them go their way. Zeke looks like he is an @SSH0L3 in real life but wtf its ME🙈😂🤷‍♂️

[@drestathagangsta8880]

@@JJMk3 I've met Jordan numerous times and no one is a bigger asshole than MJ. I know the rest of the world still idolizes him but I'm good.

[@ricojustrealtampaflorida1986]

@@johnwalkeristhatdude3018 you're to emotionally invested with strangers little brother! What lie did he tell on you, or anyone you personally know?

[@averycardoso9713]

I’ve always said isiah is criminally underrated. Imo he’s the third best pg of all time, his toughness skill and leadership were undeniable. He took down Jordan, Magic and Bird all in one era. Put some respect on his name and all while being disrespected isiah always put a smile on his face and dealt with his isssues with such class. True legend of the game !!!

[@sideshowbobsaget8876]

Magic, Curry, Oscar. Never beat Magic in the Finals

[@redrocker1055]

More truth in this conversation than most grown-ass 80's and 90's kids can ever hope to unpack.

[@cwill5829]

Isaiah is one of the best ppl to do interviews with. He has so much unadulterated truth and wisdom, it's always good to hear him.

[@anthonyjackson883]

This interview changed my whole mindset on Isiah and Jordan

[@hotbyoungturk]

IT needs more praise and recognition. And yes, please give this man his own movie based on his life. His story is powerful. And the fact that he recognizes how important it is to treat people with kindness.. Its a beautiful thing.

[@medrickbussie2489]

I love Isaiah bro. His brother Larry Thomas coached me in a church league and I soaked up so much game from him. The stories he would tell was inspirational. As a Chicago west side native Isaiah is the realest and I hope to meet him

[@AkeemDenim]

Man this was outstanding. Much love to the pivot crew for blessing us with awesome guests and conversations. Much love and respect to Zeke, undoubtedly a legend and one of the best to ever do it.

[@gdm415]

Zeke always gives great real interviews!!! They are the only team that beat the great celtic, laker and bulls teams. That means alot

[@datbecutty]

Being able to watch basketball during his era, I remember these stories. Everything He said and all the points he made, were all facts! But his perspective on MIchael Jordan is not only interesting but eye opening. This was one of the best interviews with Isiah Thomas I've ever seen! The Pivot, to me, is the best sports podcast in the game! And Isiah Thomas does not get talked about enough for his skill level, scoring ability and toughness! He was AI before AI but with 2 Chips!!! Top 3 best point guards ever!!! Great Job Fellas!!

[@ov9879]

This is absolutely one of the best interviews ever by Isaiah Thomas. He gives a lot of context about the era, all of the trash talk about him and the Detroit Pistons. The NBA marketing machine portrays Michael Jordan as such a good guy but Isaiah clears that up very quickly. He should do his own documentary.

[@kllipsninja1138]

Another excellent interview by the pivot crew. I appreciate the way the crew ask questions and patiently wait for the guest to answer, not interrupting nor trying to upstage the story based on what they may or may not know. Every guest has been able to come and talk freely and tell their stories in their own words. Great job and keep up the great work🤛🏾✌🏾

[@rjcanhelpu]

I grew up in Detroit and a huge fan and still hadn’t heard some of these truths until watching this. Isiah and The Bad Boys are still the best

[@geronimocat]

Whole lotta listening and letting talk. Respect to all involved. Great watch!

[@izeke1310]

I grew up watching this man. I'm from Detroit, seeing Zeke as a kid dribbling inspired me to ball. He is my favorite player of all time. I remember the commercials with him and his mom for Edison. She would say "Oh Isiah" My principal in my elementary school said it to me all the time...

[@RicardoDinero99]

This was an impressive interview... With an equally intriguing story...I'm blown away with Isiah Thomas's biography... We need his documentary!!

[@HaynRyan]

IT spoke his truth. One of the best interviews of the year

[@thurmondcaldwell5482]

I'm googling everything he mentioned videos articles and so far HE IS NOT LYING

[@72dolphinsto22dolphins]

Every basketball fan from the 80s and 90s should watch this, so powerful and insightful.

[@robertmason8416]

Man..... this is one of the best sports interviews I've ever seen! I grew up watching the NBA in the 80's onto now and loved the MJ emergence and admired Isaiah Thomas and his scrappy Pistons. But now even more I love and respect this man, along with respecting Coach Knight a little more. Great work guys!

[@TonyP635]

A great interview, I'm glad they let Zeke talk without interrupting him. A lot of us from Detroit know about all the things he did, he meant a lot to the city. Two things I wanted to say that I wish he would have touched on. I remember the 87 series against the Celtics, he probably wont mention it, but I will. The refs was killing Detroit during that series, we should have won that one as well as 88 against the Lakers. The league didn't like Detroit at the time, and didn't like our style of basketball. The second is, I wish he would have touched on the so called freeze out All Star game. Again, main stream media blasting Zeke on some fake accusations. When Zeke actually pass the ball to Jordan at least 8 or 9 times in that game. I believe Jordan missed half of the shots after getting the ball from Zeke.

[@MrAitraining]

Isiah is always awesome on shows. Miss him on TNT being involved in those open court segments. He was always good. Many are on youtube. Great tale teller.

[@jondenson1580]

Thank You Pivot for having Our Captain Zeke on your Podcast. Being from Detroit & actually seeing Zeke as a kid being so active in Detroit was Amazing. I’m so glad He got a chance to explain why He & The Detroit Pistons were so Hated. This was the Best Interview. Bad Boys 4Life

[@cjabbott9688]

Please have a part 2 to this interview!!!! Outstanding interview with the legend Zek! 💯

[@wasntme3651]

I was fortunate enough to get to sit on the court during a Detroit game when I was in high school. Thomas was my favorite player at the time and it was surreal being a few feet from him and the team. We were sitting in front of the chairs on the literal floor.

[@shakinahs]

Legendary Isaiah Thomas. 😯 ❤ This interview is epic, like no other. Every story he told I felt a deep connection like we were back in old times or something. This generation truly needs to take in stories like this and learn. Respect to I.T. for what he stands for. 👏🏾💯

[@T..1147]

Yes especially when he mentioned Coleman A Young almost made me cry because that was a great time in our city

[@esawwhite9377]

Growing up, Isiah Thomas was, and still is my all-time favorite player. He was the smallest great nba champion to lead a team from being basement dwellers to two championships. And I loved that he beat some of the all-time greats. Him not being on the original dream team makes me sick to this day. If I could ever meet a famous athlete, it would be him! 👍🏿

[@pjsmokke]

We lived around the corner from Isiah when he first moved to Detroit when he got drafted and when we found out he lived there a couple of my younger brothers knocked on his door and asked the people there for Isiah to come out and play like he was a kid like us, he came out and played basketball on his rim for a little while, I missed out that day, bit I saw him a the store a couple times, real cool dude

[@abdul-jaleelmustafaa3162]

It was one of the top 10 interviews. I loved the conversation and the love from great brothers.