Joining the fierce debates every obsessive fan loves to have, acclaimed sports journalist Marcus Thompson II presents a series of bold cases for who he thinks are the unique players who changed basketball forever.

Michael Jordan. Dirk Nowitzki. Candace Parker. Steph Curry. These players from the modern era are among a handful of basketball's elite who have earned the rare title of Game Changer. Their contributions go beyond statistics and accolades, beyond wins and records. What they and others like them have achieved is nothing short of revolutionary when it comes to the trajectory of the game. In this utterly unique basketball history, Marcus Thompson II highlights a rare selection of players from the NBA and WNBA, building a thoroughly convincing case for each athlete that points to their irrefutable and lasting impact.

Fast-paced with plenty of inarguable stats and well-reasoned takes sure to create endless debate among fans, Game Changers is a glowing tribute celebrating the players we love to crown as GOATS.

Methodology

Definitions and Hoop Vernacular

The Modern Era:Magic and Bird

How High?:Michael Jordan

From the Motherland:Hakeem Olajuwon

Miniature Mountain:Charles Barkley

Youth Brigade:Kevin Garnett

Anomalies:Cheryl Miller, Shaquille O’Neal, Tim Duncan

Heart Over Height:Allen Iverson

Shooting Big:Dirk Nowitzki

Point-Forward:LeBron James

Mamba Mentality:Kobe Bryant

Anomalies:Kyrie Irving, Maya Moore, Draymond Green

Seven-Foot Guard:Kevin Durant

All Five:Candace Parker

Pace and Space:Stephen Curry

Evolution:Victor Wembanyama

Anomalies:Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokić, Caitlin Clark

Photo Credits

Index