NBA History Story Tellers on CLNS

In the world of basketball, defense is just as important as offense. And when it comes to locking down the opposing team's top scorers, few players in NBA history can match the skills of 5x champion as a key member of the Showtime Lakers and 1987 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Michael Cooper. In this video, Coop takes us on a deep dive into his top five defensive assignments. From guarding the likes of Larry Bird and Isiah Thomas, to shutting down George Gervin and Alex English, Cooper proved time and time again that he was one of the best defenders to ever step onto the court. But what made Cooper so special? It wasn't just his quick hands or his ability to read the offense. It was his commitment to studying his opponents and understanding their tendencies. Cooper knew that defense was about more than just stopping a player from scoring - it was about disrupting their rhythm, throwing them off their game, and forcing them to make mistakes. Throughout this video, he breaks down each of defensive assignment and provides insights into his techniques, strategies, and mindset. We'll see how he used his length and agility to frustrate top scorers in the 1980’s NBA. So if you're ready to go inside the mind of an NBA defensive legend, join in and explore Michael Cooper's top five defensive assignments in NBA history. You won't be disappointed! Showtime with Coop is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lakers legend Michael Cooper breaks down the 5 wildest, funniest, and most legendary stories about playing with Magic Johnson during the Showtime era. You think you know the Showtime Lakers? Think again. 5x NBA Champion Michael Cooper sits down to reveal the untold truth about his running mate, Earvin "Magic" Johnson. From the fast breaks that changed the NBA forever to the behind-the-scenes moments in the locker room that no one saw, Coop ranks his top 5 favorite memories of the greatest point guard of all time. If you miss the golden era of basketball, this video is a must-watch. 🏀 In This Video: • The Coop-a-Loop connection explained. • Magic's intense competitiveness at practice. • Funny locker room stories involving Pat Riley. • The specific plays that defined their dynasty. 👇 Join the Conversation: Which Magic Johnson moment is your favorite? Did Coop leave anything out? Let me know in the comments! 🔥 Support the Channel: • Subscribe for more Lakers history: [Link to Subscribe] • Follow Michael Cooper on Instagram: @ShowtimeCooper21 • Listen to the Showtime Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0q58PdBd256PEDwENzQAS0?si=45KzVrHDRz-J5G_MpAGzJg  #MagicJohnson #Lakers #ShowtimeLakers #MichaelCooper #NBAHistory #Basketball #Lakeshow #NBA75 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Bob Ryan and Gary Tanguay discuss who is the best American player in the NBA right now and break down the differences between European and American styles of basketball. Bob also explains why Europeans have had so much success in the NBA in recent years. The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Showtime with Coop, Lakers legend Michael Cooper tells us his favorite stories about one of the best players he ever played with, Magic Johnson. Coop tells tales from on and off the court, painting a picture of what made Magic Johnson special, including a moving story about Magic's diagnosis with HIV. Showtime with Coop is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Bob Ryan ranks Larry Bird’s top five games for the Celtics, including his finals heroics against the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets. The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded February 12, 2018. Join us as we dive into the legacy of Paul Pierce, the greatest scorer in Boston Celtics history, as discussed by Robert Parish. In this video, we explore Pierce's remarkable contributions to the team, highlighting his leadership, sportsmanship, and the camaraderie he fostered with fellow legends like Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Discover why retiring Pierce's jersey is not just a tribute to his exceptional skills but also a celebration of his character and dedication to the Celtics' success. We’ll compare his impact to other Celtics greats like Larry Bird and John Havlicek, emphasizing why Pierce deserves this honor. Tune in to appreciate the profound influence he had on the franchise and the lasting legacy he leaves behind! Robert Parish Names Paul Pierce as Celtics' Greatest Scorer Ever Celebrating Paul Pierce: Celtics' All-Time Leading Scorer and Leader Paul Pierce's Legacy: A Tribute to the Celtics' Greatest Scorer Why Paul Pierce Deserves His Jersey Retirement with the Celtics The Impact of Paul Pierce: Celtics' Icon and Team Leader Explained 🏀 Paul Pierce's Legacy: Celebrated for his leadership and dedication, Pierce significantly impacted the Celtics during challenging times. 🎖️ Jersey Retirement Honor: Retiring Pierce's jersey symbolizes his exceptional career and contributions to the Celtics' legacy. 🤝 Team Camaraderie: Pierce's respect for teammates like Garnett and Allen highlights the importance of camaraderie in their success. 0:10 - Celebrating Paul Pierce's contributions 0:34 - Paul's leadership and dedication discussed 1:53 - Importance of retiring Paul's jersey 2:52 - Comparing Paul to Larry Bird offensively #bostonceltics #robertparish #paulpierce #larrybird #nbadebate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry Bird vs Paul Pierce — who was the better scorer? Recorded at TD Garden during Paul Pierce’s jersey retirement week, our panel debates scoring, offense, and clutch moments between two Celtics legends. This NBA history debate breaks down Larry Bird vs Paul Pierce as scorers, offensive players, and closers — comparing eras, shot profiles, playoff moments, and impact on winning. With Celtics legends and longtime NBA voices on the panel, this conversation goes beyond stats to basketball IQ, toughness, and legacy. If you’re an NBA fan, Celtics fan, or love basketball history debates, this is one of the most passionate arguments you’ll hear. Topics covered: Larry Bird scoring ability Paul Pierce isolation scoring Clutch playoff moments Celtics legends comparison NBA scoring across eras 1980s NBA vs 2000s NBA Celtics history debates TD Garden jersey retirement week NBA legacy discussions Subscribe to NBA History on CLNS for debates, interviews, and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. #LarryBird#PaulPierce#Celtics#NBAHistory#NBADebate 👇 Join the debate in the comments: Who was the better scorer — Larry Bird or Paul Pierce? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Bob Ryan and Gary Tanguay recap the latest NBA action. They discuss the Thunder's incredible run to start the season, why this Celtics team is a tough team to coach, and why C's fans should be happy with this season. They also give thoughts on the NBA Cup and whether it's been a success for the league. ⏰EPISODE TIMELINE⏰ 00:00 Intro 00:58 Bob on the Thunder’s amazing start to the season 06:34 Gary’s Happy Hairston/Wilt Chamberlain story 08:45 Remembering the ’60s Lakers 11:05 PrizePicks 12:45 Monarch 14:17 Subscribe to Celtics All Access! 14:38 Why the Celtics are a tough team to coach 19:45 Why Celtics fans should be satisfied with this season 21:05 Marcus Smart’s impressive outing vs San Antonio 22:30 Has the NBA Cup been a success? 24:50 Thanks for watching! The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On March 15, 1992, Larry Bird delivered the final great masterpiece of his career — a 49-point, 14-rebound, 12-assist performance against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Boston Garden. This mini-documentary breaks down the full story behind that afternoon; the state of the Celtics in 1992, the powerhouse Blazers team they faced, Bird’s injuries and limitations, and the way he took control of the game with his IQ, footwork, and toughness. We revisit Bird’s history of playing some of his best basketball against Portland, the famous left-handed game, and the impossible corner game-winner from years earlier. We also highlight one of the wildest moments of the night: Boston fans leaving the Garden early when the Celtics trailed — only to sprint back after Bird tied the game with an off-balance three to force overtime. This is the story of Larry Bird’s last great game, told through game footage, historical context, and original narration. ⸻ ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Opening 00:16 – Setting the stage (Celtics & Blazers in 1992) 01:15 – Bird feeling out the game 02:30 – Portland pressure, Bird’s adjustments 03:40 – Bird’s history vs. the Blazers 04:45 – Third-quarter takeover 05:45 – Boston fans leave… then rush back 06:40 – Overtime 07:30 – Final numbers 07:55 – Closing reflection ⸻ 📚 About the Game • Date: March 15, 1992 • Matchup: Boston Celtics vs. Portland Trail Blazers • Final Score: Celtics 152 – Blazers 148 (Double OT) • Larry Bird: 49 points, 14 rebounds, 12 assists ⸻ 📢 About the Channel CLNS Media • NBA History Channel Long-form NBA storytelling, mini-documentaries, and deep-dive breakdowns of the greatest games ever played. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Showtime With Coop, Michael Cooper and Ari Temkin welcome NBA Legend and creator of the Ones Basketball League, Tracy McGrady, and the winner of the League, John Jordan. Coop, Ari, Tracy, and John discuss Tracy's role models growing up, The Ones Basketball League, Tracy going from high school directly to the pros, John winning the OBL, and more. Showtime with Coop is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Bob Ryan, Jeff Goodman, and Gary Tanguay discuss the Celtics’ surge to 3rd place in the Eastern Conference. They debate whether Jayson Tatum should return this season and the ceiling of this Celtics team. The guys also talk college hoops, including Michigan’s incredible start and AJ Dybantsa’s start to life at BYU. The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by:  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bob Ryan and Gary Tanguay react to Robert Parish's recent viral tweet. Parish named his top five teammates and did not include Larry Bird or Kevin McHale. Bob explains why he thinks that is the case and breaks down the friction between these former Celtic teammates. The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by  💰 Prize Picks - ⁠https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠ 📲Sign up at ⁠http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠ & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Bob Ryan and Gary Tanguay reveal what they are most thankful for this season. Bob shouts out the late Boris Stankovic who changed the NBA forever by pushing the league to bring in international talent. The guys also give thanks to the Detroit Pistons and LeBron James’ attitude. 00:0 - Thanksgiving edition 1:06 - Boris Stankovich's impact 2:10 - Best American player? 6:39 - NHL fighting 7:10 - International All-Star game 14:49 - Thankful for Pistons 15:49 - Thankful for LeBron 19:03 - Back to basketball The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by  💰 Prize Picks - https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS 📲Sign up at http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Bob Ryan takes time to look back on the great Celtics career of Paul Silas who played for the Celtics from 1972 to 1976 and helped the Celtics win 2 championships. The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by  💰 Prize Picks - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📲Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠⁠⁠⁠ & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Cooper welcomes Jake Uitti, who helped write Coop's book! The two discuss stories and writing COOP: The Making of a Showtime Lakers Legend! Showtime with Coop is Powered by  💰 Prize Picks - ⁠https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠ 📲Sign up at ⁠http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠ & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Nick Gelso & Jimmy Toscano as we dive into the complex situation surrounding Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies' star player, and why he has become a polarizing figure in the NBA. During the Garden Report Celtics Post Game Show on Wednesday, we explore the urgent concerns about Morant's behavior and its potential impact on his future with the Memphis Grizzlies. Ja Morant’s controversies have turned him into the go-to talking point for anyone who wants to criticize the NBA. From off-court incidents to league suspensions, Morant has become the centerpiece in a broader debate about player behavior, league culture, and whether the NBA is facing a growing public perception problem. In this video, we break down why Ja Morant has become the “poster boy” for NBA haters, how his actions are weaponized in NBA discourse, and what this means for the league moving forward. 🏀 Topics Covered: • Why Ja Morant’s mistakes get amplified more than other stars • How his story fuels anti-NBA narratives • Media, social networks & controversy inflation • The gap between Ja’s talent and his decision-making • Whether the NBA is doing enough — or too much • How fans, critics, and former players see the future of Morant’s career ⸻ ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Why Ja Morant draws extreme reactions 02:15 – How his controversies impact the NBA’s image 05:40 – The role of social media and talk shows 09:05 – Is Ja held to a different standard? 12:22 – Why critics use Morant as their “proof” 15:00 – What this means for the league going forward Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bob Ryan discusses the legacy of Lenny Wilkens who recently passed away and is inducted into the Hall of Fame on 3 different occasions as a player, coach & as an assistant coach on the 1992 USA Basketball Team. The Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman NBA Podcast is Powered by  💰 Prize Picks - ⁠https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠ 📲Sign up at ⁠http://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS⁠ & Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an exciting episode of "Showtime w/ Coop" as we dive into a thrilling game of "Start, Bench, Cut" featuring some of the NBA's greatest legends! In this week's discussion, we analyze the careers of iconic players like LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Reggie Miller, making tough choices based on their current performance and historical impact. We also explore the fierce rivalry between the Lakers and Celtics, highlighting the skills of James Worthy and Jason Tatum. Plus, we tackle the legacies of Allen Iverson, Moses Malone, and more, culminating in a debate over the greatness of Patrick Ewing, Bill Russell, and Tim Duncan. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that not only celebrates these athletes but also connects their stories to the evolution of the NBA—be sure to check out the documentary "Goliath" for even more insights! — 0:10 - Introduction to SBC segment 2:49 - Starting James Worthy, benching Tatum 5:01 - Discussing Iverson, Moses, Dr. J 5:50 - Starting Moses, benching Doc 6:30 - Discussing Clyde, Gervin, Jaylen Brown 8:20 - Clyde Drexler's impact on the game 10:24 - Starting Bird, benching Tatum 11:44 - Discussing Bill Russell's impact 15:01 - Insights from the documentary Goliath 16:38 - Wilt Chamberlain's legacy and conspiracy theories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Showtime w/ Coop, Lakers legend Michael Cooper and CLNS Media’s Nick Gelso recap the Celtics and Lakers’ start to the season. They discuss former Celtic Marcus Smart’s impact in LA, Luka Doncic’s hot start, and whether the Lakers are a contender. They also react to the NBA’s recent gambling scandal. ⏰EPISODE TIMELINE⏰ 00:00 Intro 02:30 Recapping the Celtics’ start to the season 04:42 Recapping the Lakers’ start to the season 06:21 Marcus Smart’s impact in LA 09:58 How will the Lakers reincorporate LeBron James? 12:30 How big was the win vs the Spurs for LA? 13:09 PrizePicks 14:19 Comparing Luka Doncic to Larry Bird 16:20 Will LeBron retire in LA? Will he go into the HOF as a Cavalier or Laker? 20:20 How concerning is the role of gambling in the NBA? 24:32 COOP: The Making of a Showtime Lakers Legend releases 11/11 33:14 Thanks for watching! Join this channel to get access to perks, exclusive content, rate games, moments, footage and LIVE NBA Legends Q&A and AMAs with members! Start on link below! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWJOKseXd--YsDaUsOt06gA/join Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Michael Cooper & Nick Gelso as we dive into an exciting discussion comparing two NBA Superstars: Larry Bird and Luka Dončić! In this video, Coop explores their unique playing styles, with Luka's sharpshooting prowess contrasting Larry's versatile approach to the game. We also touch on the future of LeBron James and the rising star Cooper Flagg, while examining the competitive dynamics of the league. Discover how social media is reshaping player visibility and fan engagement, and learn about the financial implications of fantasy leagues in today's sports landscape. Don't miss this engaging conversation that captures the thrill and unpredictability of the current basketball season! 0:00 - Discussion on Luka vs. Larry Bird 1:41 - Future of Cooper Flagg in basketball 2:47 - LeBron's potential retirement as a Laker 3:30 - The competitiveness of the Western Conference 🏀 Player Comparisons: #LarryBird and #LukaDončić showcase unique skills, differing in playing styles and impactful statistics. 🌟 Future of #LeBron: Speculation surrounds LeBron James' retirement and potential moves for championship pursuits beyond the Lakers. 📈 Rising Teams: Younger teams like the Rockets are emerging, enhancing competition and elevating the overall quality of the league. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices