Digest

This podcast delves into the creation of "Courtside: 40 Years of NBA Photography," a book showcasing iconic photos by Nat Butler, a renowned NBA photographer, and insightful stories by Dave McPenneman, a veteran NBA writer. The podcast begins with the announcement of the book and explores the origins of the project, revealing that Nat was frequently asked about creating a book but was always focused on capturing the next great image. The pandemic provided him with the opportunity to finally pursue this project. Dave shares his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing his admiration for Nat's work and the privilege of collaborating on the book. He highlights the significance of Nat's photos, particularly those capturing behind-the-scenes moments and the trust players have placed in him over the years. The podcast discusses the book's forewords by Adam Silver and Patrick Ewing, highlighting the strong relationships Nat has built with key figures in the NBA. The podcast explores the process of gathering quotes from players for the book, emphasizing the challenges of securing quotes from active and retired players. Dave and Nat discuss their strategy for obtaining quotes, highlighting the importance of building relationships and leveraging existing connections. The podcast delves into specific iconic photos from the book, starting with a photo of Bill Russell with his 11 championship rings. Nat shares the story behind the photo, revealing the challenges of obtaining the rings and the historical significance of the image. The podcast continues to showcase iconic photos, including a photo of Kobe Bryant after winning the championship in 2001. Nat explains the context of the photo, highlighting the unique perspective it offers and the importance of capturing those fleeting moments. The podcast focuses on a photo of Ray Allen's game-winning shot in the 2013 NBA Finals. Nat shares his perspective on the shot, emphasizing the context and implications of the moment, and how it highlights the power of capturing those pivotal moments in sports history. The podcast concludes with a discussion of the 1992 Dream Team and Nat's experiences photographing the iconic team. He shares his memories of being around the players, highlighting the unique atmosphere and the significance of the event in basketball history.

Outlines

00:00:00

Creating "Courtside: 40 Years of NBA Photography"

This podcast explores the creation of "Courtside: 40 Years of NBA Photography," a book featuring iconic photos by Nat Butler and insightful stories by Dave McPenneman, highlighting the power of capturing moments and the importance of relationships in the NBA.

00:02:43

Nat Butler's Journey and the Inspiration for the Book

Nat discusses the origins of the book project, revealing that he was frequently asked about creating a book. He explains that he was always focused on capturing the next great image and didn't have time for such a project until the pandemic provided him with some free time.

00:04:39

Dave McPenneman's Perspective and Collaboration

Dave shares his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing his admiration for Nat's work and the privilege of collaborating on the book. He highlights the significance of Nat's photos, particularly those capturing behind-the-scenes moments and the trust players have placed in him over the years.

00:08:32

The Book's Forewords and the Importance of Relationships

The podcast discusses the book's forewords by Adam Silver and Patrick Ewing, highlighting the strong relationships Nat has built with key figures in the NBA. Nat shares his personal connection with Patrick Ewing, emphasizing his respect and admiration for the former Georgetown star.

00:09:40

Gathering Quotes and the Book's Historical Significance

The podcast explores the process of gathering quotes from players for the book, emphasizing the challenges of securing quotes from active and retired players. Dave and Nat discuss their strategy for obtaining quotes, highlighting the importance of building relationships and leveraging existing connections.

00:12:15

Iconic Photos and Behind-the-Scenes Stories

The podcast delves into specific iconic photos from the book, showcasing the stories behind them and the significance of capturing those moments.

Keywords

Q&A

• What inspired Nat Butler to create "Courtside: 40 Years of NBA Photography"?

  Nat was frequently asked about creating a book, but he was always focused on capturing the next great image. The pandemic provided him with some free time, allowing him to finally pursue this project.

• How did Dave McPenneman become involved in the book project?

  Dave, a longtime NBA writer and colleague of Nat's, was invited to collaborate on the book due to his deep knowledge of the game and his connections to many of the players featured in the book.

• What makes Nat Butler's photos so iconic?

  Nat's photos are iconic because they capture not only the action on the court but also the emotions, personalities, and behind-the-scenes moments that make the NBA so compelling. He has built trust with players over the years, allowing him to capture intimate moments that most fans never get to see.

• How did Nat and Dave gather quotes from players for the book?

  They leveraged their existing relationships with players and coaches, strategically reaching out to them during games and events. They also used their connections with PR personnel to facilitate interviews.

• What is the significance of the photo of Bill Russell with his 11 championship rings?

  The photo is significant because it captures the essence of Bill Russell's legacy, highlighting his 11 championships and his impact on the game. It also reveals the challenges of obtaining the rings, as Russell did not receive all 11 rings during his career.

• What makes the photo of Kobe Bryant in the bathroom after winning the championship in 2001 so powerful?

  The photo captures a unique and intimate moment, showcasing Kobe's solitude and reflection after achieving a significant victory. It offers a glimpse into the human side of the athlete, beyond the public persona.

• Why is the photo of Ray Allen's game-winning shot in the 2013 NBA Finals so important?

  The photo captures a pivotal moment in NBA history, highlighting the significance of Allen's shot and its impact on the outcome of the series. It also showcases the emotions and reactions of the players and fans, capturing the intensity and drama of the game.

• What made the 1992 Dream Team so unique?

  The Dream Team was unique because it brought together the greatest basketball players in the world, creating a team that dominated the competition and changed the landscape of international basketball. It was a moment of unprecedented talent and global impact.

Show Notes