Isiah Thomas Biography

1961-

American basketball player

When Isiah Thomas joined the Detroit Pistons in 1981, they were among the worst in the league, a disheartened group of guys struggling through each season. Thomas, however, transformed them into a proud, poised cohesive team. Under Thomas's direction—and attitude—the Pistons became known as the "Bad Boys" of the NBA. As their image deteriorated, their play improved. Thomas himself wore the smile of a gentleman, but underneath, he was more like a rugged outlaw, willing to do whatever it took to win the prize. For thirteen seasons, Thomas was the team's go-to guy: the one who could pour on the points when time was short and the odds were long. Once, Thomas scored sixteen points in the final ninety-four seconds of a game. Another time, he scored twenty-five points in a single NBA Finals quarter, setting an NBA record. Led by Thomas, the Pistons won back-to-back National Basketball Association (NBA) championships in 1989 and 1990. During his years with the Pistons, Thomas energized the city of Detroit and remains among the team's most beloved alums. He retired in 1994 as the Pistons' all-time leader in points (18,822), assists (9,061), steals (1,861), and games played (979)

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