Walt Frazier

Easton Press Walt Frazier books

The Game Within the Game - Signed Limited Edition - 2008

 

Basketball player Walt Frazier

Walt Frazier, born Walter Frazier Jr. on March 29, 1945, is an American former professional basketball player and sports commentator, widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Frazier's journey to basketball stardom began at Southern Illinois University, where he played college basketball for the Salukis. Frazier's basketball prowess quickly became evident during his collegiate career, and he caught the attention of NBA scouts. In 1967, he was selected by the New York Knicks as the fifth overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft. This marked the beginning of Frazier's illustrious NBA career.

Known for his exceptional skills on both ends of the court, Walt Frazier played a pivotal role in the New York Knicks' success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. His nickname, "Clyde," was derived from his sartorial flair and stylish demeanor, reminiscent of the famous outlaw Clyde Barrow. Frazier's on-court style was equally distinctive, characterized by his smooth ball-handling, precise passing, and stellar defense. The pinnacle of Frazier's career came in the 1969-1970 and 1972-1973 seasons when he led the Knicks to two NBA championships. His performance in the 1970 NBA Finals, where the Knicks defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, was particularly memorable. Frazier was named the NBA Finals MVP for his outstanding contributions. Throughout his career, Frazier earned multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors. He was known for his ability to perform under pressure, especially in critical moments during high-stakes games. Frazier's defensive skills were also widely acknowledged, and he was selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team several times.

After leaving the Knicks in 1977, Frazier played briefly for the Cleveland Cavaliers before retiring as a player. His impact on the game extended beyond his playing days, as he transitioned to a successful career as a basketball commentator and analyst. Frazier's distinctive style and insightful commentary made him a popular figure in sports broadcasting. Off the court, Walt Frazier's influence also reached the world of fashion. He became known for his impeccable taste in clothing, further solidifying his "Clyde" persona. Walt Frazier's legacy in the NBA remains enduring, not only for his contributions to the Knicks' championship successes but also for his lasting impact on the point guard position. His number 10 jersey was retired by the New York Knicks in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the franchise and the sport of basketball.

 

The Game Within the Game

Walt Frazier, one of the greatest guards ever to play the game, writes about "old school ball" and his ideas for reinvigorating the sport In The Game Within the Game , basketball legend Walt Frazier looks at basketball from both a historical and personal viewpoint. When Frazier first started playing the game, discipline and strategy were more highly valued than in today's game, which he describes as having devolved into "a playground fest of dunks and threes." The old-school style of Frazier's past emphasized substance over style, contrary to the current state of the game, where celebrity and fl ashy moves dominate. In lively and accessible language, Frazier writes about how important "the game within the game" really is. He emphasizes timing and mental skill, far more than dazzling moves, as the strengths that today's players need to hone in order to achieve success. Frazier makes some controversial points, aimed at new basketball players. "The game within the game starts with players respecting their coaches, their teammates, and the opposing team. The Indiana Pacers had a good chance of winning the NBA championship last year before Artest erupted. They had a record of 16 wins and only 8 losses at the time the brawl occurred and were touted as the team with the best chance of dethroning the Pistons in the East. Artest had been out of control for a long time. The Pacers tried to rein him in by suspending him earlier in the season, but Artest didnt learn his lesson. He is a product of his times. Basketball is a microcosm of life. Walking down the street today, guys want their props. If you bump into a young guy, he might go off. It's carried over into the NBA. The guys in the league today are young and they often have a similar mindset."