Rick Barry Recalls The Iconic 1967 NBA All-Star Game

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Rick Barry Recalls Iconic NBA All-Star Game

In a memorable discussion with Dan Sileo, NBA legend Rick Barry reminisced about the All-Star Game of 1967 held in San Francisco, a city which had not hosted the event since then until recently. Barry highlighted the extraordinary talent present during this game, noting that the photograph he has from the event includes seven players who are among the top 50 of all time. He specifically praised the formidable Eastern team front line, comprising greats like Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, and Jerry Lucas.

Barry recounted that Nate Thurmond, the center for his team, played exceptionally well, arguably deserving the Most Valuable Player recognition for his performance against these legends, with significant points and rebounds. Additionally, Barry himself had a standout performance, scoring 38 points, setting a record at that time. He expressed a belief in having two awards in such games, one for the Most Valuable Player and another for the Most Outstanding Player, proposing an innovative idea for additional sponsorship opportunities in NBA events.

The intensity of the game was underscored by an incident involving Red Auerbach, coach of the Eastern team, who was ejected from the game — a rarity highlighting the game's competitiveness. Barry lamented the changes over the years that have lessened the seriousness with which All-Star games are played, contrasting them to the more competitive past.

Additionally, Barry touched upon various All-Star Weekend events, questioning the repetitive nature of the slam dunk contest and praising the three-point shootout as a genuine test of skill, suggesting it remains the truest form of competition in the event. He reminisced about notable performances, including that of Damian Lillard, and proposed potential enhancements, such as a team competition element for retired players or others affiliated with the NBA in the three-point shootout.

In reflecting on these experiences and changes in the NBA All-Star Weekend, Barry provided a poignant reminder of the past and insights into the potential evolution of this sporting tradition.