The NBA. During the first five decades individual talents were recognized, but not at the expense of down grading the abilities of that particular players teammates. Even in the case of pitting players against their opposition, rarely was a player placed above another because of his team’s success.
Not many were calling Jerry West a better player than Oscar Robinson because he was winning more games. Not many were calling Bill Russell a better player than Wilt Chamberlain for similar reasons.
As the sport progressed during the late '70s and early '80s and the league became more balanced in terms of the overall talent. The team argument was even scarcer.
When folks gave their opinions, regardless of how bias they were, it was almost always for the right reason. It was based on production and how well a guy fared when he went up against a player with equal talent and a team comparable to his. The greatness of a player was based on abilities and not popular opinion.
The "now" was always the deciding factor even though consistency was also important. Names weren’t made based off of some sport-personality trying to make a name for himself by pumping up the abilities of a particular player.
Basically, objectivity was the key. A player had to earn his status of being legendary. Fans understood this, and most importantly, the Media understood this simple notion.
There was a genuine respect and love for the game from fans as well as the media.
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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
