| Since its introduction into the NBA the "Dunk" or "Slam Dunk" "Slam" "Jam" and countless other namesakes have been one of the most interesting, and exciting parts of the game. But in recent years the dunks have become stale, prompting many to say the golden age of the dunk has passed. That may not be true, as demonstrated this past weekend in the All-star game the dunk is alive and well. In the early days dunks were a no-no in the NBA. Anyone who left their feet was at risk of finding them knocked from under them when they came back down. But in these days the NBA ways on the ground, near the basket. There was no three points line, and the most shots were taken near the basket. It was a small mans game as the likes of Bob Cousey, and George Yardley ruled the hardwood. By the 1960s the big men had made their presance in the NBA felt. Guys like Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlin could dunk, but it was more of a force then finesse and style. It was not until the late 60s that the modern dunk was invented, and it wasnot invented in the NBA. In 1967 owners in many smaller cities that could not lure an NBA team, formed their own league. The American Basketball Association or ABA as it become called was made up of many players who were said not good enough to be in the NBA. But the ABA introduced no concepts to the game of basketball such as a three points line, and reinvented the Dunk.? |
