1987-88 Fleer James Worthy #130 Los Angeles Lakers HOF

Description: James Worthy, nicknamed "Big Game James," is a Hall of Fame basketball player best known for his time with the **Los Angeles Lakers** during their "Showtime" era in the 1980s. A key member of three NBA championship teams, Worthy was renowned for his clutch performances in the postseason, smooth playing style, and versatility as a forward. ### Career Overview:- **NBA Debut**: Worthy was selected as the **1st overall pick** in the **1982 NBA Draft** by the Los Angeles Lakers.- **Retirement**: Worthy retired after the **1993-1994 season**, having played his entire career with the Lakers. ### Teams Played For:- **Los Angeles Lakers** (1982–1994) ### Achievements:1. **3-Time NBA Champion**: Worthy was a key player on the Lakers' championship teams in **1985, 1987, and 1988**.2. **NBA Finals MVP**: He was named the **NBA Finals MVP in 1988**, after a legendary performance in Game 7 against the Detroit Pistons, where he recorded **36 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists**, securing the Lakers' championship.3. **7-Time NBA All-Star**: Worthy was selected to the **NBA All-Star Game seven times** (1986–1992).4. **All-NBA Team**: Worthy was named to the **All-NBA Third Team** twice (1990, 1991).5. **Career Stats**: Worthy finished his career with averages of **17.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.0 assists** per game.6. **Postseason Heroics**: Worthy earned the nickname "Big Game James" for his ability to elevate his performance in the playoffs. He averaged **21.1 points per game** in the postseason, significantly higher than his regular-season average. ### Style of Play:- **Clutch Performer**: Worthy was at his best during crucial moments, particularly in the playoffs. His ability to deliver in big games earned him his famous nickname.- **Versatility and Athleticism**: A small forward with a powerful post-up game, smooth mid-range jumper, and excellent finishing ability on fast breaks, Worthy fit perfectly into the Lakers’ up-tempo "Showtime" offense.- **Transition Game**: Worthy was one of the most effective players in transition, often finishing fast breaks with his trademark one-handed slam, making him a perfect fit for Magic Johnson’s fast-paced offense.- **Defense**: Worthy was also a solid defender, using his size and athleticism to guard multiple positions. ### Key Highlights:- **1988 NBA Finals Performance**: Worthy’s performance in Game 7 of the 1988 Finals solidified his legacy. His 36-point, 16-rebound, 10-assist triple-double helped the Lakers win their second consecutive championship, making him one of the few players to record a triple-double in Game 7 of the Finals.- **Showtime Lakers**: Worthy was a vital part of the "Showtime" Lakers, a fast-paced, high-scoring team led by Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Worthy’s ability to thrive in this system helped the Lakers dominate the Western Conference during the 1980s. ### College Career:Before joining the NBA, Worthy had a stellar college career at the **University of North Carolina**, where he played alongside Michael Jordan and was named the **Most Outstanding Player of the 1982 NCAA Tournament** after leading the Tar Heels to a national championship. ### Post-Basketball Career:- **Broadcasting**: After retiring, Worthy became a successful **NBA analyst and commentator**, working primarily for the **Los Angeles Lakers** broadcast team.- **Coaching**: He has also worked in various coaching capacities, including assisting with player development for the Lakers. ### Hall of Fame:Worthy was inducted into the **Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame** in **2003**, recognizing his achievements as one of the greatest forwards in NBA history. ### Legacy:James Worthy’s combination of skill, athleticism, and clutch performances made him an essential piece of one of the NBA's most successful dynasties. Known for his ability to perform under pressure, his role in the Lakers' "Showtime" era, and his memorable moments in the NBA Finals, Worthy remains a beloved figure in basketball history. His nickname "Big Game James" perfectly captures his legacy as a player who delivered when it mattered most.

Price: 8 USD

Location: Olathe, Kansas

End Time: 2025-01-06T23:13:16.000Z

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