Isaiah Thomas: The Little Big Show
Appropriately deemed "King of the Fourth" stands 5'9 superstar guard Isaiah Thomas, a fan favorite and new face of the Boston Celtics, boasting a rich history with 17 championships to show for it. Thus far, Thomas has led the C's to a 31-18 record, trailing the first place Cleveland Cavaliers by just two and a half games, consistently showcasing his ability to take control in the fourth quarter. He has become a heartthrob in Boston, garnering adulation and respect from one of the hardest fanbases to please, which in addition to his play on the court, has much to do with being the "little guy".
When it comes to the "little guy" there are many who have embraced that role, such as Muggsy Bogues, Spudd Webb, and Nate Robinson. Though one man known to many as "the answer" revolutionized it. At just six feet, former Philadelphia 76ers point guard Allen Iverson may have had the best season for a "little guy" in NBA history. Almost identical on the court, Thomas's game could lead him down the same path as AI.
Iverson put forth his best season in 2000-01, earning the rights to starting the All-Star Game, All-Star Game MVP, league MVP, and most notably leading his team to the NBA Finals, eventually losing 4-1 to the powerhouse Los Angeles Lakers led by Kobe Bryant and Finals MVP Shaquille O'Neal. On the season Iverson averaged 31.1 points per game, 3.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.5 steals. Iverson went on to become an icon in Philadelphia with his unique personality and fashion statements, intruding the sleeve and more to the rest of the league.
Thomas is posting mind boggling numbers for one at his height, as he ranks second in points per game, averaging 29.4. Assuming his numbers remain the same or increase, Thomas should be a sure MVP candidate. Thomas has three 40 point games as well as his career high 52 point outing against the Miami Heat. In Monday's home victory against the Detroit Pistons, Thomas dropped 41, 24 of which he scored in fourth quarter.
The make or break facet to a player's game that separates stars from superstars is the ability to close. When comparing Thomas to Iverson, both have earned the trust of their teammates in the biggest moments. With the ball in his hands as time winds down, Thomas is as dangerous as they come. His validation as a superstar came against the Atlanta Hawks in which he nailed the game-winner with 2.4 seconds left.
[All-Star Top 10: Isaiah Thomas - NBA.com]Recognized for his play, Thomas was recently named an All-Star reserve for the Eastern Conference. However, many believe Thomas was robbed of a starting spot. Nevertheless, he is now a two-time NBA All-Star in consecutive years. It's only fitting that "King of the Fourth" wears number four, only to add more to a distinguished resume.
