Like every midseason showcase, the 1997 NBA All-Star Weekend in Cleveland was a marquee event, not only for its collection of active players — Michael Jordan, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon, et al — but also for the much-planned celebration of the league's storied history.
As a rookie with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1996-97, guard Reggie Geary witnessed that excitement, and he can vividly recall details of that weekend's activities.
"That was the year the NBA celebrated its 50th anniversary by naming the 50 greatest players team in league history," said Geary, the second-year Yokohama B-Corsairs head coach. "I got to meet or see everyone — Wilt (Chamberlain), (George) Mikan, (Bill) Russell, (Bob) Cousy, and (Magic) Johnson to name a few, which made for an unbelievable experience."