NBA Top Shot is diving into basketball history with our 1986-87 collection of exclusive video collectibles capturing the best of a beloved era. Your chance to own these Moments begins with a series of pack drops on September 21, 22 and 23 — but don’t worry, whether or not you land a pack or the pack you collect has your favorite players inside, you can find every new Moment in the Top Shot Marketplace after the drop.
Here’s a look at the 1986-87 Shooting Guards coming to Top Shot. Want to own their limited edition video collectibles? Create your Top Shot account today.
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Danny Ainge, Boston Celtics (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT DANNY AINGE
A hard-nosed, pound-for-pound hooper, Danny Ainge made key contributions to the Celtics championship teams in 1984 and 1986, and beyond.
His peak season was the 1987-88 campaign, when he averaged over 15 PPG and 6 APG, earning his one All-Star appearance.
Ainge provided an added edge to the Boston dynasty of the ‘80s – as if it didn’t have enough already. His on-court confrontations energized and legitimized the Celtics and their no-nonsense stature.
Drilling clutch shots was no problem for Ainge either. With so much surrounding talent, he confidently stepped into open looks. He drilled more than 100 3-pointers in five seasons during his career, and ended his NBA playing days with an 84.3% rate at the line.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
Postseason heroes are rewarded eternal immortality in Boston — just ask Danny Ainge. Showing he has a nose for big moments, the Celtics fan favorite catches an outlet pass with the clock winding down. With no time or other options remaining, Ainge takes one dribble just over the halfcourt line and buries a one-handed desperation heave as time in the first half expires. The expert marksman was on point in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, converting 7 of 11 field goals — 5-for-6 beyond the arc — for 21 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals in Boston’s 123-108 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on June 11, 1987.
Ron Harper, Cleveland Cavaliers (Rare, In Packs)
ABOUT RON HARPER
Ron Harper was a tremendous athlete and reserve player championship teams heavily relied on.
During his rookie campaign with the Cavaliers in 1986-87, Harper’s electric ball handling and acrobatic finishing led him to an NBA All-Rookie First Team selection. His 22.9 PPG that season was his highest total for his entire 15-year career.
With the Bulls and Lakers, Harper wasn’t the scoring machine from the dawn of his NBA days, but he sacrificed individual accolades for a winning attitude. Harper’s role drastically transformed, and he was tasked with molding his talents around all-time greats.
Harper’s lockdown focus and steady veteran presence anchored defenses deep into the Playoffs. His go-to-work attitude fostered a winning mentality, and he took home five total titles with Chicago in the late ‘90s and LA in the early 2000s.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
You don’t become an NBA champion five times in 16 years without fully understanding the benefits of teamwork and relentless defense. Ron Harper recognized instantly as a rookie that doing the little things right separates good players from legends, turning a routine defensive possession into a pure hustle play. Eyeing a teammate in the post who drew the unfortunate assignment of guarding a Boston Celtics legend, Harper’s basketball instincts take over, drifting into the low block with unselfish help defense and swatting the shot from behind. Harper made significant impacts on both ends, finishing with 30 points, seven rebounds, nine assists, two blocks and a steal on January 16, 1987.
Rolando Blackman, Dallas Mavericks (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT ROLANDO BLACKMAN
The first Panamanian-born player to make it to the NBA, Rolando Blackman played the majority of his career as the Mavericks primary offensive weapon.
Blackman was a patient, 1-on-1 scorer with a silky jumper. His quick release made him tough to track in the mid-range. His start-and-stop style was unique for his lanky 6-foot-6, 190-lb frame. Overlooked as a defender, Blackman had a long reach that gave the league’s top wings problems.
Blackman made two Conference Finals appearances over his career – once in the 1988 Playoffs with Dallas, and another in the 1994 Playoffs with New York. Across 10 postseason series with the Mavericks, Blackman averaged a whopping 21.9 PPG and 39.5 minutes per game.
He’s currently 2nd on the Mavericks all-time scoring list (16,643), and his No. 22 is retired by the franchise.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
Confidence, baby. Confidence. On many nights, despite the defense’s best efforts, Rolando Blackman would not be denied. Shaking himself free from a one-on-one matchup at the top of the key, the longtime Dallas Mavericks shooting guard surveys his options before realizing that the best chance for a bucket rests on his shoulders. Blackman takes one dribble into the lane before sheer instinct takes over, rising high into the air for a picture perfect finger roll. The New York Knicks had zero answers for the four-time All-Star’s efficiency, as Blackman converted 12 of 18 field goals and 17 of 19 free throws on his way to a 41-point, four-rebound, six-assist effort in a 108-103 victory on January 13, 1987.
Vinnie Johnson, Detroit Pistons (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT VINNIE JOHNSON
Rarely utilized as a starter, Vinnie Johnson earned the nickname “The Microwave” due to his ability to heat up when called upon.
Johnson played low to the ground – that is – until he went to shoot a jumper. He would pivot, back down, muscle and grind his way along the mid-range area, then elevate to get his unconventional shot off.
On the way to two championships with the Pistons, Johnson was highly-appreciated among teammates and fans. He cemented his place in franchise lore after drilling a game-clinching shot in Game 5 of the 1990 NBA Finals against the Trail Blazers, effectively securing back-to-back titles.
Detroit honored Johnson by retiring his No. 15 jersey in the rafters.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
Despite the fact that he started just eight games during the 1986-87 season, Vinnie Johnson was still the Detroit Pistons’ third-leading scorer, earning his nickname ‘The Microwave’ with his ability to instantly heat up when called upon. The sixth-man extraordinaire wastes no time in cooking the Dallas Mavericks, starting the possession atop the key before making his move, blowing by three helpless defenders and finishing at the rim while earning the chance for a three-point play. The two-time champion was in the zone all night, scoring 28 points off the bench in a 125-115 victory on March 6, 1987.
Byron Scott, Los Angeles Lakers (Rare, In Packs)
ABOUT BYRON SCOTT
During the Lakers’ heyday, Byron Scott brought some extra juice. In his career, he started as LA’s shooting guard from 1984-1993 and added a dynamic leaping and scoring ability to one of the Western Conference’s famed dynasties.
He didn’t play in an era where the three-pointer reigned, but Scott still filled it up. He remains fourth on the Lakers all-time triples list (595), and recorded a career 37 percent rate from downtown.
Constantly encouraged by his teammates to shoot and run the break at will, Scott ended up leading the Lakers in scoring (21.7 PPG) during the 1987-88 championship season.
Scott could also posterize and terrorize defenses, and he loved doing it as a three-time title winner on one of the flashiest teams of the ‘80s.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
No matter the era of hoops, few plays get fans out of their seats quite like a poster dunk. Pushing the tempo in transition in a 3-on-2 advantage, Byron Scott runs parallel to the ball handler as the play develops, waiting for the defense to collapse. When the moment arrives, Scott receives an opportune bounce pass and takes care of the rest, soaring into the air for a one-handed slam while putting a helpless Golden State Warriors defender on his backside. Scott had a huge Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals, tallying 28 points, seven rebounds and two assists on May 10, 1987, and would ultimately earn his second of three championship rings later that postseason.
Michael Cooper, Los Angeles Lakers (Rare, In Packs)
ABOUT MICHAEL COOPER
Giving the Lakers their edge, Michael Cooper’s wiry tenacity made him a fan favorite inside The LA Forum during the 1980s.
Cooper was an integral defensive piece of the Lakers dynasty with his everlasting hustle and doggedness. Due to his perimeter guarding abilities, Cooper earned eight All-Defensive Team selections over his career. He also won the 1987 Defensive Player of the Year and carried an immense role on LA’s five championships in one decade.
No transition play was out of reach for Cooper – on either end. Whatever it took, he’d crash into the stands, sprint for chasedown blocks and rise up for alley-oops to make an extra-effort highlight.
Cooper is in the top 10 on the Lakers all-time lists for games played, steals, rebounds and assists. “Coop” was LA’s ultimate stopper.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
In a season where he was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Michael Cooper was quick to remind opponents of his equally dynamic offensive skill set. First displaying those chops that earned him selections on five NBA All-Defensive First Teams, the longtime Los Angeles Lakers wing uses his length to deflect a pass. Scooping up the steal, Cooper finds himself alone with the basket, opting to throw down a two-handed reverse jam to the delight of an awestruck home crowd. The New York Knicks were no match for the Lakers and Cooper, who put together a 15-point performance on an efficient 6-for-7 shooting to pair with four assists and three steals in the 111-88 win on November 9, 1986.
Ricky Pierce, Milwaukee Bucks (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT RICKY PIERCE
Coaches called on Ricky Pierce off the bench for much-needed points and he pulled through. The two-time Sixth Man of the Year (‘87, ‘90) was an all-out scoring machine.
Pierce wasn’t forced to play out of his comfort zone. He was labeled as a sniper from the outside, and he stuck to his reserve scoring role. In the 1990-91 season, Pierce played half a season with both the Bucks and the SuperSonics, and despite only starting two total games, he still received an All-Star bid for his 20.5 PPG on the year.
In NBA history, Pierce has the 5th-most regular season points off the bench (9,513) and the 12th-most playoff points off the bench (828).
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
Having a crucial reserve who possesses a starter's talent is a cheat code for any NBA squad. Ricky Pierce was twice named Sixth Man of the Year in his career, including the 1986-87 season, and it’s not difficult to comprehend why. Sizing up his defender, the longtime Milwaukee Bucks guard makes his move, first stutter-stepping right and then putting the ball on the floor with his left before finally changing direction one last time and converting a right-handed finger roll while absorbing contact for the and-one opportunity. Pierce was his usual productive self off the bench, scoring 23 points on 11-for-15 shooting in Milwaukee’s 111-104 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 14, 1987.
Gerald Wilkins, New York Knicks (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT GERALD WILKINS
When the late-80s Knicks needed a secondary scoring option, they turned to Gerald Wilkins, the younger brother of Hawks’ star, Dominique. New York selected Wilkins with the 47th overall pick of the 1985 Draft, and the franchise’s bet on his athleticism paid off.
Wilkins had tremendous hang time. His blend of aggressiveness and finesse was a unique approach to finishing at the rim. He was invited to two straight NBA Slam Dunk Contest competitions in 1986 and 1987.
Over his 7-year stint with the Knicks, Wilkins averaged 14.9 PPG. During the ‘86-87 season, he was the second-leading scorer on the team (19.1 PPG), trailing only Patrick Ewing.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
While all shots inside the arc are worth the same on the scoreboard, some just hit different. Gerald Wilkins puts this to the test, first pump-faking an initial defender out of his shoes before weaving his way into the lane and executing a jaw-dropping, one-handed reverse slam over another overmatched Indiana Pacers challenger. Wilkins erupted for 34 points off the bench, while adding five rebounds and six assists in the New York Knicks’ thrilling 111-105 overtime victory on March 19, 1987.
Jeff Hornacek, Phoenix Suns (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT JEFF HORNACEK
Defenses scrambled to not allow Jeff Hornacek open space. His wide-array of shots made him difficult to guard during his deep Playoff runs with Phoenix and Utah over his 14-year career.
Whether sprinting off screens, spotting up on the perimeter or pump-faking in the lane, Hornacek consistently found ways to set his feet and square up for jumpers. When attacking the basket, he routinely used the glass and a high-arch to finish over taller defenders.
Hornacek’s lone All-Star appearance occurred during the 1991-92 season, when he averaged over 20 PPG for the first time.
The Jazz counted on Hornacek to add spot scoring in back-to-back NBA Finals appearances vs. the Bulls (‘97 and ‘98) – he averaged 11.4 PPG across both series.
A reliable third scorer, Hornacek was clutch when it counted. Over his career, He shot 43% from deep in the postseason, recorded 87.7% from the line and collected two NBA Three-Point Contest trophies.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
One of the best ways to stick in the NBA is to find multiple ways to score. In his rookie season, Jeff Hornacek gives the Detroit Pistons defense a preview of what’s to come, first proving to be deadly in open space and converting on a difficult underhanded scoop shot. Then, after a heady Phoenix Suns teammate deflects the ensuing inbound pass, Hornacek strikes again, collecting the loose ball along the baseline and throwing up a prayer while falling out of bounds from behind the basket. The one-time All-Star and two-time Three-Point Contest champion had the crowd on its feet, posting 10 points, four rebounds and two assists off the bench to help the Suns prevail 120-118 on January 26, 1987.
Walter Davis, Phoenix Suns (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT WALTER DAVIS
The “Man with a Velvet Touch,” Walter Davis was one of the silkiest scorers the West has ever seen.
Davis learned his shooting ways from HOF talent at an early age. He leveraged his index finger, pointed it toward the rim and persistently went after his target. He once said the three things that make a good shooter are, “Confidence, shooting the ball the correct way, and practice.”
He reaped rewards – the 1978 Rookie of the Year award and six All-Star appearances – all thanks to his immaculate jumper.
Davis averaged 18.9 PPG over his career, and he remains No. 1 on the Suns all-time scorers list (15,666 PTS).
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
Walter Davis had a stroke so silky smooth that it was often compared to velvet. The Phoenix Suns’ all-time leading scorer showcases that legendary touch against the Utah Jazz, first dribbling between the elbow and low post while looking for an opening before unleashing an effortless jumper, successfully pump faking a capable defender shadowing his every move. The 1978 Rookie of the Year and six-time All-Star was on point all game thanks to his immaculate jumper, scoring 23 points while also adding a rebound, an assist and a steal in the March 31, 1987 contest.
Clyde Drexler, Portland Trail Blazers (Rare, In Packs)
ABOUT CLYDE DREXLER
Rarely did a basketball player personify “cool” and “smooth” in his game as much as Clyde Drexler.
When “Clyde the Glide” went up for a slam, he floated. An all-around player, Drexler could score, pass and rebound among the best in the league. His pure athleticism led him to 10 All-Star appearances, five All-NBA nods and a Hall of Fame career.
Of course Drexler was a high-flying showman, but his leadership turned Portland into a prominent franchise. He was an unselfish playmaker. Outside of his rookie year, Drexler never averaged less than 4.8 APG in a season.
In Houston, the same city where he rose the college basketball ranks, Drexler earned his lone NBA title with the ‘95 Rockets.
Drexler is one of only six players in NBA history to record more than 20,000 points, 6,000 rebounds and 6,000 assists in a career. Man, could he do it all.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
In the annals of NBA history, countless players have earned catchy nicknames, but few were more spot on than Clyde Drexler’s. Known to many as ‘The Glide’ for his seemingly effortless and graceful strides to the basket, the Portland Trail Blazers legend and Hall of Famer reminds the Dallas Mavericks of his prowess. Following a rejection on the defensive end, Portland pushes the counterattack, with Drexler using his quickness to get behind the entire defense in transition, finishing with an emphatic one-handed slam. It was a routinely spectacular night at the office for Drexler, who produced 24 points, six rebounds and eight assists on December 10, 1986.
Dale Ellis, Seattle SuperSonics (Rare, In Packs)
ABOUT DALE ELLIS
All about dialing it up from downtown, Dale Ellis was a 3-point shooting forefather.
He thrived as a long-range specialist, and in a premier role with Seattle in the ‘86-87 season, Ellis took home the Most Improved Player award. His incredible scoring leap from 7.1 PPG the season before to 24.9 PPG made him the easy No. 1 choice for the honor.
Defenders scrambled to contest Ellis’ jumpers. He was a key fixture in the SuperSonics high-powered offense, and earned his only All-Star bid in 1989 for a career-high 27.5 PPG over the campaign.
At the close of his 17-year NBA career, Ellis finished with a 40.3% rate from deep.
Famously, he became the first NBA player to amass 1,000 3-pointers.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
Sometimes a simple change of scenery is all a player needs to realize his true potential. After spending his first three seasons with the Dallas Mavericks averaging single digits in scoring, Dale Ellis exhibited one of the league’s most dramatic year-to-year improvements as soon as he was traded to the Pacific Northwest. Making it easy to understand why the Seattle SuperSonics guard would ultimately earn the NBA’s Most Improved Player award that season, Ellis wastes little time asserting his postseason dominance against his former squad, driving hard into the lane to allude one defender before unfurling a finger roll over another. Ellis was in complete control in Game 3 of the First Round, guiding his No. 7 seed squad to a 2-1 series lead (and eventual series win) to the tune of 43 points and 14 rebounds — eight offensive — in Seattle’s 117-107 win on April 28, 1987.
Dell Curry, Utah Jazz (Common, Challenge Reward)
ABOUT DELL CURRY
During his 16-year tenure in the NBA, Dell Curry came off the bench and provided instant offense.
Curry’s extended stint in Charlotte began when he landed on the Hornets as the second overall selection in the NBA’s 1988 expansion draft.
A consistent reserve with impeccable shooting form, Curry was leaned on as a complimentary bucket-getter. In his first nine seasons with the Hornets, he averaged above 10 PPG in each campaign.
In the Charlotte record books, you can find Curry at the top in games played (701) and second in points scored (9,839) – trailing only Kemba Walker.
NBA fans across the globe are glad Curry passed his shooting genes along.
Jeff Malone, Washington Bullets (Common, In Packs)
ABOUT JEFF MALONE
Jeff Malone could score in bunches, and he did so in an unconventional fashion.
The two-time All-Star for Washington had a knack for finishing off-balance. His assortment of runners kept defenders guessing. In a notable streak, Malone recorded 11 straight seasons scoring over 16 PPG.
Simply put, Malone filled it up for the Bullets. He led Washington in points during the decade of the ‘80s, and is currently 3rd on the franchise’s all-time scoring list.
As the focal point of the offense, he took the Bullets to five consecutive Playoff appearances (1984-1988), and valiantly battled head-to-head against the mighty Celtics, 76ers and Pistons of the era.
Malone’s also known for drilling one of the most unlikely game-winning shots in NBA history. During his All-Rookie campaign, in only his 30th NBA game, Malone hit a leaning 3-pointer – of course – from behind the basket to take out the Pistons in thrilling fashion.
ABOUT THE MOMENT (WATCH THE MOMENT)
The only thing more satisfying than scoring a career-high in points is doing so in a close, hard-fought win. In the second of two straight All-Star seasons, Jeff Malone was in the zone against the New Jersey Nets, catching a long outlet pass from a Washington Bullets teammate and beating the only defender in his path by going up strong for an and-one layup. Malone made sure that his squad would not be denied, pouring in 48 points along with four rebounds and seven assists in Washington’s narrow 117-114 victory on March 4, 1987.
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Happy Run It Back Week! See you at the pack drops.
