The J-Notes
Fansided

Breaking down my all-time starting five for the Utah Jazz

By Ryan Aston

WASHINGTON - UNDATED: Utah Jazz's guard Pete Maravich #7 gives the referee a discouraging look during a game against the Washington Bullets at Capital Center circa the 1970's in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON - UNDATED: Utah Jazz's guard Pete Maravich #7 gives the referee a discouraging look during a game against the Washington Bullets at Capital Center circa the 1970's in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images) /
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Shooting Guard: “Pistol” Pete Maravich

You could make the case for Pistol Pete at either guard spot, but I’ve got him at the two here. He didn’t make the aforementioned Mt. Rushmore due to his best days coming before the Jazz moved to Utah. However, if you’re making a list about Jazz history, you have to include the Pistol.

Before the Lakers rose back to prominence in the ’80s, Pete Maravich was showtime personified. Magic Johnson was even quoted as saying that the Pistol was the “original showtime.” Hall of Famers Isiah Thomas and John Havlicek each labeled him the greatest ball-handler of all time.

Any way you say it, Maravich was one of the most creatively talented offensive players the NBA has ever seen. He was a scoring machine in college at LSU and also as a professional. His flashy, improvisational style with the ball in his hands was one of the few high notes for the Jazz during their early years and continues to resonate with players today.

Honorable mention: Jeff Hornacek

Next: Small Forward