The "Bad Boys" defeat Michael Jordan in 1989 using concepts that teams can use against 'star' players. At this time, the NBA had a host of 'Illegal Defense' rules that were repealed later.
- Double on the postups. Laimbeer gets the assignment.
- Double on the perimeter to force the ball out of Jordan's hands. (Early double)
- Double off the cutter (cutter's man switches out to double MJ)
- Off guard helps off the wing.
- Brute force...triple team if necessary.
- Coach Nick explains that the result led to Phil Jackson's arrival, implementation of the Triangle Offense, and a spell of 11 championships in 24 seasons for teams using the Triangle.
Different philosophies exist on defending the star player ranging from "let him get his" and control everyone else to maximum attention as the Pistons applied.