When the Game Was Ours

By: Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Jackie MacMullan, Larry Bird

Narrated by: Dick Hill

Length: 13 hrs

Publisher's summary

From the moment these two players took the court on opposing sides, they engaged in a fierce physical and psychological battle. Their uncommonly competitive relationship came to symbolize the most compelling rivalry in the NBA. These were the basketball epics of the 1980s - Celtics vs Lakers, East vs West, physical vs finesse, Old School vs Showtime, even white vs black.

Each pushed the other to greatness - together Bird and Johnson collected eight NBA Championships, and six MVP awards and helped save the floundering NBA at its most critical time. When it started they were bitter rivals, but along the way they became lifelong friends.

With intimate, fly-on-the-wall detail, When the Game Was Ours transports listeners to this electric era of basketball and reveals for the first time the inner workings of two players dead set on besting one another. From the heady days of trading championships to the darker days of injury and illness, we come to understand Larry's obsessive devotion to winning and how his demons drove him on the court. We hear him talk with candor about playing through chronic pain and its truly exacting toll. In Magic we see a young, invincible star struggle with the sting of defeat, not just as a player but as a team leader. We are there the moment he learns he's contracted HIV and hear in his own words how that devastating news impacted his relationships in basketball and beyond. But always, in both cases, we see them prevail.

A compelling, up close and personal portrait of basketball's most inimitable duo and a rollicking ride through professional basketball's best times.

©2009 Larry Bird and Earvin Johnson (P)2009 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

on the money

great listen. the story jumps around a lot and does dwell on one part of their lives to long. well done

Required Reading for Bball fans

Fans of the game have to add this to their library. It’s the best book on the NBA that I’ve read.

Great look into a fascinating rivalry

This was an easy listen due to me being fascinated at how two legendary NBA figures are both the fiercest rivals while being the best of friends.

The narrator also did a good job of acting out the individuals involved.

Outstanding Book!!!

I was a little apprehensive when I started this book, but was pleasantly surprised at its content and how easy it read. If you were a basketball fan during the Magic/Bird era, then this is a must read. It provides great insight into their characters, their commitment to the game and their drive to win. Sadly, it shows how modern day game has deteriorated since the departure of the Magic, Bird, Jordon legends.

Great book

If you are into the NBA this a fascinating story. If you are Celtics or Lakers fan it’s a must, but it also dives deep into NBA culture & the rise of the NBA.

Outstanding!

All the questions have been answered. Two of the game's best and their legendary rivalry and friendahip told in an in depth and appealing fashion.

Great Insight on Two Great People

I thought the book was great and well worth the listen. The book gave great insight into the passion and dedication that both players had for the game. The only complaint I have is the book did not flow well during the first half because the authors were bouncing back and forth from the NBA days to childhood and it was tough to follow at times. It got much better on the second half and had a great ending.

Larry & Magic

Born-and-raised Bostonian who grew up idolizing Larry Bird. I always knew about his friendship with Magic, but I guess I never knew its depths. This is such an amazing story.

When the NBA was fun to watch!

I really enjoyed this book. I was in high school when Bird and Magic where in their prime. This book took me back to when the NBA was great intertainment! My only issue with the book is the narrator. His voice makes me tired. He just seems bored by the material. It didn't ruin the book for me but it didn't enhance it either. I am sure many people will not mind the narrator but I wish that they would have used someone else.

Great & Fun Read

What did you love best about When the Game Was Ours?

I loved the story of Bird growing up and his discipline and hard work were pillars of his life. I also loved the way Magic did not change who he was for anybody. I liked how two foes became the best of friends.

Who was your favorite character and why?

My favorite character was Larry because of the way he lived his life. His self discipline and his ability to play through pain and injury.

What about Dick Hill’s performance did you like?

He has an enticing voice.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

yes

Any additional comments?

pay attention to the beginning and to the part about Dr. J