Game Changer: The Inside Story of the Sonics’ Resurgence, the Trail Blazers’ Turnaround, and the Deal that Saved the Seahawks

Bob Whitsitt was named the NBA Executive of the Year in 1994 and was recruited to salvage the Seattle SuperSonics in 1986. He also played a pivotal role in convincing Paul Allen to purchase the Portland Trail Blazers and keep them in town. Whitsitt is the only person to have been both the president and general manager of the Seahawks, Sonics, and Trail Blazers. Game Changer offers insights and stories from the glory days of three beloved teams, including how he earned the nickname Trader Bob, his recruitment of Shawn Kemp, his negotiation tips, and his rankings of the all-time-best NBA players and coaches.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2023
Publisher: Girl Friday Productions

Bob Whitsitt, a renowned sports executive, has authored a captivating book titled "Game Changer: The Deals That Changed the Destinies of Three Iconic Pacific Northwest Sports Teams." In this insightful narrative, Whitsitt delves into the behind-the-scenes negotiations and trades that transformed the fortunes of three iconic Pacific Northwest sports teams: the Seahawks, the SuperSonics, and the Trail Blazers.

Whitsitt's journey in the sports industry began as an intern for the Indiana Pacers in 1978. However, his ascent to prominence was swift, as he was named the NBA Executive of the Year in 1994. Over the next decade and a half, he played a pivotal role in leading a transformative era in the NBA.

In 1986, at the tender age of thirty, Whitsitt was recruited to save the Seattle SuperSonics, whose glory had faded after their 1979 NBA championship. Despite facing significant challenges, Whitsitt guided the team back to fighting form and into the playoffs in just one season. His bold player trades and risk-taking moves caught the attention of billionaire Paul Allen, who coaxed Whitsitt into taking the helm of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Whitsitt's tenure with the Trail Blazers was marked by his successful efforts to bring the team back to championship contention. He played a crucial role in convincing Allen to purchase the Seahawks, leading the lobbying efforts for a new stadium, and ultimately contributing to the implosion of the iconic Kingdome. Whitsitt's impact extended beyond the sports field, as he played a pivotal role in ushering in a new era of professional football in Seattle.

As the only person to have served as the president and general manager of the Seahawks, Sonics, and Trail Blazers, Whitsitt offers invaluable insights and stories from the glory days of these three beloved teams. In "Game Changer," he shares captivating anecdotes about his trading strategies, missteps, and successful recruitments.

One of the highlights of the book is Whitsitt's prescient recruitment of Shawn Kemp, one of the first straight-to-pro basketball players. However, his second signing of Kemp proved to be one of his worst missteps. Despite these challenges, Whitsitt's unwavering commitment and passion for the sports industry have left an indelible mark on the Pacific Northwest and the NBA.

"Game Changer" is a must-read for sports enthusiasts, fans of the Seahawks, SuperSonics, and Trail Blazers, and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes dynamics of professional sports. Whitsitt's storytelling skills and deep knowledge of the sports industry make this book an engaging and informative read.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781959411260