Gus Williams

Asked to consider the differences between the Seattle SuperSonics’ 1978 version that finished a win shy of a title on its home floor and its 1979 team, Gus Williams’ backcourt running mate settled on three words: determination, hustle, and gusto. Roughly a few minutes into the Sonics’ long-awaited championship rematch against the Washington Bullets, Williams got to work in fusing those traits together for a memorable highlight sequence. Initially holding back as his long-armed teammates work an effective double team against Bob Dandridge, the two-time All-Star, swift in his reflexes, springs out in transition for what appeared to be a wide-open breakaway jam. Unphased, even as Kevin Grevey enters the fray with remarkable defensive hustle, Williams powers through nonetheless for an acrobatic in-traffic flush. Seattle’s 18-point comeback bid in Game One fell just shy on May 20, 1979, despite an elite effort from Williams, who turned in 32 points (on 14-of-24 shooting), six rebounds, four assists, and one block. Undefeated thereafter, though, Seattle — with an undersized, 6-foot-4-and-under backcourt that recorded 50.6 percent of its teams’ Finals points, and no 20-point regular-season scorers — marked itself as one of history’s most unique title winners just days later.

Top Shot Debut

Championship Year