HOOP ATLAS examines how a handful of superstars have reshaped the sport over the past three decades and charted the course to the future of the NBA. Every few years, a special talent emerges and completely shakes up our understanding of how the NBA is supposed to operate. Whether it's their scoring ability, playmaking skills, or shooting prowess, these players and their tactics fundamentally challenge the traditional norms of the game and redefine what it means to be great on the court. For a period of time, these players each become an "Atlas" for the league, carrying the weight of the NBA on their shoulders while also paving the way for the future of the sport. Together, they map out the modern NBA's creation. HOOP ATLAS showcases the "Atlas" players whose influence has revolutionized the league and reframed greatness, from Michael Jordan to LeBron James to Nikola Jokic, with stops along the way for Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, and Steph Curry. As Goldsberry writes, "NBA superstars don't just dominate the league; some of them bend it to their will and transform aspects of gameplay." Revealing the ways in which these players have dramatically impacted the game, Goldsberry does a deep dive into the dominant trends of the modern NBA, including: · an unprecedented increase in offensive efficiency with shooting percentages now higher than ever· the corner 3 revolution which has changed the geography of the court· the rise in talent from abroad and how international stars have imported new moves and elevated gameplay· the recalibration of the center position by hyper-skilled playmaking big men who can do it all