In Focus: Big Game James Worthy

By Andy Gray James Worthy against the Pistons, 1988 (John W. McDonough/SI) During a preseason game between the Celtics and Knicks last week, longtime Boston

By Andy Gray

James Worthy against the Pistons, 1988 (John W. McDonough/SI)

During a preseason game between the Celtics and Knicks last week, longtime Boston announcer Mike Gorman compared forward Jeff Green's play to that of Hall of Famer and three-time NBA champion James Worthy.

The humble Green wasn't fully on board with the comparison, telling ESPN Boston, "I cannot be called the great James Worthy without his permission. I'm dead serious. I want you to put that tweet out. I do not want to be called James Worthy. Get video, I don't care." Worthy quickly responded on Twitter, telling Green, "Much respect."

So now that this issue is settled, let's take a look at Worthy during his days at North Carolina and the Lakers.

North Carolina vs. Virginia, 1981 (Rich Clarkson/SI)

*****

James Worthy and Larry Bird, 1984 (Peter Read Miller/SI)

*****

Magic Johnson and James Worthy, 1985 (Richard Mackson/SI)

*****

James Worthy, 1985 (John W. McDonough/SI)

*****

For more historic sports photos, NBA and otherwise, visit the SI Photo Blog and follow Andy Gray on Twitter.