For perspective:
NBA Finals Game 1 Blazers v. Sixers (1977)
First year after the merger with the ABA. Julius Erving's first year in Philly. Walton at his peak. 19 year-old Dawkins. Short shorts. No 3-point line. Two officials (who were awful, btw; some things never change). Starting to look a bit more like modern basketball, but I'm struck by how much the 3-point line has opened the game up.
Erving was spectacular, but was played tough by Bob Gross. (Who?). Doug Collins could shoot. George McGinnis was pretty much useless and worthless. Maurice Lucas had him totally intimidated. Bill Walton could've been somebody.
Future NBA Coaches: Doug Collins, Lionel Hollins, Mike Dunleavy
Future NCAA Coaches: Henry Bibby
Fathers of Future NBA players: Joe Bryant (Kobe), Bill Walton (Luke), Mike Dunleavy (Mike Jr.), Henry Bibby (Mike)