From Hang Time to Prime Time

Sean interviews author Pete Croatto, whose book From Hang Time to Prime Time: Business, Entertainment and the Birth of the Modern-Day NBA chronicles the ascent of our favorite league from the turbulent 1970s, through the bright lights of the Bird/Magic/Jordan era to the edge of the 1990s. Featuring recollections from NBA legends and the unsung heroes behind the sport's explosion, Hang Time is an engaging read for any fan of the era or hoops head wanting to learn more about the history of the game. Pete's also a dad and a fellow member of the Over 30 League. We talk about writing a 300-plus page non-fiction book with a toddler in your midst (1:45), Pete gives me a pep talk on freelancing (4:35), talks about getting into Grantland (5:57) and realizing "there's a book here" (9:38). We discuss the iconic designs of Salem Sportswear (11:29), sharing basketball with our kids (14:24), the NBA on VHS and what hooked him on the game (15:45), primitive hoops video games (22:16), the rise of NBA All-Star Weekend (24:51), the people and dynamics behind the explosion of the sport (29:23), TV's role in growing the game (32:21), and the evolution of the on-court product (37:22). Thanks, Pete - it was fun! You can check out his book here.