The 1980s witnessed the rise of one of college basketball’s most iconic and electrifying teams, the University of Houston’s Phi Slama Jama. Coached by the legendary Guy V. Lewis, this powerhouse squad left an indelible mark on the sport, captivating fans with their high-flying dunks, fast-paced style of play, and unmatched athleticism. Comprising an exceptional roster of talent, including future NBA stars Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, Phi Slama Jama became a symbol of basketball excellence, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate in the annals of college basketball history.
Formation of Phi Slama Jama
The journey of Phi Slama Jama began in the late 1970s when Coach Guy V. Lewis recruited a group of exceptionally gifted players to the University of Houston. Lewis, known for his unconventional coaching methods and emphasis on fast-paced, entertaining basketball, sought to build a team that could not only win games but also capture the hearts of basketball enthusiasts nationwide. Little did he know that he was about to create one of the most memorable dynasties in college basketball.
Clyde & Hakeem
At the heart of Phi Slama Jama were two players who would go on to achieve greatness in the NBA – Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. Olajuwon, a towering presence in the paint, showcased exceptional shot-blocking abilities and a refined offensive skill set. Drexler, known for his athleticism, versatility, and soaring dunks, complemented Olajuwon perfectly. Together, they formed a dynamic duo that struck fear into the hearts of opposing teams.
The Phi Slama Jama moniker, coined by a local sportswriter, encapsulated the team’s penchant for high-flying dunks, an element that became synonymous with their playing style. The roster also featured other talented players, including Larry Micheaux, Michael Young, and Reid Gettys, contributing to the team’s overall success.
Dominance on the Court
The 1982-1983 season marked the pinnacle of Phi Slama Jama’s dominance. Led by Olajuwon and Drexler, the team displayed a level of athleticism and skill that few could match. Their run to the NCAA Championship Game captured the imagination of basketball fans across the nation. In the Final Four, the Cougars faced off against Louisville in a thrilling matchup that showcased the best of college basketball. Despite falling short in the championship game against North Carolina State, Phi Slama Jama’s impact on the sport was firmly established.
The following season, Phi Slama Jama returned to the NCAA Tournament with a vengeance. Olajuwon and Drexler led the Cougars to another Final Four appearance, where they faced off against Patrick Ewing and the Georgetown Hoyas. The matchup between Olajuwon and Ewing, two future NBA Hall of Famers, added an extra layer of intrigue to the game. In a hard-fought battle, Georgetown emerged victorious, denying Phi Slama Jama the elusive NCAA title once again.
Legacy of Phi Slama Jama
While Phi Slama Jama fell short of winning a national championship, their impact transcended the confines of the basketball court. The team’s electrifying style of play and highlight-reel dunks brought a new level of excitement to college basketball, attracting fans and leaving a lasting imprint on the sport’s culture.
The individual success of Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler in the NBA further solidified Phi Slama Jama’s legacy. Olajuwon, who went on to become one of the greatest centers in NBA history, showcased the skills honed during his collegiate years with the Cougars. Drexler, known as “Clyde the Glide,” continued his high-flying exploits in the professional ranks, earning his place among the NBA’s all-time greats.
Phi Slama Jama also paved the way for future generations of basketball players. Their style of play, characterized by fast breaks, alley-oops, and tenacious defense, inspired countless players to embrace a more entertaining and dynamic approach to the game. The legacy of Phi Slama Jama can be seen in the evolution of basketball tactics and the continued emphasis on athleticism and highlight-reel plays.
The University of Houston’s Phi Slama Jama basketball team of the 1980s remains a beacon of excellence in the history of college basketball. Led by Coach Guy V. Lewis and fueled by the extraordinary talents of Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, this dynamic squad captured the imagination of fans with their high-flying dunks and fast-paced style of play. While the team fell short of winning a national championship, their impact on the sport’s culture and the careers of its star players is undeniable. Phi Slama Jama’s legacy endures as a testament to the golden era of college basketball and the electrifying moments that defined an unforgettable chapter in the sport’s history.
