Isiah Thomas said Grant Hill was meant to replace Michael Jordan as the face of the NBA

After winning his sixth championship and Finals MVP in 1998, Michael Jordan’s decision to retire forced the NBA to search for a new leading figure. While there were plenty of budding players on the horizon, Isiah Thomas revealed that then-Detroit Pistons small forward - Grant Hill was expected to step into the spotlight as the league’s newest face.

Was Grant Hill that good?

Following the Chicago Bulls’ triumph over the Bad Boys Pistons in 1991, the franchise faced challenges in returning to its former championship stature. As seasoned stars faded away, the Pistons embarked on a new era by drafting Duke stud - Hill with the 3rd overall pick.

Moreover, his impressive senior year, where he averaged 17.4 points, led to him winning accolades like two-time All-American and the ACC Player of the Year in 1994.

For those who harbored any doubts about G-Money’s two-way prowess, playmaking ability, exceptional athleticism, or ability to be dominant around the rim, he swiftly silenced them right away. Not only did he win the Rookie of the Year award, but he also earned an All-Star nod after averaging 19.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, proving his worth on both ends of the floor.

Furthermore, by the time MJ retired from the NBA, Hill had already accumulated four All-Star appearances, three All-NBA team selections, and was a top-10 MVP contender on three occasions.

Isiah Thomas knew Hill had what it took to be the best

Zeke, who himself was one of the most unappreciated yet hard-nosed players of his era, saw Hill as one destined to take the mantle, as he had relentless passion and talent to be the best in the league.

In an episode of NBA Open Court, he openly admitted feeling that Mr. Nice seemed poised to assume the role.

"When Jordan was retiring and Grant Hill was coming into the league, we were talking about passing the mantle to," Thomas said . "We talkin' about a guy like you carrying the league."

With the new age and century on the horizon, Hill’s fast-offensive pace, crossovers, and knack for dunking on taller centers could have been the talk of the town. However, ankle injuries shattered his career trajectory, rendering him one of the biggest ‘what ifs’ in NBA lore.

Nonetheless, Thomas’ revelation only provides a glimpse into the talent and domination Hill showcased during the early years of his career.

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