For many players, winning an MVP award represents the pinnacle of individual success. While this is generally true in most eras of the NBA, the perception surrounding the award hasn't always been as heightened as it is today. A funny story shared by the late Wes Unseld in 2011 highlights this perfectly.
It all began when 'The Oak Tree' returned home from a fishing trip in 1969 and found out that his team, the Washington Bullets, had been trying to reach him. Since they left a message for their star player to call back, he promptly did so.
"I called them, and they said, 'You won most valuable player.' I said, 'Thank you.' They said, 'Okay.' And that was it. I was surprised, but again, it wasn't something you thought about. The award was not like it is today. It wasn't a big media thing," recounted Unseld, per the Washington Post.
The NBA's humble beginnings
The story shared by the 1969 MVP isn't entirely surprising. That's because Unseld was known back then as a true tough guy, recognized for his intimidating presence —it's safe to say he wasn't exactly someone for small talk.
Additionally, his comments about the media landscape, or lack thereof, in the league at that time hold true. The NBA, introduced in 1949, was still in its early years, with just 14 teams and only a handful of superstars. Its popularity was quite limited, both nationally and especially internationally. The smaller fan base also affected marketing, merchandising, and media attention, including television coverage.
This contrasts sharply with today, where discussions about the upcoming MVP, for example, start long before the season even begins.
Related: John Stockton recalled when Isiah Thomas called his dad amidst Dream Team drama: "I don't know if I would be big enough to do that"
MVP at just 23 years old
While it may have happened in a different era, this should not diminish Unseld's MVP title.
Drafted second overall in the 1968 NBA Draft, the Louisville product was instrumental in transforming the Baltimore franchise, leading to a 21-game improvement and their first winning season. During this impressive turnaround, the rookie averaged nearly 14 points and over 18 rebounds per game while demonstrating exceptional defensive skills.
When 'The Oak Tree,' who had just celebrated his 23rd birthday, received the MVP trophy, he became the youngest player to achieve this honor—a record that lasted for several years. This milestone was eventually surpassed in 2011 by Derrick Rose, who won the award at just 22 years and 7 months old, following his third season with the Chicago Bulls.
When the Hall of Fame center was asked shortly after about a younger player breaking his record, he showed that he remained unfazed by the media narratives surrounding the NBA, bringing the story to a close.
"I'm not trying to be coy here with you, but it's not something I think about or ever thought about. I didn't even know it myself," remarked 'The Oak Tree.'
Related: "I realized how strong he was" - Wes Unseld on the bloody accident when Wilt Chamberlain dunked on him
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