From Set Shot to Slam Dunk

Identified as an ""avid'' fan, Salzberg is probably unique in considering the 1940s, '50s and '60s the ``glory'' days of U.S. basketballmost think the sport reached its zenith only in the past decade. Nevertheless, this collection of interviews with players from that era is a bit of nostalgia that will intrigue cage fans (there is one account from a player who actually participated in a game conducted in a cage). Onetime stars Ed Macauley, Dolph Schayes, Jerry West and others discuss the game and athletes then and now, and almost to a man they find the contests faster-moving and more exciting, the participants quicker, stronger and more talented than formerly. There are also absorbing observations on players from George Mikan to Wilt Chamberlain and coaches from Honey Russell to Red Auerbach. Photos not seen by PW. (September 9)