Jamaal “Silk” Wilkes, a Hall of Famer known for his smooth, effortless playing style, remains one of the most underappreciated stars in NBA history. A three-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and a crucial part of the Golden State Warriors’ 1975 title run, Wilkes’ impact on the game extended beyond the stat sheet. His unorthodox yet highly effective jump shot, his defensive tenacity, and his ability to blend seamlessly with superstars like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar made him a key contributor to some of the greatest teams in NBA history.
On Playing for Both the Warriors and Lakers
Having played for two of the most storied franchises in NBA history, Wilkes was uniquely positioned to appreciate the success of both teams in the modern era.
“That is an unfair question!” Wilkes laughed when asked if he rooted for LeBron James on the Lakers despite his ties to the Warriors. “I’ve lived longer down here (Los Angeles), so I tend to root for the Lakers more only for that reason… but I STILL have deep ties to Golden State. Once LeBron became a Laker, I rooted for him.”
Wilkes’ dual allegiance speaks to the pride he takes in his contributions to both franchises. With Golden State, he played a key role in their first NBA championship in California, complementing Rick Barry with his steady scoring and defensive prowess. In Los Angeles, he became an integral piece of the “Showtime” Lakers, seamlessly fitting into a fast-paced, team-oriented system.
On the Impact of Stephen Curry and LeBron James
Having witnessed the evolution of the NBA firsthand, Wilkes recognizes the transformative impact of both Stephen Curry and LeBron James.
“I think they both impacted social media. Steph, I think, with the explosion of the three-point shot, has made the guard even more relevant, quite frankly,” Wilkes explained. “And LeBron, with his multi-skills… he’s just so versatile, and his versatility is really an impact.”
Stephen Curry revolutionized the game with his deep shooting range, changing how teams approach offense. His influence can be seen at every level of basketball, from youth leagues to the NBA, where teams now prioritize three-point shooting over traditional post-play.
LeBron James, on the other hand, redefined what it means to be an all-around player. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ allows him to play and defend multiple positions, making him one of the most complete players in history.
“They’ve both left their mark in different ways,” Wilkes continued. “Steph changed how the game is played, and LeBron showed us what a player with no real weaknesses looks like. They’re both unique in their own way.”
On His Playing Style and Legacy
Despite his low-key demeanor, Wilkes’ game was anything but quiet. His smooth jumper and ability to play off the ball allowed him to thrive alongside dominant teammates, while his defensive capabilities were often overlooked. Wilkes never demanded the spotlight, yet he delivered in the biggest moments—most notably in Game 6 of the 1980 NBA Finals when he scored 37 points to help the Lakers clinch the championship while Magic Johnson famously filled in at center for an injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
“I was never the loudest guy on the court,” Wilkes admitted. “But I believed in playing the right way—being unselfish, taking pride in defense, and always staying ready for the moment.”
His ability to adapt and excel in different systems made him a perfect fit for championship teams. While his game may not have been flashy, it was fundamentally sound, efficient, and deadly effective.
Final Thoughts
Though he played in an era before social media and highlight reels, Jamaal Wilkes’ influence is still felt in the game today. Players who prioritize team basketball, movement without the ball, and defensive versatility carry on his legacy.
“The game has changed, but the fundamentals remain the same,” Wilkes concluded. “Whether it’s Curry’s shooting, LeBron’s versatility, or the way the game continues to evolve, it all comes back to playing smart, unselfish basketball.”
With a career marked by championships, consistency, and quiet brilliance, Wilkes remains a legendary figure in NBA history. His jersey hangs in the rafters of the Lakers’ arena, a testament to his lasting impact on the game. Even as basketball continues to evolve, Wilkes’ silky-smooth contributions will never be forgotten.
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