The Best Episodes Written By Rodney Barnes

In the 1970s, Larry Bird rises from small-town college drop-out to the Celtics' top pick. Later, Earvin presses Buss for a better deal.

Despite his record-breaking new contract, Earvin continues to butt heads with his teammates… and his domineering coach.

After making his opinion of Westhead known, Earvin gives Buss an ultimatum – leaving West and Pat to pick up the pieces.

Down two men and with the 1980 NBA Championship on the line, the outnumbered Lakers look to an unlikely source for inspiration. In Philly, Earvin faces off against his role-model-turned-rival Dr. J, while in LA, Haywood grapples with his own worst enemy: himself.

While Chris finds his dad the perfect gift Julius decides he would like to spend Father's Day alone...

Chris receives a challenge to his crown of Asteroids champion. Julius and Rochelle agree to give up some guilty pleasures.

While Buss clashes with West over the coaching staff, Paul calls in a favor from Pat Riley. On the road for the first time, Earvin attempts to reconnect with loved ones in Lansing, before heading to Boston to square off against longtime rival Larry Bird.

When Earvin’s return threatens the Lakers’ new "system," Pat Riley and Jerry West push for a risky trade. While Coach Westhead fights for his team, Jeanie clashes with her brothers, and a melancholy Buss attempts to court a figure from his past.

As the Lakers prepare for their season opener against the Clippers, an increasingly frustrated Kareem begins to doubt his place on the team – allowing Coach McKinney to stoke his growing rivalry with Earvin. Jeanie courts star talent for newly minted cheer squad, the Laker Girls, including a promising young dancer, Paula Abdul.

It's Halloween and Chris is excited when another girl invites him to a costume party. But Caruso has plans for him... Back at home, Julius buys cheap candy for the local kids.

Chris is a hit as a DJ after the neighborhood DJ gets arrested during a party. Chris has a problem when he scratches Rochelle's James Brown album. Julius passes out when he sees a rabbit at a magic show he takes Drew to.

Assistant coach Paul Westhead adds to the Lakers' growing list of problems when he finds himself dealing with a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions. Increasingly courted by corporate sponsors, Earvin consults a newfound financial advisor.

As the Lakers prepare to enter the play-offs, Buss struggles with the team's tenuous coaching situation and his mother's failing health. Later, Haywood receives an ultimatum from Kareem.

After their not-so-fearless leader is taken, our kids spring into action. Alex discovers long-buried secrets about his dad, as the kids uncover new truths about themselves.

As the Lakers continue their successful run, Paul and Pat are forced to reckon with the tenuous nature of their positions. Then, Earvin meets his childhood hero at the NBA All-Star game, where he receives some sage advice. Jessie convinces Jeanie to help shield her father from a devastating truth.

Shadow learns the ways of the dead with the help of Mr. Ibis and Mr. Nancy. In New Orleans, Mad Sweeney introduces Laura to old friends who share their world of voodoo healing. Mr. Wednesday embarks on a road trip with Salim and the Jinn.

The South Georgia State Fair is nearing and Jack’s doing all he can to keep his professional and personal lives intact. Staci has increasing suspicions that Jack played a larger role in Ace’s unexpected Heel-turn. Thomas is acting out in school, the DWL’s forced to audition additional wrestlers, and Jack stays busy warding off Charlie Gully from poaching his best talent, including Ace.

PRIDE tries desperately to clean up their latest mess without involving Jonah. But can they handle this on their own?

Bobby and Dennis find a new hustle to make some cream.