In 2009, Michael Lewis — one of the best modern journalists and authors — penned a piece for The New York Times Magazine entitled, “The No-Stats All-Star,” focused on then Houston Rocket Shane Battier and his impact on winning that extends beyond the common box score.
Lewis marveled at the overwhelming positive impact Battier had on his team and the overwhelmingly negative impact he inflicted upon his opponents. Fans loved Battier. Teammates loved Battier. And for the entire 2008-09 season, Battier only averaged 7-5-2 while shooting 41 percent from the field.
A true “no-stats all-star” whose direct impact on winning had to be observed to be believed.