Drawing from more than 250 interviews to take the first full measure of the Lakers' epic Showtime era, this spectacular account of one of America's greatest sports sagas is jam-packed with colorful characters, vicious rivalries and 1980s-style excess.

Development of a dream. Jack Kent kook ; Of sand dabs and the Marlboro Man ; the unlikely head coach ; Center of complications ; Crash ; West fall ; Picture imperfect -- Dominance. Riled up ; Clark Kent ; Clubbing ; The departed ; Earl ; Virginal ; Worthy of superstardom ; Bring it ; Shattered glass ; Motown ; Good-bye, Cap -- Demise of a dynasty. Undone ; Bates ; Refreshment ; Shock.