When Michael Jordan Got Insecure and Yelled at Stephen A Smith for Praising 20-Year-Old LeBron James
The remarks Jordan was referring to? LeBron James was described by Smith as potentially the best 20-year-old athlete he has ever seen in a previous statement. Jordan was clearly offended by being compared to a player as young as LeBron, despite the fact that Smith had given him a lot of praise both prior to and following this episode.
With his voice dripping in seriousness and a competitive edge, Jordan delivered the punchline: “Six rings, Stephen A. Can he get one, please?”
Also Read: When Michael Jordan’s Daughter Had to Google Him After Being Told He Was Famous: ‘You Haven’t Met My Father, How Do You Know This?’
Jordan’s competitive edge and protecting his legacy
This quick yet passionate conversation offers a fascinating look into Jordan's mental state. Even though Jordan had won six NBA titles, five MVP awards, and a plethora of other honors, the mention of LeBron James, who had only played two seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers at that point, would have fired up Jordan's competitive spirit.
This particular incident with Smith highlights Jordan's desire to control his legacy. When a young player's potential brilliance was brought up, Jordan reacted defensively, indicating that even as a retired player, he still felt the need to prove his superiority.
Jordan's answer did more than just justify his history; it maintained his place as the greatest. Jordan lived for the top and was a fiercely competitive individual who carried that drive off the court. He believed that even though LeBron was gifted, he hadn't achieved enough to be compared on an equal footing with him. Jordan responded by stating that he believed a person's identity was determined by their accomplishments and that LeBron would not be able to match him in terms of rings until he did.
Also Read: When Michael Jordan Revealed Why He Didn’t Want Remodeled NBA MVP Trophy to Resemble Him
LeBron James’ rising star
LeBron James was still in his early NBA career at the time of this incident, but his promise was obvious to all. LeBron was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers as a first-round pick in 2003, right out of high school, and he immediately rose to the top of the league's playing prospects. He was a once-in-a-generation prospect because of his size, skill set, and basketball IQ, and many already predicted that he would go on to become one of the best players in NBA history.
Smith’s comment about LeBron being the best 20-year-old player he had ever seen was far from controversial. After all, LeBron had already put up impressive numbers and demonstrated a maturity on the court that was rare for someone his age.
Jordan's intense competitiveness was evident throughout his career. He had a reputation for using any perceived slight as motivation, whether it came from a coach's statement, an opponent player's statement, or even anything from the media. This trait persisted in Smith even after his playing career ended, as seen by the Smith incident.
Also Read: Isiah Thomas Calls Out Michael Jordan and Bulls for Mistreatment of Former GM Jerry Krause
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