I watched the basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony last night, and it left me with one question, “Has Michael Jordan always been a complete douchebag?” Maybe douchebag isn’t the best word choice, but while players like John Stockton and David Robinson used their inductions to thank their friends, families, coaches, teammates, etc, Jordan used his to blast anyone who he felt ever stood in his way. He called out Bulls GM Jerry Krause, Isiah Thomas, Doug Collins, Magic Johnson, George Gervin, Jeff Van Gundy, Leroy Smith (the guy who beat him out for the Varsity squad sophomore year of high school), his high school coach, John Starks, and Byron Russel. He even called out his kids, stating, “I wouldn’t want to be you guys.”. Nothing feels as good as having you dad imply, “You’ll never be as good as me” on national television.
Why are these people on his shitlist? According to his speech, Jerry Krause didn’t recognize that it was Jordan, himself, who was winning championships. The Bulls organization who helped build those championship teams, had nothing to do with it. As Jordan put it, ““The organization didn’t play with the flu in Utah”. He called out Doug Collins, Pat Riley, and Jeff Van Gundy for comments they had made to or about him 20 years ago. Magic, Isiah, and George Gervin felt his wrath because Jordan felt they tried to keep him from playing in the 1985 all star game. Leroy Smith, and Jordan’s high school coach each got shots for keeping Jordan off the varsity squad for a year. Byron Russel and John Starks got mentioned because they actually thought they could gaurd Michael Jordan. What’s the point of trashing Byron Russel or John Starks? Both of their careers are linked with him because of how bad he made them look on the court. It was all so petty. I’m kind of surprised he didn’t called me out for not buying a pair of Air Jordans from 1995-1998.
It was sad watching the greatest basketball player of all time, and probably the most important athlete of all time air petty grievances with people who had little to do with the bulk of his career. Jordan’s speech was the equivalent to holding someone down and hitting them with their own hands. We get it Michael, you’re competitve. You will use anything and everything as motivation. That’s what made you so great. Everyone you ever proved wrong, knows you proved them wrong. Your 6 championships, 5 MVPs, and all time scoring average record have made that clear to anyone who has ever doubted you. You win. No need to rub it in.
When I was young, I wanted to be like Mike, but if that means turning into a bitter old man who engages in one sided wars, I’m not so sure anymore. Then again, this post could be considered a one sided war, and I’m probably bitter that Jordan’s speech didn’t provide any of the touching stories or displays of humility that are present in most inductees’ speeches. Maybe, I’m already like Mike.
Funny column, yet correct in many ways. Classic.