JOIN OUR WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Throwback: Michael Jordan Once Explained How He Would Guard Himself
Michael Jordan once shared insights on how he would guard himself, shedding light on the strategic mindset of a basketball legend.
Michael Jordan, famously known as one of the most unguardable offensive players in NBA history, left behind a legacy that continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts worldwide. With the impressive achievement of winning 10 NBA scoring titles and holding the highest scoring average in league history at 30.1 points per game, Jordan's offensive prowess was unmatched during his time with the Chicago Bulls.
Even now, two decades after his retirement, he remains fifth on the all-time scoring list with 32,292 career points. Despite being hailed as nearly flawless on the court, Jordan himself admitted that limiting his scoring production was possible, albeit challenging.
In a 2003 interview with the late former Georgetown head coach John Thompson, Jordan shared his insights on how he would guard himself if faced with the dilemma. "I'd make him shoot the jump shot," Jordan revealed. "If he stands out and shoots the jump shot, you've only got one person to worry about, and I don't think he can score 100 points. I don't think."
Jordan's analysis highlights his strategic mindset and understanding of the game. He recognized that by forcing him to rely on his jump shot, opponents could potentially contain his scoring output, as opposed to dealing with his dynamic driving and playmaking abilities that involved multiple teammates.
While Jordan stood out as a phenomenal individual scorer, his success in securing NBA championships came when he learned to trust and involve his teammates. The implementation of the triangle offense by coach Phil Jackson, combined with the contributions of players like Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant, elevated the Bulls to championship success.
Acknowledging the difficulty of defending Jordan alone, it was Joe Dumars of the Detroit Pistons who earned praise from Jordan himself for his exceptional defensive efforts. Dumars' strategic approach and defensive prowess challenged Jordan to enhance his offensive game and find new ways to overcome defensive schemes.
Despite Jordan's advice on forcing him to shoot jump shots, opponents often found it challenging to contain his scoring abilities. Even during critical moments, such as the 1998 Finals matchup against the Utah Jazz, where Jeff Hornacek attempted this strategy, Jordan's dominance prevailed.
Also Read: Throwback: When Michael Jordan Shared the Secret of His Longevity
Latest Articles
