Scrutinized for 1 Obsession, Michael Jordan Threw Himself Under the Bus After Ruthless Rivals Struck in 1997

NBA legend Michael Jordan is considered one of the best athletes ever. The 6x NBA champion is idolized by superstars and fans alike. Fans love Jordan’s dominance on the hardwood. However, it was not always smooth sailing for the Chicago Bulls legend. Over the course of his career, MJ had to endure his fair share of criticism from the fans and media like any other professional athlete. Maybe even more given his incredible superstardom. However, Jordan fired back and even threw himself under the bus when his “obsession” was called into question.

It is no secret that Jordan loves golf. The 5x NBA MVP has spent a lot of his time on the golf course perfecting his swing. Furthermore, he has also participated in many celebrity golf tournaments over the years as well.

Michael Jordan was not ready to accept the criticism

As reigning champions, the Chicago Bulls cruised in the 1997 playoffs. In the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat, the Bulls won the first three games comfortably and almost sealed the series. After the game 3 win, MJ and his teammates celebrated the win by smoking cigars and hanging out in South Beach.

They also spent a lot of time on the golf course one day prior to game 4. This time, the Heat came prepared and fought hard. The game was very physical and Scottie Pippen endured a blow to his head. Also, Jordan struggled from the field massively. He missed his first 14 shots. He then bounced back in the fourth quarter making 7 of 13 attempts and almost led the Bulls to a comeback win. However, the Heat held on to an 87-80 win.

After the loss, Jordan’s obsession with golf was termed as the reason behind it. MJ had an interesting response.

“Everyone’s trying to find an excuse for Michael Jordan other than Michael Jordan finding an excuse for himself,” Jordan said according to a report from the Washington Post. “As everyone saw, I finished the game strong, I had live legs, I just didn’t make any shots. If everyone wants to use {golf} as an excuse, be my guest.”

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The 14x NBA All-Star did not mind taking responsibility for his poor outing. However, he was not happy that golf was made the reason behind his uncharacteristic performance.

Michael Jordan’s love for golf

Michael Jordan was known for spending a lot of time on the golf course, even in the middle of a playoff series. This went under the radar whenever Jordan and the Bulls won. He was even celebrated for his ability to dominate his opponents despite the amount of time he spent on golf. However, that was not the case whenever His Airness underperformed. Notably, that was exactly what happened during the 1997 ECF against the Heat. Besides his love for the game, MJ used golf to help him take his focus away from the pressure of playoff basketball. However, it was sometimes overlooked by many.

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