![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/gettyimages-80419986-612x612-1.jpg?width=600)
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CHICAGO – JUNE 16: Michael Jordan #23 of the Chicago Bulls celebrates with cigar after winning the 1996 NBA title against the Seattle SuperSonics in Game Six of the 1996 NBA Finals at the United Center on June 16, 1996 in Chicago Iillinois. The Bulls won 87-75. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1996 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/gettyimages-80419986-612x612-1.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
CHICAGO – JUNE 16: Michael Jordan #23 of the Chicago Bulls celebrates with cigar after winning the 1996 NBA title against the Seattle SuperSonics in Game Six of the 1996 NBA Finals at the United Center on June 16, 1996 in Chicago Iillinois. The Bulls won 87-75. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1996 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
Michael Jordan shocked the NBA community by revealing that he smoked massive cigars before every Chicago Bulls home game. Hence, the NBA legend shattered the widely held perception that athletes avoid smoking at all costs during games. In fact, Michael Jordan shared his smoking habits and explained how it helped him to stay relaxed before matches.
Michael Jordan hasn’t been the most media-friendly athlete over the years. In fact, he has been pretty averse to the press for a long time now. Therefore, Jordan’s stories are limited to a select few media appearances.
Michael Jordan smoked a cigar before every home game
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Michael Jordan revealed in an interview with Cigar Aficionado’s Marvin Shanken that he smoked a cigar before every Chicago Bulls home game. It helped him to relax and prepare for the match.
“[Michael Jordan]?he confessed to me that nobody knew, but on the way to every Bulls home game, because he’s in the car for an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and a half“, said Shanken, “he smoked a cigar“.
“Usually a Hoya de Monterrey Double Corona. Which would allow him to relax and be ready for the game“, he added.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Jordan-2-1.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
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PHOENIX – JUNE 20: NBA Commissioner David Stern presents Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls the championship trophy after the Bulls defeated the Phoenix Suns in Game Six of the 1993 NBA Finals on June 20, 1993 at America West Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1993 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
In other words, Michael Jordan used cigars to calm his nerves before a high-pressure matchup. As a result, he was always prepared to deliver under pressure in clutch situations.
This revelation certainly shows that despite the well-known theory that smoking severely impacts an athlete’s health, in the case of Jordan, it seemed to rather help him perform better. Additionally, it proves once again that Jordan was prepared to go to any lengths to give himself even the slightest edge in close encounters.
Michael’s cigar-smoking habits
Most of us remember Michael Jordan smoking cigars to celebrate his championship victories. But apparently, Michael smoked regularly, not only on special occasions. In fact, Shanken reveals the shocking frequency at which the six-time world champion consumed cigars.
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Jordan told Shanken that he smokes six cigars a day while playing golf. However, Shanken knew from personal experience that MJ played golf almost every other day. Therefore, the number of cigars he consumes in a week is truly eye-opening.
“And I know he plays almost every day. And these are not little cigars!”, said Shanken. At the same time, Jordan’s love and passion for cigars intrigued him.
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What is your opinion on Jordan’s smoking habits? Comment below.
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