It is a given that fame brings criticism. However, the scenario is very different when something bad comes out from within the camp. Even worse, when a teammate talks down on an athlete. This is what Michael Jordan is going through for the last few years. It is rare to see someone question Jordan’s legacy. So when it started pouring in from his ex-teammate, that was a shock for most of us.
Despite being insulted constantly by his Chicago Bulls teammate, His Airness didn’t feel the need to clap back. Recently, another one of his teammates gave his take on the highly debated topic of who was better in their prime, Jordan or Kobe Bryant.
MJ’s teammate on the Kobe Bryant-Michael Jordan debate
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Jordan’s legacy has transcended the regular boundaries of the sport. He is one of the most well-known athletes in the world and definitely the richest. However, there are always people on the other side of the argument, may be with an agenda or just with their opinion. Regardless, the 6x NBA champion sits comfortably on the Mount Rushmore of basketball. One thing which remains constant among all the success and criticism is the debates based on fans’ interests. Arguing over who is the better athlete, either current or all-time, is one of the most integral parts of any sporting culture.
One person to be always pitted against Jordan is the late Black Mamba. MJ’s teammate during the Bulls era, Dennis Rodman recently talked about the comparison between the two greats. Rodman has played with both legends, so his perspective on this barbershop discussion may hold some value.
Rodman said, “I think Michael was more driven to win,” whereas he believes that “Kobe was more like a gymnast.” He further added that since the Bulls legend inspired the 5x NBA champion, he tried to emulate Jordan’s style on the court. Despite not picking a clear side, Rodman let out that he still believes the billionaire was better in his prime.
It’s worth noting that Rodman played alongside Jordan when he was in his prime. Whereas, when he and Kobe teamed up, the late legend was just starting in the league.
Ex-teammate disrespected Michael Jordan
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Despite winning six rings with MJ, Scottie Pippen didn’t think twice before tarnishing his name in public. Pippen has done this on multiple occasions, sometimes going overboard with his takes.
Pippen, when talking about Jordan in the past, said, “I?ve seen Michael Jordan play before I came to play with the Bulls. You guys seen him play. He was a horrible player, he was horrible to play with”.
Although Pippen faced the wrath of fans for his comments, His Airness never felt the need to properly address it.
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