Rapper Jay Z Got Jamal Crawford Addicted to His New Routine With Just 1 Phone Call

Former Los Angeles Clippers star Jamal Crawford is no stranger to legendary company. But long before he became a 3x NBA Sixth Man of the Year, Crawford was already catching the attention of one of the greatest to ever play the game—Michael Jordan. Known for his dazzling dribbling skills, Crawford found himself regularly invited to Jordan’s exclusive pick-up games. It was in these games that Crawford’s journey took an unexpected turn, leading him to a fateful encounter with one of the most iconic figures in hip-hop: Jay-Z, and how HOV got him addicted to a routine.

Fast forward to a recent episode of The Underground Lounge podcast, where Crawford shared this memorable story with co-hosts Lou Williams and Spank Horton. The conversation naturally veered toward Jay-Z, and Crawford recalled how he mustered the courage to ask MJ for a favor. “I got so tight with Michael Jordan,” Crawford said. “I’m like, ‘Man, I want to meet Jay-Z.’” That wish was granted sooner than expected.

During one of their pick-up games, Jordan called in a favor, and Crawford found himself face-to-face with the rap mogul. “He set it up, and I met him,” Crawford reminisced, marking the start of an enduring friendship.

Eager to make an impression, Crawford knew he had to bring his A-game. “I could see his face, like he’s hearing some music, like ‘Damn, this young boy is nice,’” Crawford recalled. The pressure was on, but he relished the challenge, pushing himself even harder on the court. Although Crawford didn’t divulge Jay-Z’s immediate reaction, it was clear that the young player had left his mark.

Soon after, while at Reebok, Crawford received another call. This time, the stakes were higher. “I need you at the Rucker,” Jay-Z told him, with one crucial caveat: “We cannot lose.” Crawford, eager to prove himself again, agreed and brought Eddie Curry along for what was supposed to be a one-time event. However, the thrill of these games turned into an addiction for Crawford, leading to many more unforgettable sessions at the “playground“.

Yet, there was a deeper reason why Jay-Z accepted MJ’s invitation that day. It wasn’t just Crawford’s unparalleled talent that impressed the rapper; it was his discipline. Nonetheless, Crawford’s luck wouldn’t run out then as he continued playing with his idol.

Jamal Crawford revealed the unbelievable experience of playing pick-up games with Michael Jordan

In a recent episode of The Pivot Podcast, Jamal Crawford opened up about the unforgettable summers he spent playing pick-up games with Michael Jordan. Reflecting on those intense sessions, Crawford shared, “We played together and we never lost. We played against everybody. Penny Hardaway, Mike Finley, Tim Hardaway, Antoine Walker, Paul Pierce, everybody that came through Chicago. It was like that.” But there was something else that set these games apart—Jordan had referees at a pick-up game!

But the surprises didn’t stop there. Crawford went on to describe how the pick-up games evolved into something even more surreal. “And then it got to a point through summer. You got Jay-Z and Beyoncé sitting courtside. At a pick-up run! Bro just watching. This is Jordan!”

Crawford’s awe was palpable as he painted a picture of the sheer influence and star power that Jordan commanded. Of course, these experiences were far from ordinary, and they highlighted just how “cold” MJ truly was, as Crawford put it.

“Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.”