Michael Jordan is the reason the Chicago Bulls franchise became one of the greatest dynasties in history. With the assistance of stars like Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, MJ played a key role in making the Bulls the most dominant team in the 1990s.
Despite his illustrious career, Coach Bob Knight still criticized his playing style. In what seemed to be a humorous story, in the wake of a tragic moment in the NBA community, NBA fans and enthusiasts remembered when Michael Jordan once clapped back at Bob Knight.
Bob Knight revealed amazing Michael Jordan story
In a remarkable story shared by the late legendary College Basketball coach Bob Knight, during halftime of the 1984 Olympic gold medal game against Spain, he attempted to confront none other than Michael Jordan. With his US team leading by 29 points, Knight entered the locker room with a strategy to inspire his team and set a precedent.
Bob Knight expressed his disappointment Jordan, stating, “I’m going to reprimand Jordan a bit, and the rest of them will fret, ‘If he’s dissatisfied with Jordan, how does he feel about me?'”Knight approached Jordan intending to criticize his lack of setting screens. He asked, “Mike, when on earth are you going to set a screen?” Jordan’s response was swift and confident, as he retorted, “Coach, I believe I’m setting them faster than your eye can catch.”
Despite this fiery exchange, Knight acknowledged Jordan’s exceptional game performance, with Jordan recording 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in just 12 minutes of play. However, Bob Knight also acknowledged Michael Jordan as the best he has ever seen. This story exemplifies Bob Knight’s coaching methodology and his dedication to pushing his players to excel.
Bob Knight passes away at 83
The basketball community will mourn the demise of one of the greatest coaches of all time. According to a report by ESPN, the family announced that the legendary college basketball coach Bob Knight had passed away at the age of 83, surrounded by his loved ones.
Knight had an incredible coaching career and left an irreplaceable legacy on the game. Throughout his 42-year career, Knight coached Indiana to three NCAA titles (1976, 1981, and 1987). His coaching record was 902 wins and 371 losses, showcasing his class.
He won the National Coach of the Year award on four occasions and was also the Big Ten Coach of the Year five times. He led the American Olympic team to gold in 1984 and emphasized the importance of education for his student-athletes. All of these factors contributed to his influence being felt both on and off the court.
His coaching philosophies, especially the man-to-man defense and motion offense, had a lasting impact on the game. Despite his fiery reputation, Knight’s impact on his players was profound. Knight’s legacy will forever be cherished in the world of basketball.
