Michael Jordan’s rival’s dislike for him is quite common and understandable. He had competition from some of the most talented players in the league. While the opponent team’s fans hated him, they couldn’t deny the impact Jordan had over the entire sport and its fandom. Jalen Rose is one of them. He might have criticized the 6x NBA champion’s game a few times in the past, but he is also the biggest supporter of the Chicago Bulls’ legend.
The retired NBA player decided to surprise his X followers. Jalen Rose first tweeted praising MJ’s legacy and recommending that the league retire the #23 in his honor. Rose then wrote, “Obviously for MJ. The guy played hoops w/his tongue out & still has the most popular kicks even though he hasn’t played in decades.”
This comment came after he sought fans’ opinions on the idea of retiring jersey no. 23 throughout the league. His rant began with him saying, “#23 should be retired throughout the entire NBA!!! Thoughts??” However, while fans truly appreciate and love Jordan even to this day, some disapproved of it. Soon, Rose was seen hitting back one comment after another to reemphasize Jordan’s impact.
Jalen Rose regards Michael Jordan as a GOAT player
After justifying his statement to the netizens, Rose also emphasized his GOAT player’s dominance off-court. The 14x NBA All-Star was largely responsible for the global attention the NBA garnered in the 90s and enjoys to date. The Chicago Bulls legend dominated in the league with two separate three-peats. If that doesn’t convince you, he also won the Finals MVP titles in each of those years.
Jalen Rose also highlighted how Jordan influenced the entire business scene back in his playing days and continues to do so. His partnership with Nike and the Jordan Brand stands as a shining example of his impact. Taking to his X account, Rose wrote, “Don’t front…you and your kids stay thirsty for Jordan’s. No other athlete has this stranglehold on the public. Bow down.”
The former ESPN analyst probably has a unique way of saying it, but he isn’t entirely wrong about Jordan’s dominance even 21 years after his retirement. However, his suggestion to retire 23 in the league could be up for debate among the experts. Judging by the comments section, it seems like the discussion will last for quite a while. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section below.