In a revealing and humorous story, rapper and actor Common shared a memorable encounter on the “7 PM in Brooklyn” podcast with basketball legend Michael Jordan at the 2010 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. This incident provided a glimpse into Jordan’s relentless competitive spirit and his penchant for trash-talking, even outside the professional court.
“Mike is a winner and he ain’t gonna let you like feel like you can do something when you really ain’t doing it. I thought I was doing something cuz I played in the Celebrity Game and I got off in that game.”
“Then I saw him at this party that night, the brand Jordan party and he was like man stick to rapping and acting. He crushed me man, I thought you about to give me some love like yo, he was like man stick to rapping, acting, man. I said damn Mike.” (1:26)
Common, who played in the Celebrity Game, was feeling proud of his performance. Known for his musical and acting talents, Common had always harbored a deep love for basketball. His enthusiasm for the game was evident as he participated in the event, showcasing his skills and contributing significantly to the match.
Following the game, Common attended the Brand Jordan party that night, where he encountered Michael Jordan. Eager for some praise from the basketball icon, Common was instead met with a stark and blunt comment.
Jordan’s remark was not just a playful jab but a testament to his competitive nature and his straightforwardness. Common, although momentarily taken aback, appreciated the comment in the spirit it was intended.
This encounter underscores Jordan’s enduring influence and his characteristic approach to motivation and competition. Even in retirement, Jordan’s reputation as a formidable trash-talker remains intact. His philosophy, as revealed in other instances, is to challenge others and push them to confront reality, regardless of the setting.
For Common, this moment was not just a humbling experience but also a cherished memory of interacting with one of his idols. It encapsulates the essence of Jordan’s persona—uncompromising, direct, and always maintaining his competitive edge.
Such stories contribute to the larger-than-life image of Michael Jordan, solidifying his legacy not just as a basketball legend but as a figure who embodies the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Bow Wow Says Michael Jordan Threw Out His Allen Iverson Shoes
Rapper Bow Wow recently shared a humorous story about an encounter with Michael Jordan that highlights Jordan’s strict brand loyalty. During an appearance on “The Underground Lounge,” Bow Wow recounted how, during a stay at Jordan’s house in Chicago, he wore a pair of Allen Iverson’s Reebok shoes. This choice of footwear did not sit well with the basketball legend, who is known for his fierce allegiance to his own Jordan Brand and Nike.
“So every Scream Tour, when I would go to Chicago, I would stay at the house,” Bow Wow said. “I come through the gate, Marcus is like, ‘Bro, why the f*** are you wearing Reeboks in this house? You know my dad is gonna see that s*** and wild out. It was A.I. The braids. The tats. Chuck is it for me.”
When Bow Wow arrived, Marcus Jordan, Michael’s son, immediately warned him about wearing Reeboks in the house. Despite the warning, Bow Wow went to sleep that night with his Iverson shoes in sight. The next morning, Michael Jordan himself confronted him about the shoes.
Jordan took the Reeboks, made a phone call to his trusted associate John Michael to confirm the size, and then the shoes vanished, never to be seen again. This incident illustrated just how serious Michael Jordan was about maintaining the sanctity of his brand, even within his own home.
Marcus Jordan later confirmed this story, adding weight to Bow Wow’s account. Michael Jordan’s intolerance for competing brands in his household is a testament to his meticulous attention to brand loyalty. This episode also reflects Jordan’s competitive nature, extending beyond the basketball court to his personal life and brand management.
The incident serves as a light-hearted yet telling example of Jordan’s brand-centric mindset. It underscores how deeply his competitive spirit and dedication to his brand permeate all aspects of his life.
For Jordan, maintaining the integrity and exclusivity of the Jordan Brand is paramount, even if it means confiscating a guest’s shoes. This story adds to the lore of Michael Jordan’s legendary competitive streak and his unwavering commitment to his brand’s image and influence.