Stephen Jackson recently shared an eye-opening story during the “All The Smoke x Knuckleheads” live show about how Michael Jordan saved his career by providing him with a Jordan brand contract. Jackson recounted his time playing in Protege shoes, a decision he later regretted due to their poor quality.
“At the time I got my Jordan deal, I was wearing Proteges… it definitely ended my, almost ended my career.”
“The worst decision ever made, I end up breaking my toe and playing in these s***s, right? Three years, I think every quarter and every time out if you wanted to know my moves, you don’t have to watch the tape, just the black marks was all on the court.”
“So you can see everywhere I went right? Walmart a** shoes called Proteges. I get traded to Charlotte where MJ at. I’m planning them s***s, I make a move I come out, I got my toe hanging out the mud. I come to the sideline, I’m sending a ball boy to the back.”
“MJ like ‘Hold on, hold on, what’s that, what is that, like no, no, no, no, bring him some J’s’. Brought me some J’s, he felt so bad for me. Dog, the next day I had a Jordan contract in my locker.” (2:39)
While Jackson was with the Charlotte Bobcats, a team owned by Michael Jordan, he continued wearing Protege shoes. He described them as “Walmart shoes” because of their subpar quality. Jackson even suffered a broken toe while playing in them.
During a game, his toe was visibly protruding from the shoe, illustrating the dire state of his footwear. This incident caught the attention of Michael Jordan, who was shocked and felt bad for Jackson.
Jordan, known for his competitive spirit and high standards, immediately took action. The next day, Jackson found a Jordan brand contract in his locker, marking the beginning of his association with the iconic sneaker line. This intervention not only improved Jackson’s performance by providing him with better-quality shoes but also offered him financial benefits through the endorsement deal.
Jackson’s experience highlights the impact that poor-quality equipment can have on an athlete’s career. The Protege shoes, which he described as the worst decision he ever made, nearly ended his career due to the injury they caused. However, Jordan’s timely intervention with a Jordan brand contract turned things around for Jackson.
This story also underscores the influence and generosity of Michael Jordan. Despite his reputation for being fiercely competitive, Jordan showed compassion for Jackson, understanding the critical role that proper equipment plays in an athlete’s success. By offering Jackson a deal with Jordan Brand, Jordan not only helped a fellow player but also reinforced the high standards associated with his brand.
Jackson’s anecdote serves as a reminder of the importance of quality in sports equipment and the difference that supportive and influential figures can make in an athlete’s career. It also adds another layer to Michael Jordan’s legacy, showcasing his willingness to help others succeed and maintain the integrity of his brand.
47-Year-Old Beat Hornets First Team In Practice
Stephen Jackson once shared an incredible story about a 47-year-old Michael Jordan during his time with the Charlotte Bobcats. Jackson revealed how Jordan, frustrated with the team’s poor performance, decided to step in and play against the first team during practice, demonstrating his enduring competitive spirit and skill.
The incident occurred in 2010, shortly after Jackson joined the Bobcats and helped them make their first playoff appearance. Following a blowout loss, an irate Jordan, who had taken control of the team’s basketball operations in 2006, addressed the team in the locker room, demanding they get their act together. The next day, he showed up at practice to back up his words with action.
Jordan, still deeply competitive despite being well past his playing prime, joined the practice session. He directed his frustration particularly at team leaders like Jackson and Gerald Wallace, challenging their performance and leadership. To everyone’s surprise, Jordan decided to participate actively in the practice, suiting up and playing with the second team.
What happened next was nothing short of remarkable. Jordan, then 47 years old, managed to outperform the Bobcats’ starting unit. Jackson recounted how Jordan took over the spot Gerald Wallace was guarding, scored multiple points, and talked a significant amount of trash during the game.
He even capped off his dominant performance with a dunk, leaving no doubt that he still had the competitive fire and skills that made him a legend.
This story highlights Jordan’s relentless drive and the high standards he maintained, even as an executive. Despite his age and long absence from professional play, Jordan’s ability to compete at such a high level against a team that made the playoffs that season is a testament to his extraordinary talent and mindset.
While Jordan’s tenure as an executive hasn’t seen the same level of success as his playing career, his influence and competitive nature continue to inspire and challenge those around him. This practice session not only served as a wake-up call for the Bobcats but also reinforced the enduring legacy of Michael Jordan as one of the greatest competitors in sports history.