Even though he was anticipated to excel as a 7’1” center, Sam Bowie’s legacy is primarily defined as the player drafted ahead of Michael Jordan in the ‘84 Draft. While he never reached ‘superstar’ status in the NBA, Bowie’s skills intrigued Jerry Krause, who sought to bring him to the Chicago Bulls.
However, despite several marquee individuals in the organization trying their best to convince the Kentucky prospect to join, MJ displayed the least enthusiasm.
MJ’s message to Bowie
In the book ‘Winning: The Unforgiving Race to Greatness,’ Tim Grover – Jordan’s longtime trainer, recounted a significant moment involving Krause orchestrating a conference call with MJ, coach Phil Jackson, and Scottie Pippen aiming to persuade Sam to join the Bulls.
However, in his trademark style, the six-time Finals MVP bluntly informed Bowie that he should do so if he wanted to go to Chicago. He made it clear that whether Sam came on board or not, the Bulls were destined to win a championship.
“At one point, Bulls management asked him to be part of a conference call with Sam Bowie, who was a free agent at the time,” Grover recalled. “Everyone made their pitch to Sam about why he should join the Bulls and how much the team wanted and needed him in Chicago. Phil made his pitch, along with Jerry Krause and Scottie…and then it was MJ’s turn, ‘Sam, you coming or not? We’re winning with or without you.’ His belief in himself was so powerful he never doubted the outcome.”
Upon hearing Mike’s confident assertions regarding the Bulls’ championship prospects, it came as no surprise that Bowie opted not to join them.
Bowie – The man who initially eclipsed Jordan
In the NBA draft, each team either opts to pick the best player available or picks a player who fills their needs. In the ‘84 Draft, the Portland Trail Blazers identified the need for a big man to replace Bill Walton, who was sent to the Los Angeles Clippers. Additionally, having drafted Clyde Drexler the previous year, the Blazers Jordan saw MJ as an unnecessary addition to their roster.
Despite Bowie’s initial success, including an inclusion in the All-Rookie team, adversity struck swiftly. During his sophomore season, the Pennsylvania native suffered a devastating left tibia injury, which crushed his hopes of becoming one of the most dominant big men in the league.
