Michael Jordan’s Bulls Are ‘Crying’ Over NBA Norms as Isiah Thomas Debunks Almost 40 year old ‘Insult’

Published 03/12/2024, 1:25 PM EDT

When discussing the all-time greats among diminutive guards, Isiah Thomas is right up there. Thomas, who stood at an innocuous 6-foot-1, was infamous for pounding the hoop fearlessly against players of all sizes.

Isiah Thomas has lately discussed on Draymond Green Show – Isiah Thomas about how even though it was customary to applaud the victorious team in the locker room, MJ’s Chicago Bulls continued to be upset about the walkout insult. Both men are legendary figures in the world of basketball and Chicago.

Thomas explained “In the locker room, you walk out, then you come back and you shake hands and you congratulate them back in the locker room. So when the Boston Celtics walked off the floor on us, we understood the program..”

Article continues below this ad

“See Jones, Jimmy Rogers, a couple of the players. They came into the locker room and they congratulated us. Okay, that’s how it goes. Chicago, they’re the only champion that still cries about somebody not shaking the hand.”

Their Prolonged Rivalry: Isiah Thomas vs. Michael Jordan

Much discussion surrounds the Michael Jordan–Isiah Thomas rivalry, which has persisted since the late ’80s and early ’90s. The 1985 All-Star Game is often believed to have been the beginning of the enmity between the two players. Some think that Thomas plotted to “freeze out” rookie starter Michael Jordan, who ended with just seven points that game.

Others see the rivalry as a territorial battle since both players have deep roots in Chicago, even though Thomas has always disputed the accusations.

Article continues below this ad

Their rivalry intensified when they clashed in the Eastern Conference and over who would make the 1992 Dream Team. It has not budged from Thomas’s conviction that Jordan had a role in his choice to bench him.

During Thomas’s leadership, the 1991 playoff-losing Detroit Pistons avoided shaking hands with the Chicago Bulls, making the situation worse. Even during his Hall of Fame acceptance speech in 2009, Jordan did not remain hesitant to criticize Thomas.

Nevertheless, both sportsmen have openly recognized the other’s basketball skills, despite their disagreements. According to Jordan, Thomas is second only to Magic Johnson among the all-time best point guards.

Article continues below this ad

Michael Jordan’s talent is something that Thomas has acknowledged and shown admiration for. “To me, the best point guard of all time is Magic Johnson, and right behind him is Isiah Thomas. Much as I detest him, I respect his game.”

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Kusum Jangra is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. With over three years of experience as a writer, Kusum’s propensity for descriptive content will make you feel like you’re at the commentator’s table when LeBron James blocked Andre Iguodala. Apart from her expertise in live reporting, she also has a penchant for covering talent contracts and various business deals that NBA superstars are involved in.

Edited by:

Caroline Joseph

Michael Jordan’s Bulls Are ‘Crying’ Over NBA Norms as Isiah Thomas Debunks Almost 40 year old ‘Insult’

Their Prolonged Rivalry: Isiah Thomas vs. Michael Jordan

Trending

Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley’s Absence From “Inside the NBA” Is Due to TNT’s Uncertain Future, as Per Reports

Countdown Starts for Charles Barkley and TNT Crew as Ernie Johnson Makes Heartfelt Confession Before Parting

Carmelo Anthony’s Ex-Wife La La Freaks Out in Shaquille O’Neal’s Presence After 30YO Admirer’s Call

Mother of 5, Dwyane Wade’s Wife Gabrielle Admits Changing Herself Due to 3 Things

Exclusive: Real Motive Behind Shaquille O’Neal’s Attack on Nikola Jokic Revealed by Insider