NBA legend Karl Malone is undeniably one of the greatest players to ever grace the league. Befittingly nicknamed the ‘Mailman’, the legend has played 18 seasons in Utah. The 6 feet 9 inches giant was also named one of the NBA?s 50 all-time greatest players. Recently, an old story about the legend has resurfaced that might surprise fans.

The two-time MVP player publicly stated his disappointment over not being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 1985. Ultimately, the Utah Jazz drafted Malone with the 13th pick. And quite clearly, the player was unhappy with his drafting. But did you know when the player came to Utah, he was pranked by his coach into believing that an entire parade was organized in his honor? Intrigued? Here is more about the story.

Karl Malone mistook the Pioneer Day parade for his birthday celebrations!

Even if things turned out great for the player in Utah, the Hall of Famer was upset with the drafting. He even cried during his drafting interview on national TV. But his coach, Frank Layden, who was aware of Malone?s distaste for the state, decided to change his feelings.

A month after the draft, he asked the player to ride on the float in the Parade. Coincidently, Malone?s birthday was on the same day as the state?s Pioneer Day celebration. And he was pranked into thinking that the entire city had gathered for his special day.

He smiled and waved his hands at the crowd like a beauty pageant winner. It was only at the end of the parade that Layden told him the harsh truth.?

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NBA Giants follow the legendary Malone

In a conversation with Isiah Thomas during one of the episodes of ?basketball stories?, Malone revealed how he was happy to find NBA giants such as LeBron James imitate his flashy dunk. The list of imitators also includes current superstar Jayson Tatum.

Malone stands as arguably one of the best scorers of the league and even won the 1997 and 1999 MVPs. He was also a significant player in leading the Jazz to the NBA finals in 1998 and 1999. Unfortunately, the team was defeated by the legendary Chicago Bulls led by none other than Michael Jordan. While numerous off-court controversies are linked to him, he is still remembered as one of the legendary players.?

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