During the 1990s, as the Chicago Bulls were creating history, there was a rumor that posed a great threat to Michael Jordan’s career. Amidst a flurry of speculations and allegations, a five-time NBA champion player stepped up to show his support. Notably, renowned sports journalist David Aldridge, who was present during that conversation, disclosed the legend’s perspective on the matter.

The ongoing debate about whether Magic Johnson or Jordan is the greatest never truly subsides. However, it’s often overlooked how Johnson once tried to rescue His Airness from a problem.

What did Magic Johnson do to protect Michael Jordan?

In an interview with ‘The Athletic,’ Aldridge discussed the time when Michael Jordan was in the news because of his gambling habits. During this time, various stories began to circulate about Jordan’s alleged gambling addiction, fueling speculation among fans and the media. 

Clearly, the basketball legend was displeased with how the media portrayed him. While Jordan himself refused to engage with the press and was silent, there was a need for someone who could be approached about the situation. The ideal person for this role turned out to be Magic Johnson. After one of Johnson’s practice sessions, members of the media and reporters had the opportunity to speak with the five-time champion. Recognizing the potential repercussions of media scrutiny on a celebrity or athlete, Johnson offered advice to protect his fellow Olympic teammate. As Aldridge recalled, Johnson said, “If y’all don’t ease up, y’all are gonna drive him out of the game.”

However, it is also notable how back in 92-93, the Bulls were all people could think about with their three-peat. However, Jordan was spotted again gambling ahead of Game 2 of the 1993 Eastern Conference Finals.

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Michael Jordan received heat for his gambling habits

In 1992, Michael Jordan found himself immersed in a maelstrom of rumors, because of his involvement in high-stakes gambling. Amidst these speculations, another controversy surfaced, alleging that Jordan owed a substantial sum of $1 million to a golf companion.   This situation unleashed a barrage of criticism aimed at the basketball legend. Complicating matters, Jordan had to confront these issues in a court of law during a 1992 trial involving a golf partner he had frequented in previous years. It was revealed that a $57,000 check Jordan had previously claimed was for building a driving range was, in fact, a repayment for gambling debts incurred during their golf and poker games.

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What do you think about Jordan’s teetering on the edge of an addiction? Let us know in the comments below!