Imagine trying to replicate one of Michael Jordan’s legendary dunks—the gravity-defying moments that left defenders frozen and fans breathless. Recall Jordan’s 1988 free-throw line dunk? Or his Baseline Reverse over the Lakers in ’91? Or perhaps that iconic free-throw line slam from the 1988 Dunk Contest, arm stretched like a comic book hero mid-flight. Now imagine falling flat on your face while attempting it. That’s exactly the scene when an NFL legend tried to channel his inner MJ and failed spectacularly. But here’s the twist—Jordan didn’t scoff. Instead, the GOAT acknowledged the effort, laughed with him, and even offered advice.

Though undersized, Drew Brees amassed over 80,000 career passing yards across 20 seasons. Thirteen Pro Bowls later, a Comeback Player of the Year nod, two Offensive Player of the Year awards, and a Super Bowl MVP? Yeah, he did all that. And now? The former Saints QB swapped the playbook for the broadcast booth.

On The Analysis Show, Brees revealed his behind-the-scenes chat with Michael Jordan. What really stuck with Brees wasn’t just MJ’s insane talent, but how hard he worked. He said, “One guy, who I’ve had a chance to be around and talk through those times, was Michael Jordan. As great a basketball player as he was and certainly as talented as he was, you always just got the impression he was just working harder than everybody.” It’s that grind, that hustle behind the scenes, that kept MJ on top.

Curious how Michael Jordan kept clutching when it mattered most, Brees asked him for the secret. MJ replied: “First off, I know my fundamentals is better than everybody else because of the time and effort that I put into them. So that’s never something I’m ever worried about on the court. Like in big moments, all I’m thinking about is how I’m going to get to certain spots on the court to make the shots that I want to make.” For MJ, it was all about nailing the basics, having a crystal-clear vision, and just getting himself exactly where he needed to be. That kind of focus? That’s next-level.

During the 1997 ‘Flu Game,’ Jordan’s mastery of footwork and spacing carried him to 38 points on two sick nights. Battling what turned out to be food poisoning—not the flu, thanks to some bad hotel pizza, MJ was visibly drained, even needing fluids and painkillers at halftime. Yet, it was his rock-solid fundamentals and unshakable confidence that carried him through.. It was a masterclass in how great basics and belief in yourself can push you past any limit.

Was Brees the NFL’s Michael Jordan?

Keenan McCardell, who played alongside Drew Brees back in 2004-05, once painted a vivid picture of just how special Brees is. He compared his work ethic to none other than Michael Jordan. Keenan recalled while talking to ESPN, “He was unbelievably prepared all the time,” and talked about how Brees would stay after practice just to make sure everyone was on the same page. He’d close his eyes during catch drills, trusting feel over sight, just like MJ in warmups. It’s that kind of dedication and focus that reminds people of MJ’s legendary drive.

In a November 2011 MNF clash vs. the Giants, Brees tallied 363 passing yards and four TDs. Emboldened by MJ’s ethos, he attempted a cradle dunk end zone celebration. Inspired by teammate Jimmy Graham’s basketball roots and love for dunking, Brees tried to bring a bit of MJ’s magic to the field. The result? Well, it didn’t exactly soar. “I was a little more tired than I thought I would be,” Brees admitted to ESPN. “I didn’t quite get the oomph, and I turned it into more of a finger roll. I apologize to Michael Jordan.” Instead of an epic celebration, it was a humble, funny moment that showed even the best sometimes miss the mark.

But let’s not let that missed dunk steal the spotlight—because Brees was flat-out incredible that night. His teammates were in awe. Zach Strief even said, “I can honestly say I’ve never seen Drew Brees have a bad game.” Just like MJ on the court, Brees keeps setting the bar higher. Because greatness is not about being perfect every play—it’s about the grind, the leadership, and making everyone around you better.

What began as a gimmicky celebration evolved into a full-circle lesson: greatness hides in the grind no one sees. For Brees, that one lesson from MJ—master the fundamentals—became a lifelong playbook. Greatness recognizes greatness, not just in highlight reels, but in the work no one sees.