True Extent of Michael Jordan’s Influence on Court Revealed by Former Employee: “He’s Going to…”
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SAN FRANCISCO – OCTOBER 10: U.S. Team assistant Michael Jordan watches the action on #15 during the third round morning foursome matches for The Presidents Cup at Harding Park Golf Club on October 10, 2009 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Chris Condon/PGA TOUR)
During his time in the league, Michael Jordan has taken on many avatars. Whether it was a phenomenal rookie, scoring machine, unproven for victory, championship winner, and eventually, GOAT. However, one role he had in the league was not directly on the hardwood. Instead, it was the 6’6″ Mike sitting on the sidelines, deciding the fate of the Charlotte Hornets. As owner/GM, Jordan had a ton of influence on the product being put out. But, more than just shaping the roster, the 6x NBA Champion exudes his typical passionate fire too.
On an appearance on The Podcast P with Paul George, current Hornet and a signee from Michael’s era, Gordon Hayward, went in depth about operating under the Chicago Bulls legend. Describing the experience as “nerve-racking”, Hayward would reveal just how involved his former owner would get on the court.
Gordon Hayward on Michael Jordan's presence at Hornets games:
"He'll let the refs have it, he's going to get after the refs."
"When he does sit, and it's right there on the bench, he's yelling… it's definitely nerve-racking with him sitting there. I mean, this is the GOAT."… https://t.co/Rkcd5T3guI pic.twitter.com/9mwP8ZVW68
— /r/CharlotteHornets (@HornetsReddit) January 1, 2024
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At the team’s games, the 5x NBA MVP is constantly displaying his competitiveness for the sport. “He’ll let the refs have it. He’s going to get after the refs”. The Hall of Famer’s sheer presence courtside, usually next to the team bench, also turns nerve-racking for the team at times.
However, that fire can set the perfect example for teammates. Almost 20 years after retiring, the passion, fire, and competitiveness toward the game remain unchanged. Perhaps that can serve as a hallmark for what the current Hornets try to emulate.
Watch This Story: Throwback To 1982 When 19-Year-Old Michael Jordan Met “The King” Richard Petty
Under a new core of LaMelo Ball, “Paul George is my GOAT” Brandon Miller, and others, their future might be as bright as it has ever been. From veterans like Terry Rozier and the aforementioned Hayward, the youngsters could learn valuable lessons.
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Michael Jordan and the Buzz City future
The remnants of the Michael Jordan era are clear in the present-day Hornets. Whether it is veterans, rookies, or their young core, everyone is a direct result of an MJ move. But, for the first time in a long while, the future looks bright in Buzz City.
Whether it be their youthful exuberance or veteran stability, the team has both in spades. Even though the results aren’t apparent immediately, the potential is visible. If the vision Jordan had for the team comes to light, where could they end up?
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Written by:
Edited by:
Saumya Khanduja