Collegiate sports are a high-pressure environment. Teenagers come under heavy scrutiny for their performances or lack thereof, and often, how a youngster handles themselves can lead to even more criticism. That’s why it helps to take a page out of the old Michael Jordan book occasionally. A Native American scholar-athlete from Dillon did just that. The young quarterback defended criticism by drawing a parallel between his relationship with his coach to Michael Jordan’s relationship with his college coach Dean Smith on Twitter.

Additionally, he added his firm conviction that his performance in the field would successfully silence his critics as Michael Jordan did.

High-school quarterback claps back at critics with MJ reference

Josiah Oxendine is aware of the criticism, but it doesn’t affect him; he is focused on becoming the best player. Josiah, a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft Class, has faced criticism for his off-field behavior and lack of leadership on the court. He has the highest regard for his coach and has compared him to Dean Smith. Oxendine stated that he learned a lot from him and will not disappoint his mentor.

“My coach is like Dean Smith to me,” the QB said. “He believes in me, and he knows that I’m going to make him proud. I’m not going to let him down.”

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Josiah also revealed that MJ desired more scoring chances during his time coaching under Dean Smith. Whereas Coach Smith developed other parts of MJ’s game and turned him into a more complete player.

Josiah’s coach expressed his thoughts on the young prodigy “He’s a mature young man…He knows that he’s not perfect, but he’s working hard to be the best player he can be. I’m confident that he’s going to have a great career.”

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This leads to the question, did Dean Smith do the same for the six-time NBA champion?

Did Dean Smith actually ignite Michael Jordan?

Jordan and Smith shared a deep friendship that lasted many years. Smith, according to Jordan, was one of the most influential individuals in his life. He coached His Airness during his time with the North Carolina Tar Heels.

When Michael Jordan wrapped up his junior year at North Carolina, he had the option of going to the NBA or completing his final year with the Tar Heels. MJ was uncertain but his varsity coach Dean Smith persuaded him to forego his senior year.

Not only that, but Mike’s final shot in college basketball was also orchestrated by the legendary head coach. The teachings of Coach Dean Smith are well known in North Carolina. Even Jordan cannot be compared to Dean Smith’s legendary status in the state.

The talented college quarterback is sure to draw attention when he compares himself to this iconic player-coach pairing. What do you think of his bold tweet?

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