‘He Didn’t Even Break a Smile’- WNBA Sensation Diana Taurasi Recalls Her Meeting With NBA Legend Michael Jordan

Published 08/04/2023, 7:18 PM EDT

Meeting your icon in any sport is always a significant moment. Getting to perform in front of them is even more significant. However, if you choke at that moment, it can lead to a lifetime of regret. But it’s a fact that life goes on, and while the memories remain, the hurt or regret eventually fades away.

Recently, a WNBA player recalled her memorable encounter with one of basketball’s legends, Michael Jordan.

Diana Taurasi recalls her mishap in front of Jordan.

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During a recent online conversation with Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, Taurasi recounted her initial meeting with Jordan. In her own words, she describes, “I was 15 or 16 at the time, and I probably thought I would be getting his shoe anyway. I missed a free throw and then walked towards him. Without even a smile, he said, ‘Next one.’” It was a bit heartbreaking for her at the time, as owning a pair of Jordans was a coveted desire for everyone.

She continues her story, “The following year, I attended as a counsellor and even got a coach’s T-shirt. So, I see Mike, say hello, and the first thing he asks me is how my free throws are doing. He legit remembered it.” This might have been a bit embarrassing for her, with Jordan recalling her free-throw mishap. However, looking at the positive side, Jordan remembered her; he must have seen something in her that left a lasting impression on his mind. Jordan has always been an attentive player, and the small, fundamental details are never overlooked by those destined to become legends.

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Michael Jordan and his iconic shoe lineup

Michael Jordan had built his legacy on and off the court, including his iconic line of shoes. Air Jordan is a global brand known for providing sneakers for both fashion and basketball play. People from all over the world adore Jordan’s pairs, and back when Jordan was on the brink of signing a deal with Nike, it marked a turning point for the Jordan family’s financial situation. The Jordans requested a share from each sale, a demand that initially met resistance from Nike, but they eventually acquiesced. This decision turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Jordan, as his shoe lineup became one of his major revenue streams.

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All-in-all, it was a dream come true for Diana to meet her icon, and Jordan observing her skills is even more precious than she could have realized. Diana went on to become a great WNBA player, and she didn’t miss many free throws after that one mishap in front of Jordan.

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Written by:

Naman Singh is a writer at EssentiallySports who covers Sports Viral Moments. His arsenal is well-rounded and he surely knows how to keep the readers engaged. Naman is interested in covering live events, as well as the off-court drama that comes with it.

Edited by:

Priyadarshini Ajay

‘He Didn’t Even Break a Smile’- WNBA Sensation Diana Taurasi Recalls Her Meeting With NBA Legend Michael Jordan

Diana Taurasi recalls her mishap in front of Jordan.

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Michael Jordan and his iconic shoe lineup