Remember the March 1990 game where Michael Jordan dropped an insane 69 points against the Cavaliers? This level of intensity is what made him different from everyone else. He didn’t just play to win; he played to dominate. Before there was Kobe Bryant, it was Jordan who showed just how far an unrelenting drive could lead one in the NBA. His relentless mindset led to infamous trash-talking moments, both on and off the court. Whether it was against opponents or teammates, Jordan never held back. Reportedly, he once told Rodney McCray, “You’re a loser! You’ve always been a loser!” to break him mentally. The man ended up retiring just at 31! Well, aside from the NBA, Jordan has another interest—golf.
Even after calling it quits in 2003, did you really think Michael Jordan would just relax? Not a chance. Instead of dominating the hardwood, he took his competitive fire to the golf course. And this wasn’t some new hobby—Jordan had been playing for years. Moreover, his love for competition hadn’t faded in the least. Over time, he formed close bonds with pro golfers like Tiger Woods, Rickie Fowler, and Pat Perez. Whether it was a friendly round or a high-stakes betting match, Jordan played to win. And if you know MJ, you know he wasn’t going to stay quiet while doing it. So, did his legendary trash talk follow him to the fairways?
According to Wally Szczerbiak, it absolutely did. “Jordan talked the most trash to me on the golf course. I played golf with Michael a couple of times, and he’s a lot of fun to play golf with,” Wally recalled in a conversation with Dan Patrick. He described playing golf with Jordan as both fun and intense. “But he talks a lot of trash on the golf course,” Wally added, making it clear that Jordan never turned off his competitive nature. Imagine Jordan talking trash even more than his days on the NBA!
Unknown Date; Richfield, OH, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bulls guard (23) Michael Jordan talks to forward (33) Scottie Pippen against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Richfield Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Photo By USA TODAY Sports (c) Copyright USA TODAY Sports
While Wally admired Jordan’s game, he still made sure to mention his own victories. He proudly stated that his Timberwolves never lost to Jordan’s Wizards. “We won. We were 6-0 against the Wizards… beat them every single time.” Although it should be noted that he seems to have remembered incorrectly. In actuality, he had a score of 3-0 over Jordans during the latter’s time with the Wizards. Well, even after taking into account that these victories were in the later part of Jordan’s career, they are something to be bragged about!
When Michael Jordan got trash-talked at by a rookie
Reggie Miller is undeniably the greatest player in Indiana Pacers history. However, his career was shaped by an intense rivalry with none other than Michael Jordan. Their competition started off on the wrong foot, thanks to Miller’s sharp tongue.
As a rookie in 1987, Miller knew he needed something to stand out. “I was only 175, 180 pounds, so I wasn’t the biggest or strongest guy,” he admitted. “I needed to have a little bit of an edge—my mouth was my edge.” Unfortunately, that same mouth got him in trouble early on.
During a preseason game, Miller, excited about the Pacers’ strong start, decided to challenge Jordan. “Michael, who do you think you are? The great Michael Jordan?” he taunted. “That’s right. There’s a new kid in town.” His veteran teammate had encouraged him to talk, but Miller quickly realized he had made a mistake.
May 31, 1998; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Michael Jordan (23), right, is guarded by Indiana Pacers player Reggie Miller (31) in the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Anne Ryan-USA TODAY
Jordan, known for his competitive fire, took it personally. In the second half, he dominated, scoring 40 points to Miller’s two. “End of the game, he ended up with 44, and I ended up with 12,” Miller recalled. As Jordan walked off, he delivered a legendary response: “Be sure and be careful you never talk to Black Jesus like that.”
Miller, humbled, bowed in apology. “I’m so sorry, Black Jesus,” he joked. Despite this rough beginning, their battles became legendary. By 1998, Miller’s Pacers pushed Jordan’s Bulls to the limit in the Eastern Conference Finals. It is certainly a tale that shows why you shouldn’t pick a fight with His Airness.
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