Michael Jordan. The name itself evokes images of gravity-defying dunks, impossible fadeaway jumpers, and a competitive fire that burned brighter than any other. Fans and players alike were left speechless by his dominance on the court, and his highlight reels still dominate the internet today. But beyond the dazzling skills and athletic prowess, lie countless untold stories about the man behind the legend.
A Night of Cards and a Day of Domination
Mark Jackson, speaking on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast, shared a tale from his rookie year in 1988.
Jackson, then playing for the New York Knicks, received a call from Michael Jordan the night before a game against the Chicago Bulls. Jordan, known for his love of gambling, invited Jackson over for a night of card games. Jackson, knowing he was going to be benched for the game, accepted the invitation. He figured he would keep Jordan up all night, perhaps giving his team a slight edge in the upcoming matchup.
"So, I go into the city, go to Mike’s room, play cards," Jackson recalled, "I’m not playing, I know I’m benched.
So, I’m playing cards, I’m doing my job, I’m gonna keep him up all night.” The night stretched into the early hours of the morning. The card games continued, fueled by laughter, trash talk, and the relentless click of chips.
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