The rise of Michael Jordan as a basketball phenomenon wasn't met with universal acclaim. While fans around the world were captivated by his athleticism and charisma, some veterans of the game, particularly those who had held the mantle of "greatest" before him, felt a sense of unease. One such legend was Wilt Chamberlain, a man whose name was synonymous with dominance and record-breaking feats.
Chamberlain's Initial Resistance to Jordan's Rise
Wilt Chamberlain, with his imposing stature and unmatched scoring prowess, had long been considered the undisputed king of basketball.
His records, including the seemingly untouchable 100-point game, were a testament to his unparalleled skill. So when Michael Jordan began his ascent to superstardom, Chamberlain saw it as a challenge to his legacy.
He wasn't shy about expressing his skepticism. In interviews, Chamberlain would often downplay Jordan's accomplishments, suggesting that he hadn't yet reached the level where the game itself had to adapt to stop him. He famously said, "Michael, until you are so great that they are changing the game to stop your greatness, I don’t think you have the right to make that accolade in that particular way.
" This statement, dripping with a mix of pride and apprehension, revealed the emotional turmoil Jordan’s meteoric rise had ignited within the heart of a legend.
The article is not finished. Click on the next page to continue.
The article is not finished. Click on the next page to continue.
Next page
