“Michael Jordan can go to another level anytime he wants to”: When Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and James Worthy termed the GOAT as “the greatest” even before he turned 23-years-old

Advait Jajodia | 28/12/2021
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Before Michael Jordan started his third campaign as an NBA professional, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and James Worthy had some huge compliments for the Bulls legend.

Michael Jordan is easily one of the greatest players the league has ever witnessed. Apart from being one of the most impactful players, Mike was considered a basketball god. Till today, fans rave about his insane gameplay and achievements.

It was because of Michael that the Chicago Bulls franchise is one of the greatest dynasties in history. Of course, with the help from stars like Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, MJ helped the Bulls be the most dominant team in the 1990s. Winning two successful three-peats, finishing a season with a flawless 72-10 record, there was virtually nothing that the Bulls hadn’t achieved because of their leader.

With 14 All-Star appearances, 10 Scoring titles, 11 All-NBA selections, 6 NBA championships, 6 Finals MVP, and 5 league MVPs under his belt, MJ has one of the most decorated resumes in NBA history to rightfully claim the GOAT title.

Also Read: NBA Twitter explodes as the Bulls’ pair achieve a rare franchise feat last attained by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen

“Michael Jordan is the most talented player in the NBA”: Larry Bird back in 1986

It didn’t take Mike long enough to dominate the league when he stepped on the hardwood. In fact, in only his first season, as a young 21-year-old, His Airness torched the league night in and night out, averaging an incredible 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists.

However, early on in his second season, Jordan suffered a fractured bone in his left foot. He ended up playing only 18 games in that season. Despite being sidelined for 64 games the previous season, entering the 1986-1987 campaign, several NBA stars still considered MJ as “the greatest player in the game”.

James Worthy spoke about his UNC teammate:

“I knew he would be a good ballplayer, but I didn’t think he would come right in and dominate the game like he had thus far.”

Larry Bird and Magic Johnson too gave a young Air Jordan some huge praises.

“He’s a type of player that can go to another level anytime he wants to,” Bird said about Jordan. “Probably the greatest player in the game right now.”

“Michael Jordan is the most talented player in the NBA,” Magic said. “By far.”

Also Read: The Grizzlies superstar effortlessly ‘out-clutched’ D-Book in Suns loss

Post Edited By: Advait Jajodia
James Worthy Larry Bird Magic Johnson Michael Jordan

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Advait Jajodia

Advait Jajodia, an NBA and Tennis journalist for The SportsRush, has had a passion for both sports for over a decade. His admiration for Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, and Rafael Nadal pushed him to gain a profound understanding of the sports. With a background as a multi-sport athlete, Advait uses his experience on the hardwood and the court to offer insightful analysis. Over four years of dedicated sports journalism has equipped the 22-year-old with a unique perspective, reflected in his prolific portfolio of 4,700+ articles.

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