Despite Being Born In New York, Michael Jordan Claimed He Didn’t Care Which Team Drafted Him

In 1984, Michael Jordan was drafted by the Chicago Bulls with the third overall pick. Both the Rockets and the Trailblazers decided to pass on him. In a 2005 interview with the Cigar Aficionado, he revealed he never had a preference.

MJ sat down with Marvin R. Shaken, the publisher of the Cigar Aficionado. While discussing his career extensively, the two began discussing the topic of NBA teams. In particular, the two spoke about what teams he would have preferred to play for. But, to his surprise, Jordan claimed he was just happy to be drafted.

Shaken then jokingly reminded His Airness that he was born in the great city of New York. And, after they shared a laugh, Jordan dismissed such notions. He commented that he was excited about entering the NBA, and even suggested that the New York Knicks were nowhere in the picture when the Draft rolled around.

Shaken: “Did you have a preference for which city you wanted to play in?”

Jordan: “Not really. At that time, I just wanted to be drafted.”

Shaken: “You were born in Brooklyn, New York. I just want to remind you.”

Jordan: “I don’t think New York was in the picture. I don’t think they had a pick that year. But at that time, you just want to get in the league. I didn’t watch much pro basketball until I got into college, so I just wanted to play in the NBA.”

It certainly would have been quite the twist in fate if Jordan ended up on the Knicks. After all, over the course of his 14 years in the NBA, the city of New York grew to hate him, as they formed an intense rivalry with the Chicago Bulls.

Michael Jordan and the Bulls were heated rivals with the Knicks for years

The 1990s were dominated by one team and one team only, the Chicago Bulls. Led by Michael Jordan, the Bulls were easily the best team in the Eastern Conference. But, if there was one team that challenged them on a consistent basis, it was the New York Knicks. With Patrick Ewing on the team, they tried to foil the Bulls on several occasions.

Unfortunately, the greatness of His Airness proved too much for them, as he had a 19-8 record against them in the Playoffs. Making him and the Bulls one of their most hated rivals.

It’s safe to say, the Knicks and their fanbase were happy to see Jordan retire for good in 2003. There are just too many bad memories for them associated with him.