Michael Jordan is one of the greatest players in NBA history. The man has won everything imaginable as a basketball player.
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He has six NBA Championships, five MVPs, six Finals MVPs, DPOY, and an Olympic Gold Medal. A huge amount of success, which is in stark contrast to his career as a “general manager” with the Charlotte Hornets.
That’s right, while he was a brilliant player, as the owner of the Hornets, MJ has struggled. His draft picks in particular have always been hit or miss. Although, one hit was Kemba Walker.
Michael Jordan traded up for Kemba Walker because he liked his playing style
The 2011 NBA Draft was a big deal for the Charlotte Hornets. It was the year they selected possibly the greatest player in their franchise’s history, Kemba Walker.
The 6’0″ guard was selected with the ninth overall pick after Michael Jordan traded up to get him. His Airness was greatly impressed by Walker’s skill.
“They traded up for me, and everybody was saying that MJ did it and he wanted me,” said Kemba. “I ain’t gonna lie, that sh*t was crazy, like “Black Jesus” on the phone. I’m like, “Damn I’m about to play for MJ”, and then when I get there everybody is like, “MJ wanted you, he really wanted you! Cause of the way you play!”. I was like, “Damn!”.
In hindsight, the pick is questionable. After all, the Hornets passed up on both Kawhi Leonard and Klay Thompson for Walker. But, Kemba is still the all-time top scorer for the team. Although, he could be surpassed by another one of MJ’s best selections.
MJ hit a home run with a point guard selection yet again when he drafted LaMelo Ball in 2020
As mentioned earlier, Michael Jordan’s draft selections are always hit or miss. But, based on his track record, he might have a flair for picking up point guards. After all, he selected a heck of a successor to Kemba Walker when he drafted LaMelo Ball with the third overall pick in 2020.
LaMelo could surpass Kemba in the coming years. Safe to say that MJ will be watching his career closely.
