Prior to his Hall of Fame induction, San Antonio Spurs legend, Tony Parker sat down with Malika Andrews for an interview. In the interview, he discussed his career in depth and spoke about his choices during his 20 seasons in the NBA. One of the topics of discussion was his move to the Charlotte Hornets. Many wondered why he took a $5,000,000 pay package to move to North Carolina. And, as he explained to Andrews, he made the move because he wanted to spend time with his idol, Michael Jordan.
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Parker spent 17 seasons in San Antonio, where he found so much success. He won four rings with the team and was even crowned Finals MVP for his performances in the 2007 NBA Finals. A legend through and through. But, he chose to play his final season in the NBA with the Hornets. A decision that had more to do with his personal ambitions than with his legacy as a Spurs legend.
Tony Parker reveals he joined the Charlotte Hornets so that he could spend time with his hero Michael Jordan
Tony Parker is undoubtedly one of the greatest players to ever dawn a San Antonio Spurs jersey. Spending 17 years in Alamo City, Parker is grateful for many things, including the bonds he created with his coach, Gregg Popovich, and his teammates. Together, they created history, forming a dynasty that gave numerous opposing teams nightmares.
However, in 2018, the Parisian Torpedo made the decision to switch the black and silver of San Antonio for the blue and purple of the Charlotte Hornets. The move left many bewildered, as it was common knowledge that Parker was in his twilight years. As such, it was expected of him to finish his career as a Spurs lifer.
But, as he revealed to Malika Andrews, his decision to play for the Hornets had little to do with his time as a Spur. He chose to move to North Carolina because he wanted to spend time with his idol, Michael Jordan.
“I did it because I wanted to spend time with my idol you know. I was excited you know to go. It was like a full circle to me. It is said in the US, you should never meet your idol. But, for me it was different. It was awesome to spend some time with Michael Jordan.”
The move also gave him the opportunity to hang out and mentor his “younger brother”, fellow Frenchman, Nicolas Batum. Ultimately, Parker ended up spending just one season in Charlotte. And now, as of 2023, his greatness is acknowledged in the Hall of Fame.
Parker is concerned for the Spurs’ newest French star Victor Wembanyama
Recently, the San Antonio Spurs welcomed a new French star into their ranks. Hailed as a future great, Victor Wembanyama was selected first overall by San Antonio. Many believe he has Michael Jordan and LeBron James levels of potential and could even go down as the greatest of all time. However, these expectations concern Tony Parker.
When asked about his fellow countryman, Parker revealed he is worried for Wemby. He believes that the expectations people have of the 19-year-old are crazy and could even hamper his career. After all, there have been plenty of stars with great potential who have suffered because of expectations.
The city of San Antonio has big expectations for Victor Wembanyama.https://t.co/GegaeVtSJn
— CNN (@CNN) June 25, 2023
Parker’s concerns are understandable, but there is nothing more that he can do. Hopefully, Wemby lives up to the weight of expectation and turns out to be a Spurs legend just like Tony.
