Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Michael Phelps – Legendary coach praises what they have in common: ‘Moments that make a difference’

The 58-year-old World Swimming Hall of Fame member is known for developing swimmer Michael Phelps’ extraordinary skills. He is currently the head coach of the Arizona Sun Devils. Recently, he revealed the 28-time Olympic medalist’s remarkable memory and intuition. I discussed Phelps’ ability to recall specific details of a race in Swimming World.

The Arizona head coach also made interesting comparisons between Phelps, basketball icon Michael Jordan and NBA star LeBron James.

Legendary coach identifies common traits among great athletes

Bob Bowman claims he and Phelps can relive some of Phelps’ best Olympic games during the COVID-19 pandemic. They watched these events together, giving them a unique perspective on Phelps’ career. They noticed that some games were more enjoyable to watch than others. So, in an interview with Swimming World, publisher Jack Hallahan asked Bowman: “Phelps remembers the game as well as LeBron James remembers the details of a basketball game years ago?“

Bowman gave a good answer to this. “I think he’s definitely a scholar” Bowman said of Phelps. “He’s a lot like Michael (Jordan) in that he remembers specific details, key moments“. Bowman then provided an illustrative case from the Rio 2016 Olympics, specifically the 200m individual medley final. Phelps confidently told Bowman, “After three, I will breathe and see where (Thiago) Pereira is.”

True to his word, Phelps made history by winning the gold medal again. He became the first athlete in history to win the same event in four consecutive Olympic Games. This extraordinary level of detail and strategic memory made Phelps stand out in swimming competitions. However, it also bears a fascinating resemblance to the iconic Michael Jordan, who was known for his uncanny memory of important events in basketball games. Another basketball legend, LeBron James, is known for his ability to recall minute details from his career. This shows his deep learning and insight into the game beyond athletic ability.

How did Michael Phelps meet Bowman?

A key event behind Michael Phelps’ great swimming career was his meeting coach Bob Bowman. The meeting would shape the life of the most decorated Olympian of all time, who won 28 Olympic medals, including 23 gold. Phelps met Cathy Lears when he was seven at a skills clinic at the North Baltimore Aquatic Club. Bowman, the veteran coach, praised Phelps’ abilities as he comes from a family of swimmers. Seeing Michael’s promise, Bowman continued to watch his progress in the water.

In 1997, he contacted Phelps’ parents and made a bold prediction. Their son has the potential to become a swimming star and make the 2000 Olympics. Despite initial misgivings, Bowman stood firm and eventually convinced Michael’s mother, Debbie Phelps, to believe in his vision. Bowman suggested that Phelps give up other sports such as baseball and lacrosse in order to focus entirely on swimming. In 2000, at the age of 15, Phelps became the youngest U.S. Olympian and in 2004 he won six Olympic gold medals.

Bowman’s impact on Michael Phelps’ career went beyond coaching. He spotted Phelps’ potential early on and played a major role in determining the fate of one of the greatest athletes in modern history.

Watch this story: Swimming GOAT Michael Phelps sends heartfelt wishes to legendary coach Bob Bowman on his birthday