Jamal Mashburn reveals the incredible insight he gained from Michael Jordan in his prime.
Jamal Mashburn, a forward in the NBA for 12 years, has been in the news for recalling interesting stories about Michael Jordan. Mashburn played against Jordan in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game. He revealed an eye-opening conversation he had with the legendary Bulls-turned-Wizards guard.
Jamal Mashburn couldn’t believe what Jordan said to him before the 2003 NBA All-Star Game
In 2003, Michael Jordan played in his final NBA All-Star Game as a player for the Washington Wizards. He may not have the tools he had with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s, but he still has a lot to offer.
Jamal Mashburn asked Jordan for some advice during a one-on-one game before the All-Star break.
“I always knew Jordan was great, but when I talked to him and he was able to break down my game analytically, (I had more respect for him),” Mashburn told JJ Ray on “The Old Man and the Three” Dick.
Jordan pointed out Mashburn’s tendencies, such as his tendency to drive left and pull the ball with his right hand 80 percent of the time. The legend then reveals key insights to Mashburn. Jordan said Larry Bird and Julius Erving taught him to “play the game within the game.”
In other words, Jordan emphasized the importance of changing the style of play to keep defenses honest. For example, sometimes driving right instead of left can cause confusion. The six-time NBA champion went on a tirade about the strengths and weaknesses of different stars.
All in all, Jamal Mashburn appreciated Jordan’s knowledge and developed a newfound admiration for him.
“I thought I knew a lot about basketball, but he’s on a different level.”
About the author
Chris Smith is ClutchPoints’ all sports editor. The Aurora, Ill., native earned a degree in philosophy from Creighton University and competed as a Division I cross country runner. Smith has previously written for FanSided and Last Word on Sports, and his primary interests lie in the NBA, Brooklyn Nets and long-distance running.