Michael Jordan’s ‘toughest’ rival admits protecting ‘incredible talent’ has special significance

Basketball fans rarely get tired of Michael Jordan stories. Over the years, several of his teammates and opponents have recounted their favorite Jordan stories. Recently, Joe Dumas added his story to the long list. Remarkably, Dumars earned Jordan’s respect while guarding him.

In this case, coach Mike Krzyzewski asked the NBA veteran what it’s like to guard arguably the greatest basketball player of all time. Dumas had a very heartfelt response.

Joe Dumars recalls what it was like to guard Michael Jordan

The 60-year-old said it was an incredible challenge to defend someone like MJ.He said there must be one “fully focus” Because this role requires a lot of effort on your part. Dumars also expressed great respect for the Chicago Bulls legend, saying he had been looking forward to this opportunity. He said, “This is the most anticipated game of my entire career”. Dumars said the key to successfully guarding Jordan is not getting discouraged when he makes a few shots in a row. He said, “We have a great game plan. I know where the help is coming from. “I know where to push”.

However, Dumas also admitted that “He (MJ) is still unbelievable” And he didn’t actually stop him. Still, Dumars earned the respect of Jordan, with the Bulls legend calling him the toughest opponent ever. Jordan said: “He thinks well and plays defense smart. “I think he goes into games trying to dissect his opponents and trying to find weaknesses or trying to force them to do things they’re uncomfortable with.”

Jordan also said that playing against Dumar helped him improve as a player. “He introduced certain techniques that allowed me to expand my talents as an offensive player, and that’s why I think he’s one of the best,” He said. Dumar is arguably one of the most underrated stars in the sport. Although when people talk about the Detroit Pistons’ back-to-back championships, his name doesn’t get mentioned much.

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He was one of the team’s biggest contributors when they defended their championships in 1989 and 1990. One thing the NBA veteran can be proud of is the respect he has earned from his peers, including some of the greatest players of all time to play the game.

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