"I don't think people realize how psycho this dude is" - John Salley on how meticulous Michael Jordan was about his on-court looks
Michael Jordan was one of the most unique players in NBA history. Apart from possessing otherworldly athleticism and an array of skills that allowed him to dominate on both ends of the floor, MJ's detailed approach to the game bordered on maniacal.
In a recent conversation with Los Angeles Lakers great Byron Scott, John Salley shared his experience playing with Jordan on the Chicago Bulls. He revealed how MJ's attention to detail extended beyond the court and into his appearance on game nights.
MJ's obsession with on-court looks
Salley, a 6'11" big man who thrived as a reserve for the "Bad Boys" Detroit Pistons, knew "Air Jordan" well. After all, he was tasked with protecting the paint for many seasons from the mighty guard's relentless onslaughts. However, playing with the former North Carolina Tar Heel was a different experience altogether.
According to "Spider," who joined the Bulls during the 1995-96 season, witnessing how the 6'6" guard prepared himself in the locker room was an unforgettable experience.
"My locker was here at the United Center, and he was right here," John shared on "Byron Scott's Fast Break. "I would watch him tie his shoes, put his sock up, and then look at this sock, and then it had to be the same height. Everything had to... like he was a gladiator."
As obsessed as Jordan was with poring over his opponents' strengths and weaknesses, he was just as focused on the details of his appearance during gameday. From his meticulously crafted shoes to his perfectly aligned socks, Mike paid attention to every aspect of his appearance on the court.
Salley says Jordan was a psycho
Salley was so enthralled with MJ's ways that he couldn't help but describe his former superstar teammate as a "psycho." Jordan was so honed in on perfection that even the slightest wrinkle could send him into a frenzy.
"I don't even think people realize how psycho this dude is. You got to pull his shirt out a little bit; it's going to piss him off. It needs to be tucked perfectly," Salley revealed.
John added that messing with MJ's outfit could have been a feasible way to get him off his game.
"Just mess up his outfit—that's the only way to stop him, to make him think about anything else but destroying you," he concluded.
However, that tactic could backfire spectacularly, as getting on "Air Jordan's" bad side was not wise, likely resulting in the legendary wingman having a legendary scoring performance. Rex Chapman is one of many guys who learned that lesson the hard way.
