"Starts writing down how many times he dunked on each one of them" - Sam Smith on what Michael Jordan did in his first UNC practice
Longtime Chicago Bulls reporter Sam Smith still vividly recalls Michael Jordan's confidence even as a freshman at the University of North Carolina, displaying an unwavering determination to outshine his older teammates during practice sessions.
Smith shared an intriguing anecdote about Jordan's competitive spirit. According to "The Jordan Rules" author, MJ meticulously kept track of the times he posterized each of his Tar Heels teammates. To maintain this record, he even created a detailed list.
"The first day he goes into practice as a freshman at North Carolina, they got James Worthy, they got Sam Perkins, he walks into the locker room, he writes their names on the board and then starts writing down how many times he dunked on each one of them," Smith told Shark Sports Radio.
"There's this kid, you know, you got Hall of Famers [there], you know, All-Americans, upperclassmen, and he's walking in saying, I'm gonna dunk on these guys, and he's writing it down on the board how many times he did," he continued.
MJ took his UNC mentality to the pros
Smith has often reflected on Jordan's confidence and relentless desire to dominate everybody. From his early days at UNC, where he showcased his exceptional talent and competitive nature, Jordan carried that mentality into the pros. Having covered the Bulls, Smith remembered how MJ's determination to establish himself as the best player in the world sometimes created a clash with the team's strategic plans.
While the organization aimed to carefully rebuild by signing players who could complement Jordan's unique style of play, there was a sense of urgency driven by the UNC alum's fierce competitive spirit. Mike wanted to win and dominate immediately, which occasionally conflicted with the team's long-term vision of developing a well-rounded roster without rushing the process.
"So, when he gets in the NBA, you know, he's not ready to settle that 'it's a process,' you know, 'we're going to build.' (He was like) 'I'm ready now!' you know, 'I'm better than these guys!'" Smith added.
Coach Dean led MJ to the right path
After hitting the game-winning shot in the NCAA championship game during his freshman year, Jordan experienced a remarkable breakout season as a sophomore. Throughout 36 games, he averaged an impressive 20.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.2 steals.
Going into his junior year, anticipation surrounded Mike, with everyone believing he would continue his stellar play. However, the beginning of the season proved challenging for MJ as he struggled to find his rhythm on the court.
Coach Dean Smith noticed Jordan's early difficulties and realized something was off. The weight of expectations, coupled with the pressures of the game, may have caused Jordan to feel overwhelmed, affecting his overall performance.
Fortunately, Smith took it upon himself to assist MJ during this period. With guidance and support, he helped the rising star regain his composure and realign his focus. From that point on, Jordan's confidence and mindset were fine-tuned. He was no longer stepping on the court just to outplay everybody. He had specific goals and intentions.
"Coach Smith done noticed it," Jordan once recounted. "He showed me film from my sophomore year and the beginning of my junior year, and it looked like a totally different person. It made me see exactly what success had done to me, and I was able to deal with it from that point on. I remember we were playing NC State, and I cut my hair, I was bald-headed, and I said, 'I'm washing away with the way I started off with the season.' I set my own expectations of myself, and I just started to play better basketball."
MJ was all about dominance
After his junior year, Jordan felt a surge of confidence and readiness to tackle the bigger challenges that the NBA had to offer. In 1984, his dreams became a reality when he was drafted by the Bulls. This moment marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would transform the landscape of basketball.
Jordan made an explosive impact in the league, quickly emerging as one of the NBA's premier players. His incredible athleticism, fierce competitiveness, and ability to perform under pressure set him apart from his peers.
Under Jordan's leadership, the Bulls achieved the zenith of success throughout the '90s. Ultimately, the dynasty's remarkable reign during this era is a testament to Jordan's ability to not only win but dominate.
