Michael Jordan, is an iconic figure in the world of basketball. While his professional career with the Chicago Bulls is widely celebrated, not everyone is aware of his college journey and his intricate relationship with the University of North Carolina (UNC).
Michael Jordan’s Journey from College to the NBA Legend
Before he became Air Jordan, MJ was Michael Jordan, a young basketball player with aspirations of greatness. While his professional feats are legendary, it’s important to recognize that his college days also played a crucial role in shaping his basketball prowess. Attending UNC, Jordan was a standout player who demonstrated his potential early on.
His freshman year saw him run the 40-yard dash in a remarkable 4.5 seconds. The following year, he achieved a jaw-dropping 4.38 seconds, a speed that surprised even the coaching staff, prompting them to have him run the test again to confirm. This remarkable athleticism foreshadowed his future dominance in the NBA.
Michael Jordan shots.pic.twitter.com/417M0aoA5d
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In the 1982 NCAA championship, Jordan left an indelible mark on the court. His game-winning shot against Patrick Ewing’s Georgetown secured the championship for UNC, solidifying his status as a clutch player even at the college level.
Michael Jordan’s College Choice Journey
One lesser-known aspect of Jordan’s college years is his allegiance to NC State before joining UNC. Growing up, he was a fervent NC State fan, largely due to his admiration for his favorite player, David Thompson. It was only upon visiting both UNC and NC State that he discovered the familial atmosphere at UNC, which resonated with him.
In Jordan’s own words:
“I was a very avid NC State fan… I was really a fan of David Thompson’s style of play, and I just couldn’t stand Carolina.”
However, the warm and supportive environment he found at UNC ultimately led him to join the Tar Heels, where he blossomed into a basketball sensation.
Michael Jordan’s Signature Move
One of the distinctive trademarks of Jordan’s playing style was his habit of sticking out his tongue while driving to the basket. This iconic gesture became synonymous with his electrifying plays.
Jordan attributes this habit to his father and explains that it’s a habit he picked up during childhood. This quirky gesture became a symbol of his intensity and focus on the court.
While Jordan’s college days might have begun with an unexpected twist in terms of his fandom, his journey at UNC established a deep connection that endures to this day. His championship-winning shot in 1982 solidified his place in UNC’s storied history. Despite his early allegiance to NC State, he embraced UNC’s family-like atmosphere, and the fit proved mutually beneficial.
His relationship with legendary coach Dean Smith was pivotal in his development both on and off the court. Smith’s mentorship played a significant role in shaping Jordan’s character and leadership qualities, which later contributed to his success in the NBA.
