Charles Barkley Shares a Tale of Michael Jordan’s Fierce Competitiveness
Michael Jordan’s fierce competitiveness is legendary, and Hall of Famer Charles Barkley recently shared a remarkable story that highlights this trait. Speaking on the TNT “Steam Room” podcast, Barkley recounted an incident from the 1992 Tournament of the Americas in Portland, which served as a warm-up before the iconic Dream Team headed to Barcelona for the Olympics.
Golf Before the Game
Barkley, Jordan, David Robinson, and coach Chuck Daly played a round of golf together. After finishing, while the others rested, Jordan decided to play another round by himself, despite having a game against Puerto Rico later that day. “This is when I knew Michael Jordan was crazy,” Barkley said. “Michael is the most competitive person I’ve ever been around in my life.”
The Defensive Assignment
Before the game, Daly handed out defensive assignments. Barkley, Robinson, and Scottie Pippen accepted theirs without issue. However, when Daly assigned Jordan to cover the Puerto Rican shooting guard, Jordan refused. He insisted on guarding the point guard instead, citing personal motivation. Barkley recalled Jordan saying to Daly, “I got the point guard. He said some [expletive] about me in the newspaper and I’m going to get him.” Barkley and the others knew the point guard was in for a tough night. “It’s just amazing how he played 36 holes and he’s guarding this dude like it’s Game 7,” Barkley marveled.
The Game
The USA won the game decisively, 119-81. Jordan’s intense focus on the Puerto Rican point guard was evident, as he didn’t allow his opponent to take many shots, completely dominating him.
https://youtu.be/qPNakkQImFE
Conclusion
Barkley’s story is a testament to Jordan’s extraordinary competitiveness and dedication. Playing 36 holes of golf and then delivering a dominant defensive performance in a relatively minor game showcases the relentless drive that made Jordan a basketball legend. For those interested in hearing Barkley’s recount, it can be found at the 50:44 mark of the podcast episode.