Michael Jordan’s basketball career is often cited as a flawless march towards greatness, but his early days at UNC tell a different story. Under the tutelage of Dean Smith, Jordan was not an instant sensation but a work in progress with a lot to learn. Coach Smith, reflecting on Jordan’s freshman year, pointed out, “Michael wasn’t an instant star; rather, he was an important part of a potentially great team.” He further explained the initial struggles Jordan faced, especially with his shooting technique due to his unusually large hands. “It was like trying to shoot a volleyball,” Smith remarked, illustrating the adjustments Jordan had to make.
Defensive First: Jordan’s Route to Stardom
Before becoming the icon of offensive basketball, Jordan’s defensive capabilities were what first set him apart. In the early 1980s, defense was his ticket into UNC’s starting lineup. “Michael, defensively, if I find that you can really be a factor, then and only then would you be considered as a starter,” Smith told him in a pivotal preseason meeting. This emphasis on defense laid a solid foundation for Jordan, who would later become one of the best defensive players in NBA history, eventually winning the Defensive Player of the Year award in 1988.
The Turning Point: A Name on the Board
The defining moment of Jordan’s college career came just before the season opener against Kansas in 1981 when Smith decided to start him, a decision not revealed until the team reached the locker room. Smith’s trust in Jordan’s defensive understanding and his potential to improve was evident as he wrote Jordan’s name in the starting lineup on the locker room board.
Jordan’s Growth Under Smith’s Mentorship
Jordan’s growth under Smith was exponential. By the time he was drafted third overall by the Chicago Bulls in 1984, he had transformed from a raw talent into a refined athlete ready to take on the NBA. Reflecting on his growth, Jordan credited Smith for not just the skills but the understanding of the game. “Dean Smith taught me the game, when to apply speed, how to use your quickness,” Jordan recalled, underscoring the profound impact Smith had on his career.
Legacy and Respect: Beyond the Court
Even after reaching the pinnacle of basketball, Jordan never forgot the impact of his college coach. His respect for Smith’s guidance is a testament to the deep mentor-mentee relationship they shared. “A lot of people say Dean Smith held me under 20 points a game. Dean Smith gave me the knowledge to score 37 points a game,” Jordan stated, dispelling common myths about Smith’s conservative playstyle and highlighting how it actually prepared him for future challenges.
Michael Jordan’s path from a struggling college freshman to a basketball legend is a narrative of perseverance, skill development, and strategic mentorship. Dean Smith not only recognized Jordan’s potential but also instilled in him the discipline and knowledge required to excel at the highest levels. This journey from the courts of UNC to the global stages of the NBA continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, proving that even legends have humble beginnings.