DETAILS BEHIND LEBRON OPENING UP ON MJ GOAT DEBATE

 

LEN BIAS' MOTHER SAID HER SON'S DEATH HELPED SAVE LIVES ACROSS U.S.: "THE DAY LEN DIED WAS THE DAY THEY STOPPED USING COCAINE"

The NBA has seen its fair share of “what-if” stories. Players who many pegged to be on a path of greatness, only to be derailed by injuries. This includes the likes of Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway, Brandon Roy, Grant Hill and Greg Oden.

However, arguably the most tragic of them all was Len Bias. A super-talented 6’8″ forward whom the Boston Celtics selected with the second pick in the 1986 NBA Draft, the Maryland standout was expected to lead the team into the future, especially when stars like Larry Bird and Kevin McHale stepped away from the game.

Unfortunately, Bias never even got to play a single second in the big league as he passed away on June 19, 1986, due to cardiac arrhythmia related to his use of powdered cocaine. While the tragedy denied Bias of the chance to realize his basketball dreams, his mother, Lonise, made sure that his death would not be in vain, crusading against drugs in the many years that followed.

A death that woke up a nation

Bias’ death sparked a movement across the United States, with authorities cracking down on recreational cocaine use, especially amongst younger people. According to Lonise, she had been told by many people from different parts of the country that Len’s demise served as a reminder for them to stop using drugs or risk injury or even death.

“Many, many people have come to me throughout the [last] 20 years and have told me that the day Len died was the day they stopped using cocaine,” she shared.

“I’ve had people stop me in the street and tell me that. They still do, telling me they’ve remained clean since that time and that it was the turning point in their lives.”

Len’s passing led to tangible change, as the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 or the “Len Bias Law,” was signed by U.S. President Ronald Reagan in October 1986. The law mandates severe punishment for those who distribute drugs that lead to a person’s death or serious injury.

“His death woke the nation up,” Lonise added. “We got on the ball, and we started a lot of programs, and a lot of things happened to prevent drug use with young people. I believe Len has truly done more in death than he ever could have done in life.”

Gave MJ fits

Len’s glory days came in the NCAA when he established himself as one of the league’s pre-eminent players. After a solid freshman season, his stock rose in his second year when he averaged 15.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. Playing for Maryland also meant playing in the ACC, the same conference that the North Carolina Tar Heels play in. And as everyone knows, there was a guy by the name of Michael Jordan who starred there.

According to ESPN ace Scott Van Pelt, he relished watching those intense matchups between Len and Michael.

“I have a picture of him in my basement, it’s a black-and-white photo of him, like at least three feet off the ground straight up in the air with Jordan, with his hand in his face,” SVP shared.

“And there’s a grainy old YouTube video of a game where it was Jordan and Carolina, and Leonard and Maryland. When you watch it, the guy in the blue jersey, no one can stop, it’s obvious that’s Michael, and in the light jersey, no one can stop is Len.”

Len obviously had All-Star potential and perhaps so much more. Unfortunately, a bad decision prevented him from ever realizing what he could have been in the NBA.

- Jonas Panerio

KOBE BRYANT VS. MICHAEL JORDAN | 40 POINTS STREAKS

 

MAX KELLERMAN ON KOBE BRYANT EMULATING MICHAEL JORDAN

 

EXCLUSIVE LOOK AT THE AIR JORDAN 10 "UNC" PLAYER EXCLUSIVE

Image via UNC Basketball

The Air Jordan 10 "UNC" PE surfaces in images that highlight the rare player exclusive and its Chapel Hill inspired design.

The Air Jordan 10 "UNC" PE returns to the spotlight with a new set of images that show why this pair sits in a special tier. The silhouette has always carried a different kind of weight in Jordan history.

The sneaker represents a moment when Michael stepped away from the game, yet the design still honored his legacy. That story gives every PE extra meaning, especially when it ties back to his North Carolina roots. UNC pairs always hit a nostalgic nerve.

The colors connect two eras of Michael’s life. They call back to his time in Chapel Hill while still sitting firmly in the Jumpman lineage. That mix gives any UNC themed model a clean sense of identity.

The Air Jordan 10 adds another layer, since the shoe represents a chapter built on milestones and reflection. Player exclusives remain a rare item as only athletes and insiders tend to see pairs like this in person.

That scarcity fuels the energy behind every "UNC" PE reveal. New photos of this Air Jordan 10 show why that excitement never fades. The suede hits look bold under the arena lights.

The classic Jumpman branding sharpens the look even more. The images above capture all of these details and remind everyone why UNC themed PEs always command attention.

This Air Jordan 10 "UNC" PE uses a mix of white leather and carolina blue suede. The upper features crisp black accents along the collar and tongue.

The mudguard and midsole use black to anchor the bright colors. Also, the outsole carries alternating blue and black stripes. The lateral side features a white stitched Jumpman.

The heel liner comes in soft blue fabric. Further the tongue tag uses a black base with a silver Jumpman. The inner pull tab helps finish the clean build. Every detail stays consistent with UNC’s signature palette.

- BEN ATKINSON

JOHN W. ROGERS JR. IS THE ONLY PERSON TO BEAT MICHAEL JORDAN 1-ON-1

John W. Rogers Jr. beat NBA legend Michael Jordan in a real 1-on-1 game. 

In 2003, Rogers attended Jordan's Senior Flight School in Las Vegas, Nevada. The matchup ended 3-2, and the moment was caught on video. When he sank the final shot, Jordan reacted with a simple, "Oh, no." People at the camp watched it unfold in real time and confirmed it. 

To this day, it remains the only recorded and documented one-on-one win against Jordan. Rogers who now runs a $14.5 billion investment firm said, "He knew that was one of my patented shots."

stayinspirednews.com/the-only-person-to-ever-beat-michael-jordan-one-on-one

BASKETBALL STAR STEPHEN CURRY IS JOINING MICHAEL JORDAN AND THE JORDAN BRAND

BREAKING: Steph Curry is set to release his first-ever Jordan Brand sneaker. The announcement has sent waves through the basketball community as two generational names join forces in a landmark moment for performance and culture; marking a rare crossover moment between two of basketball’s biggest icons. The collaboration signals a historic partnership in the sportswear world, drawing major attention from fans, athletes, and collectors worldwide.

Stephen Curry signs with Jordan Brand! ••

Stephen Curry is officially joining Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand after parting ways with Under Armour. MJ reportedly stepped in personally - even calling Steph to help close the deal. Jordan Brand is now developing an exclusive Curry Brand line poised to shake up the sneaker world.

#stephcurry #jordanbrand

MICHAEL JORDAN WISHES HE COULD PLAY TODAY | HE HASN'T PICKED UP A BALL IN YEARS

 

MICHAEL JORDAN OPENS FIRST U.S. WORLD OF FLIGHT STORE IN PHILADELPHIA

According to reports, Michael Jordan’s first U.S. World of Flight store opened in Philadelphia’s Center City, drawing massive crowds of fans eager to experience the launch. 

The store marks Jordan Brand’s first American flagship of its kind, combining sneaker releases with immersive storytelling and exclusive merch. 

The design celebrates Philly’s deep basketball roots while giving fans a space to connect with the culture. Many see it as a major win for the city’s growing influence in sports and streetwear. 👏💯

BASKETBALL LEGENDS MICHAEL JORDAN PARTNERS WITH TENNIS ACE COCO GAUFF IN A $50 MILLION ENDORSEMENT DEAL

 

MICHAEL JORDAN | THE GOAT | THE HIGHEST VERTICAL IN NBA HISTORY

MJ holds the distinction of having the highest vertical leap in NBA history at 48 inches. His nickname was Air Jordan for a reason 🚀

#maxsportsblog #greatness #michaeljordan #MJ #Basketball #Verticle #maxsports

THE 🏀 GOAT | MICHAEL JORDAN

 

MICHAEL JORDAN VS. KIBE BRYANT | STATS

Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant are two of the greatest basketball players of all time, often compared due to their incredible skill, work ethic, and impact on the game.

Michael Jordan, born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, is widely regarded as the greatest basketball player in history. A six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls, Jordan’s combination of scoring, defense, and clutch performances made him a global icon. Known for his incredible competitiveness and leadership, Jordan’s career achievements include five MVP awards and a legacy that transcends basketball, with his influence reaching into pop culture and business through his partnership with Nike for the iconic Air Jordan brand.

Kobe Bryant, born on August 23, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the most accomplished and respected players in NBA history. Known for his "Mamba Mentality," Bryant played his entire 20-season career with the Los Angeles Lakers, winning five NBA championships. His scoring ability, footwork, and work ethic were legendary, and he became the youngest player to score 30,000 points in NBA history. Bryant’s relentless drive and competitive nature were often compared to Jordan’s, and he is remembered for his leadership both on and off the court.

#MichaelJordan #KobeBryant #NBALegends #BasketballGreats #GOAT #MJvsKobe #NBAChampions #Lakers #ChicagoBulls #AirJordan #MambaMentality #BasketballHistory #NBAIcons #BlackMamba #BasketballLegends

MICHAEL JORDAN'S LAST SHOT | GAME 6 1996 NBA FINALS

 

BASKETBALL LEGEND MICHAEL JORDAN MADE MORE MONEY 💰

 

BASKETBALL LEGEND MICHAEL JORDAN ENJOYING GOOD MUSIC WITH HIS CIGAR 🎶🎵🎶🎵

 

DIRK NOWITZKI ON THE 'GOAT' DEBATE

 

MICHAEL JORDAN ON SLEEPING WITH WOMEN

 

Michael Jordan says he was sleeping with 3-5 women per day during the 2001 season:

“It was during my later years, women were coming to me left and right, I have kids out there I haven’t met and I’m sure one of them is currently in the NBA.”

MJ FOR THE WIN: REDDICK PULLS OFF A TALLADEGA BUZZER-BEATER FOR MICHAEL JORDAN

AP Photo 

 TALLADEGA, Ala. (AP) — So much for Michael Jordan being a jinx at the race track.

The Basketball Hall of Famer celebrated as if he was still on the court after Tyler Reddick stole a NASCAR Cup victory at Talladega Superspeedway, speeding across the line after front-runner Michael McDowell — swerving back and forth in a desperate bid to hold the lead — crashed with the finish line in sight.

It was another wild Talladega finish — and marked the first time that Jordan, co-owner of the 23XI Racing along with Denny Hamlin, has been at the track to witness a victory for one of his drivers.

“Denny keeps saying I was bad luck when I come to the track, and today we proved him wrong,” a beaming Jordan said in Victory Lane. “I’m very happy to be here to see it. Everybody tells me when we win we can have a good celebration, but this is the first time I’ve been here.”

AP Photo 

McDowell, the pole-sitter, dominated the closing laps and was in position to give Ford its much-needed first victory of the year. But his desperate efforts to block Keselowski, another Ford driver, wound up costing them both.

McDowell spun out, Keselowski had to check up and Reddick sped by to claim his sixth career Cup victory by 0.208 seconds.

A pile of cars behind them were taken out, as well. Corey LaJoie's No. 7 machine slid across the finish line on its side, pinned against the wall in front of the massive grandstands.

Reddick climbed out of his No. 45 car and scurried up the fence like Spider-Man.

“Was that crazy, guys?” he screamed to the fans. “That was chaos. That’s Talladega for you.”

For Jordan, it sparked memories of his former life, the one where he won six NBA championships and hit countless buzzer-beaters.

Yet make no mistake: Jordan's passion these days is stock car racing.

AP Photo 

“To me, this is like an NBA playoff game," the 61-year-old said. “For us to win a big race like this, it means so much to me. I’m all in. I love it. It replaces a lot of the competitiveness that I had in basketball. But this is even worse, because I have no control. If I was playing basketball, I’d have total control. But I have no control, so I live vicariously through the drivers, crew chiefs and everybody.”

Keselowski settled for the runner-up spot, failing again to pick up his first win since he triumphed three years ago at this 2.66-mile trioval in east Alabama.

“We went to make a move and Michael covered it,” Keselowski said. “We went the other way and had nowhere to go when Michael came back down. It's just the way this stuff goes.”

McDowell was apologetic to Keselowski and everyone who crashed behind him.

“He pushed me out. I drove back to him and was able to get in front of him that very first time. But when I came back down, I barely wasn't clear,” McDowell said. “It's Talladega. You're going for it, trying to get a win. We just came up short and took a lot of guys out with me."

AP Photo 

Reddick's victory redeemed a botched strategy that knocked out a bunch of Toyota contenders, including Hamlin, who co-owns 23XI while driving for Joe Gibbs Racing.

All three Toyota teams pitted in tandem with 37 laps to go, going with a strategy that would've allowed them to push the pace on the rest of the fuel-saving field — with an idea of drafting all the way to the front for the checkered flag.

Unfortunately, they couldn't keep their cars straight.

Just four laps later, with the Toyota train running at a blistering, single-file pace and chasing down the lead pack, John Hunter Nemechek appeared to get into the bumper of Bubba Wallace, who is Reddick's teammate at 23XI. Wallace then clipped Erik Jones, which sent him smashing hard into the outside wall.

Nemechek then slid down the track and took out Hamlin, as well.

“We had a plan,” Wallace said. “We just didn't execute it as well as we should have. I hate it. It doesn't make us look good at all.”

Jones took the brunt of the blow, a crash that would've been much worse without the sturdy cars and foamy barriers.

He was initially examined and released from the infield care center, saying “I’m a little sore, but I’m all right." But Jones' team announced after the race that he was transported to a hospital for further observation, providing no details on the nature of his injuries.

Reddick was at the front of the pack and avoided the crash.

In the end, he was able to celebrate an improbable win.

Always one to deliver a well-timed verbal jab, Jordan couldn't resist taking a poke at his co-owner, who was headed for the exits until he realized Reddick had won.

“Actually. he did a good job of wrecking,” Jordan said of Hamlin, “so we could get up front. That was actually pretty good.”

CLEAN RACING

Unlike the wacky finish, the first two stages were caution-free — the first time that’s happened at Talladega since the stage system was instituted in 2017. Many drivers were focused on saving fuel and there weren’t many bold moves.

Finally, on lap 132, with the cars three-wide and tightly bunched in the middle of a huge train, the first occurred.

Justin Haley got a bump from behind and went spinning into Christopher Bell, whose car sustained heavy damage that left him with a last-place finish.

IMPRESSIVE KIWI

Shane Van Gisbergen turned in a strong run in the first oval race of his burgeoning NASCAR Cup career.

The stunning winner of the Chicago street race in his Cup debut last summer, Van Gisbergen showed the depth of his talent by leading laps and staying out of trouble at the harrowing 2.66-mile trioval until the very end.

Unfortunately for the 34-year-old from New Zealand, he got caught up in the final melee and didn't make it across the line. He finished 27th.

AP Photo 

STARTING AT THE BACK

Season points leader Kyle Larson started the race with a huge disadvantage after his team was penalized for altering the roof rails on his No. 5 car on the way to the qualifying line Saturday.

Larson, who had won three straight poles, was barred from qualifying, forced to start from the back of the field and ordered to do a drive-through penalty on the opening lap. He was least a half-lap behind the field by the time he got up to speed and, without anyone to draft with, was caught by the leaders on the 12th lap.

NASCAR also ejected Larson’s car chief, Jesse Saunders, from the speedway.

Larson was able to work his way back into the mix but he wasn't a contender at the end. He finished 20th.

UP NEXT

The Cup series heads next Sunday to Dover Motor Speedway, where Martin Truex Jr. won the race a year ago.

- PAUL NEWBERRY

MICHAEL JORDAN QUOTE