Episodes 5 and 6 of “The Last Dance” touched on a number of topics including Kobe Bryant, MJ’s gambling habit, and (of course) his infamous and ongoing rivalry with Isiah Thomas.
Though their on-court battle ended over a decade ago, Jordan admitted to still having some bitter feelings.
“I respect Isiah Thomas’ talent. To me, the best point guard of all time is Magic Johnson, and right behind him is Isiah Thomas. No matter how much I hate him, I respect his game,” Jordan said on the 10-part documentary.
That comment only came after a previous one, in which the Chicago legend insisted that “nobody” could convince him that IT wasn’t an a-hole.
“You can show me anything you want,” Jordan said.”There’s no way you can convince me he wasn’t a (jerk).”
How does Thomas feel knowing Jordan’s feelings about him? Surprised, apparently.
“I’m really surprised that he has that kind of hate and anger. I’ve never experienced that being around him. My son was wearing Michael Jordan jerseys and shoes. They have Jordan jerseys on from the Olympics and the Bulls jerseys that I bought for them,” Thomas told Beard.
#TheLastDance Episodes 5 and 6 include Michael Jordan's 'hate' for Isiah Thomas, Kobe Bryant tribute, superstardom and his drive. Here are some takeaways: https://t.co/HqjVbaKXNm pic.twitter.com/bWCm93Zkfv
— Rod Beard (@ajcRodBeard) May 4, 2020
Obviously, the bad blood between the two runs deep, even if it is one-sided. Back in the day, Thomas and his tactics (much like those of his team at the time) were highly scrutinized for being dirty and borderline dangerous. Jordan often caught the worst of their ultra-aggressive strategies and it’s no secret that the Pistons had specific rules for guarding him.
Even off the court, it seemed the Bad Boys loved playing as the villain. They infamously walked off the court in the 1991 Eastern Conference Finals and consistently trash-talked their way into headlines.
The result? A controversial reputation and a strained relationship with Jordan, even if it ended years ago. Thomas may be surprised, but he’s not confused. He knows exactly why Jordan (and others) have some sour feelings towards him and his squad of misfits.
