Although they didn’t have the best relationship, Reggie Miller and Michael Jordan had the utmost respect for each other. Game recognizes game, and this is the prime example of that.
The Indiana Pacers legend knows he faced the greatest basketball player of all time in MJ, even if their physical duels created a rift between them. Still, that doesn’t mean Miller thinks Jordan isn’t the best basketball player of all time.
Back in 2011, Reggie and the rest of the TNT crew of Charles Barkley, Kevin McHale, Kenny Smith, Chris Webber, and Steve Kerr participated in the All-Star Ultimate Fantasy Draft.
The former Indiana Pacer couldn’t believe the first two picks, calling out Charles Barkley for picking Allen Iverson and Kevin McHale for going with former teammate Larry Bird. Jordan dropped to 3rd, and Miller didn’t hesitate (6:42).
“Are y’all kidding me? Are y’all kidding me? You’re going to tell me I have a chance to take the greatest player of all time? I’m going with Air Jordan, Michael Jordan. Are you kidding me?”
Miller was really disappointed in the rest of the crew. Still, he took advantage of that and selected His Airness for his “Boom Baby Daggers” team.
This was all about the All-Star Game, and Chuck explained why he went with AI. The All-Star Game has been dominated by point guards and Iverson was the right decision for him.
McHale named every accolade Larry Bird collected during his career and his capacity to dominate any game at any level.
Still, Miller reminded everybody that Michael Jordan is the GOAT. Regardless of how others fared in specific events, he should be the No. 1 pick no matter what. Reggie proved he was a big admirer of MJ’s game, even if he once said he’d punch the 6x NBA champion.
