Michael Jordan’s stint in college is not given the respect it deserves. While what Jordan did in the NBA was truly spectacular, his achievements while playing for the University of North Carolina is no small feat. Jordan hit one of the greatest shots in collegiate basketball history to help the Tar Heels win the 1981-82 NCAA Division 1 National Championship.
Recently, the University of North Carolina invited Michael Jordan, James Worthy, Sam Perkins, and the rest of the members of the 1981-82 championship team to honor them in front of a packed crowd. It was a great moment for fans of the Tar Heels, as they got to pay respect to one of the greatest teams in their college’s history.
On top of that, it was an incredible opportunity for the current crop of UNC players to be around, meet, and interact with Michael Jordan. Several players from the Tar Heels spoke about the experience of meeting and playing in front of Michael Jordan, and how special it was to be in the presence of the GOAT.
Even UNC’s senior associate athletic director for communications, Steve Kirschner spoke about the presence of Jordan,
Caleb Love: “I looked right at him. It wasn’t intentional, but I looked at him and we kind of made eye contact. It’s just crazy to see him there. He’s the greatest to ever play this game. So just seeing him sitting (on the) sideline and watching us play, and us playing good, it’s just inspirational.”
Brandy Manek: “That’s an unreal experience. It was definitely one of the reasons that pulled me here, for a game like that. And with Michael being here, it makes it 30 times better. That’s awesome. That’s unbelievable.”
Clearly, these players were awestruck after seeing Michael Jordan, and they couldn’t believe they got the chance to meet and play in front of the greatest player of all time. On top of that, they were surrounded by other NBA greats such as James Worthy and Sam Perkins, who also made a massive impact on the league.
Jordan also made a trip down to UNC to honor coach Roy Williams recently. Jordan’s aura and legacy as a player are immortal. Even young players who never got to see him play during his prime know the extent of his impact. And his greatness can never be forgotten, not even by those who didn’t get to witness it first-hand.
