Stephen A. Smith believes Michael Jordan’s sharp mind and tongue will dominate the NBA media: “He knows what the hell he’s talking about”
Stephen A. Smith can’t wait to see the unfiltered version of MJ on NBC.
Media conglomerate NBC recently sent hoop fans into a frenzy when it announced that Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan would be joining NBC Sports’ coverage of the NBA as a “special contributor.”
While the details of his functions remain under wraps, ESPN ace Stephen A. Smith couldn’t contain his excitement about the development, especially if the network allows the GOAT to be who he really is, raw and unfiltered, during his TV appearances.
Which version of MJ will show up?
On “First Take,” Stephen A. couldn’t help but wonder which version of “His Airness” will show up? On one hand, there’s the authentic “Mr. Air” experience, which many saw in his documentary series, “The Last Dance.” That version constantly held no punches and was never afraid to speak his mind, even if it meant alienating some of his peers.
On the other hand, there’s the more polished and corporate version of MJ that we often see in public appearances and interviews. This is the Jordan who carefully chooses his words and maintains a certain image to protect his brand.
“Obviously, we are talking about the GOAT — the greatest ever, okay? So, certainly, the qualifications are there. I just want to know because, you know, that’s my brother. Yes, I love my bro, Michael — Michael Jordan. I just want to know: is it going to be the Michael Jordan, you know, that you see on television, or is it going to be the Michael Jordan we speak to?” Smith shared.
“Cause the Michael Jordan we speak to — oh, it’s going to be epic. It’s going to be epic. This brother — the things that he will say, and the way that he says them, and the way that he breaks them down — Lord have mercy. That’s on another level, you understand?” Smith raved.
Elite IQ and a sharp tongue
Aside from his premier physical attributes and basketball talent, the 6’6″ wingman also had an elite hoops IQ and a sharp wit. He relished dominating opponents not only physically but also mentally, using his sharp tongue to get foes off their games. Nobody wanted to engage in any verbal warfare with Mike since they knew that battle would never be won.
If allowed to critique and share his unfiltered thoughts about the state of the league and the superstars of today, it could make for some entertaining and controversial content.
“I’m telling you, as somebody who has spoken to him about basketball on many, many, many occasions over the years — over the decades — obviously, he knows what the hell he’s talking about,” SAS remarked.
In a video message shared by NBC, MJ expressed his enthusiasm about joining NBC Sports and being back in the spotlight once more.
“I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC. The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project. I’m looking forward to seeing you all when the NBA on NBC launches this October,” the six-time NBA champion said.
The NBA is returning to the network it called home from 1990 to 2002. With Jordan onboard, it looks like NBC intends to welcome the league with a bang.
