NBA legend Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players to ever play the game. With six NBA championships, six NBA Finals MVPs, and countless other accolades, Jordan's dominance on the court is undeniable. After retiring in 2003, he has maintained his iconic status, especially through his partnership with Nike, which has solidified his influence both in and outside of basketball.
Despite his legendary status, Jordan has acknowledged that there were a few players during his career who could have given him a run for his money in a 1on1 game.
Jordan's Toughest Opponents: Small Guards
When asked about the toughest opponents he faced during his playing days, Michael Jordan revealed that smaller guards posed the biggest challenge for him. He specifically mentioned players like Allen Iverson, Damon Stoudamire, Rod Strickland, and Muggsy Bogues as being particularly difficult to defend against in a oneonone scenario.
Jordan elaborated on his difficulty with these types of players: "The hardest opponent for me to play against? In terms of 1on1? Small guys. [Allen] Iverson, Damon Stoudamire, Rod Strickland. Those little guards like that, it's tough for me. Muggsy [Bogues]. [John] Starks? No problem with Starks."
NBA legend all set to turn 40 LeBron James did not make Jordan's cut considering the era they played.
Allen Iverson: A Unique Challenge
Of all the small guards Jordan faced, he pointed out Allen Iverson as one of the most challenging. Jordan noted Iverson's incredible agility and quickness, which made him difficult to handle on the perimeter. However, Jordan also felt confident in his ability to overpower Iverson in the post.
Jordan said, "He could beat me on the perimeter, but I could take him in the post. He’s a heck of a good player. He's a young talent. He is gonna continue to get better once he learns how to play the game on a much higher scale."
He continued, "Right now, he's doing a lot on physical ability. He's good, he's quick. That's a challenge for me to go out to him and his stature. He's so quick and small. But it's a challenge. I won’t back away."
Jordan's Unmatched Career Achievements
Even with the recognition of his toughest opponents, Jordan’s career speaks for itself. Throughout his time with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards, Jordan amassed incredible achievements, including:
6 NBA Championships
6 NBA Finals MVPs
5 Regular Season MVPs
1 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award
11 AllNBA selections
9 AllDefensive selections
14 NBA AllStar appearances
10 NBA Scoring Titles
3 NBA Steals Titles
Jordan’s accolades and achievements solidify his place as a basketball icon, but his acknowledgment of players like Iverson and others speaks to the competitive nature and respect he has for his peers.