Basketball has a clear set of rules, known to players, referees, and fans. However, there’s an unwritten code: never trash talk Michael Jordan. This lesson was painfully learned by Darrick Martin of the Vancouver Grizzlies during the 1995/96 season.
In a game against the Chicago Bulls, the Grizzlies were leading by eight points. Jordan was having a rough night, shooting only 4-for-16 from the field. With about ten minutes left in the game, Martin decided to taunt Jordan, saying, “Hey Mike, sh*t’s not falling tonight, Mike. You having an off night, Mike.”
Antonio Harvey, Martin’s ex-teammate, recounted this story in an interview with Aaron Ross. He was stunned by Martin’s decision to provoke Jordan.
At that moment, Jordan’s performance was subpar. However, the game was far from over, and Jordan is known for playing until the final whistle. What followed was a masterclass in basketball.
In the last ten minutes, Jordan scored 24 points. His final shot was a classic Jordan fadeaway. Catching the ball in the post, he faded toward the Grizzlies’ bench and made the shot, putting the Bulls up by six points. He then turned to the bench and said, “Shut up, you little bi***.”
This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trash-talking Michael Jordan, even when he seems to be having an off night.
