Could Michael Jordan have gone and played for the New York Knicks?
The great Michael Jordan will always be known as a Chicago Bull—the brief stint with the Washington Wizards was nothing but an aberration. However, towards the tail-end of his incredible career in the red-and-black, His Airness allowed his mind to wander and entertain thoughts of being a Bull on Broadway.
Post-Last Dance
With the Bulls' dynasty on its last legs, Jordan talked about possibly playing for another NBA team. He ruled out many other teams but said that New York would be a great place to play, provided that Phil Jackson would be his coach.
"Going to another team? No. Miami? No. Phoenix? No. Charlotte? No way. I grew up in North Carolina, but I like the life I have started elsewhere. I will never leave Chicago. Indianapolis? No. The Lakers? No, no. New York? I'd love to go to the Knicks. But I can't uproot my family and take them to New York. I love the city, but I still need to play for Phil. I mean, I won't play unless it's for Phil," Jordan said in a 1998 interview with Slam Magazine.
Loved playing in New York
It was always a madhouse at the Madison Square Garden whenever Jordan was in town. More often than not, His Airness delivered unforgettable performances at the so-called "Mecca of Basketball." Whether it was the NBA Playoffs or just a regular season game, the atmosphere was electric when MJ laced them up.
"I always feel pumped in New York because I see the respect people pay when they come to the games. And that pumps more blood into me," Jordan explained before his last game at MSG, where he scored 42 points while wearing the classic Air Jordan 1s.
