When Michael Jordan un-retired for the second time and returned to the NBA, he was 38-years-old and playing for the Washington Wizards. Even still, he averaged 20 points per game but clearly was nowhere in his prime anymore.
His prime was probably gone, but his hunger for competition was still very much there. Jamal Crawford found that out the hard way during his rookie season in the league.
The then 21-year-old challenged MJ to a 3-point shootout for $1000. Jordan won, so Crawford upped to $5000 and won. Jordan then raised the stakes to bet their vehicles.
“JC challanged MJ to a 3 point shootout for $1000, MJ won so Crawford upped to $5000 and won, then MJ told him: “What car did you drive here with?” – “Mercedes” – “I came with a Ferrari, let’s bet our cars.” MJ went 5 for 5, removed Crawford’s personalized plate and left with the Mercedes.”
The three time sixth man of the year learned a valuable lesson that day.
