In a stunning revelation, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has unveiled a little-known chapter in the history of the Washington Wizards, shedding light on the tumultuous exit of basketball icon Michael Jordan from the franchise’s ownership. According to Arenas, the Wizards players wanted Jordan out due to dissatisfaction with Jordan’s management style, leading to a clandestine meeting that resulted in the Hall of Famer’s departure.
In a recent episode of his ‘Gil’s Arena’ podcast, Gilbert Arenas disclosed that during Jordan’s tenure as a minority owner of the Washington Wizards, tensions reached a boiling point between the basketball legend and the players. The dissatisfaction stemmed from how Jordan, once their on-court counterpart, transitioned into a front office and ownership role.
Why Wizards Players Wanted Jordan Out?
Arenas revealed, “How he was dealing with the players, they didn’t like the idea that this is how they were dealt with as the player version of him, what happens as the owner version of him.” The disgruntled players convened for a meeting, expressing their collective desire for Jordan’s exit as the team’s owner.
Team owner Mr. Pollen, caught in the crossfire, decided to act on the players’ sentiments. “So, you know, Mr. Pollen basically said, well, I mean, the players voted, so he had the meeting with MJ, gave him that check, and said, you know, team don’t want you, gave him 10 million. MJ threw that mother***r and left,” shared Arenas, narrating the dramatic departure of the basketball legend.
The move to oust Jordan took many by surprise, with Mr. Pollen facing scrutiny over the decision. The aftermath left the Wizards with a void in ownership, but it was a bold step that reflected the players’ determination to shape the direction of their team.
Following Jordan’s exit, Gilbert Arenas became a pivotal figure for the Washington Wizards. The team had recruited him in the summer of 2003 with a clear mission: to transform the franchise into a winning force and erase the shadow of Michael Jordan’s ownership.
“‘Erase Jordan’s name and you’re cool’ … I got paid $64 million,” proclaimed Arenas on his podcast, emphasizing the financial commitment made by the Wizards to build a new era, distinct from the Jordan era.
In a tongue-in-cheek manner, Arenas playfully asserted his impact on the Wizards, stating, “I did something MJ couldn’t do. Got the Wizards in the playoffs and won the playoffs series. I’m the GOAT. If you add up our stats together, I mean, I burn him. If we want to go to history, I gave him 41 (points). I will tell my kids that.”
Arenas, known for his confidence and bold statements, positioned himself as the Wizards’ true GOAT, highlighting his contributions to the team’s playoff success during his seven-year tenure.
Arenas’ revelation provides a rare glimpse into the dynamics of NBA franchises, showcasing the delicate balance between players and ownership. The episode underscores the influence players can exert in shaping the direction of a team, even when dealing with a basketball legend of Michael Jordan’s stature.
The Wizards’ players, by actively participating in the decision to part ways with Michael Jordan as an owner, demonstrated a rare form of player autonomy in shaping the identity of their franchise. It serves as a testament to the evolving power dynamics within NBA organizations and the impact players can have beyond the court. The Wizards’ quest to redefine their narrative and move beyond the Jordan era is an intriguing storyline in the annals of NBA history.
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