Kemba Walker was able to get close to multiple NBA stars during his 12 years in the NBA, but none were bigger than Michael Jordan.
Walker played for Jordan’s Charlotte Bobcats when he first entered the league in 2011 and had a very memorable moment with him during his second season.
During an interview on “7PM in Brooklyn,” Walker admitted that he was deferring to other players early in his career.
But Jordan pulled him into his office and said he didn’t draft him to defer and demanded more from the former UConn star.
That was all Walker needed to hear and he listened to Jordan, took a lead on the team, and changed his career forever.
During his years playing for Charlotte, Walker averaged 19.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists.
Following his seasons there, he moved to the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and finally the Dallas Mavericks.
Walker recently announced that he had retired from the NBA but he also revealed that he will be part of the Hornets’ coaching staff in the future.
That means he might be able to inspire and lead other young players, just like Jordan inspired and led him.
Walker noted just how important it was to hear these words from Jordan.
It’s not every day that a player has a conversation with basketball royalty like this.
Hearing the greatest player of all time demand more did a lot for Walker and he felt more confidence and desire to play hard for his team.
After that nudge from Jordan, Walker was a much more committed and consequential player.
