Scared to death – Ray Allen reveals what it was like to play against Michael Jordan

Legendary Michael Jordan is one of the best players in NBA history. The passion with which MJ played was unmatchable and he always wanted to win at any cost. The legend always pushed the buttons in the practice sessions and there was no leniency from his end.

Jordan was a massive star during his halcyon days and it was impossible for other players to match his aura. The Chicago Bulls player was on a different level altogether throughout the 1990s.

Meanwhile, Ray Allen was only 21 years old when he faced Michael Jordan for the first time back in 1996. Jordan was making a comeback after taking his first retirement and Allen was in awe of the legend. Allen had seen Jordan rise through the ranks in the last decade and it was a dream come true for the youngster to play against the superstar.

In fact, Allen also went on to become one of the best shooters in the game. Allen had scored 385 three-pointers in the NBA playoffs and recently LeBron James went past his record.

Ray Allen said while talking on James Posey podcast, “My second game of my rookie year preseason, we played against the Bulls in 1997. So, Imagine that as a 21-year-old kid, you are playing against MJ. I was scared to death and in 97′, imagine hearing that theme song when he runs down the floor and people they’re ready and waiting to watch the game.

“I’m on the floor stretching and he runs down the floor and I have to look up. It was like this is so surreal to me that I’m sitting on this court right now and I have watched this for the last 10 years of my life. So, I am like I am rooting for you against me.”

It was a surreal feeling for Allen when he faced Michael Jordan for the first time. The competitiveness that Jordan brought on the court was infectious and he used to be at his best on the most of the occasions. The legend was always determined to win and gave his 120% on the court.

Jordan has a great final record in the NBA. The star went 6-0 in the finals and won six NBA Championships in his illustrious career. Thus, Jordan is regarded as one of the best basketball players in the history of the game.