Luc Longley quietly changed MJ’s competitive mindset.
Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the pinnacle of competitive greatness. His six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls, five MVP awards, and countless iconic moments define an era of basketball supremacy.
But behind the sharp intensity that fueled it, there is one about learning balance, shared understanding, and personal growth. Surprisingly, Jordan credited a less-heralded teammate—Luc Longley—for playing a pivotal role in this evolution.
A beneficial partnership
When MJ returned to the NBA in 1995 after his brief stint in baseball, his hunger for dominance was unmatched. The Bulls were trying to reclaim their glory, yet No. 23’s hyper-competitive nature often blurred the lines between leadership and relentless demand.
It defined every second of his approach to life—there was no in-between for “His Airness.” Mike would often get lost in his competitive spirit, especially after being out for some time. Luckily, Longley kept him in line.
“When you have people like myself who are somewhat aggressive, we live in every moment; we want to dominate every little moment, and we forget about how simple life is, how simple the moment may be. This is where he was a great teammate and helped me mature as a person,” Jordan said.
Chicago’s quest for its second three-peat required star power and cohesion. Longley, a 7-foot-2 center from Australia, joined the Bulls in 1994. While the big man lacked the aggressive style of play that MJ often gravitated toward, he brought something else to the team—an uncanny calmness that stood out amidst the whirlwind of the Hall of Famer’s dominance.
Offering his nature
The Aussie’s ability to stay composed in high-stress situations was a must for MJ and the Bulls. He became a quiet but essential counterbalance to the high-octane energy around him, embodying a philosophy that began to challenge the way the five-time MVP approached his leadership.
The big man became the first Australian to win an NBA title after being thrust into the forefront as the Bulls starting center in their historic 72-10 1995-96 season. He is also the only Aussie to win three titles after Jordan’s game-winning shot secured the Bulls’ sixth championship in the 1998 final against the Utah Jazz.
No. 23’s relationships with his teammates were primarily professional. He didn’t expect anything less than endless drive in practice sessions and during a game. However, his relationship with the Australian center was more than that, as they formed a loyal friendship on and off the court.