“I wasn’t fazed by any of the Pistons,” MJ says, dismissing Rodman and the ‘Bad Boys’.

During the late ’80s to early ’90s, NBA fans watched the fierce rivalry between Michael Jordan and the Detroit Pistons, particularly the physical challenges posed by the “Bad Boys.” Fans sympathized with Jordan as they saw him endure relentless bullying on the court from Detroit.

Years later, MJ reflected on this tough period, offering surprising insights. While acknowledging the Pistons’ aggressive style and dirty tactics, he claimed they never bothered him. “Of course, our guy Dennis Rodman can be irritating. But he used to guard me when he was with Detroit, and I didn’t let him get to me. I didn’t get irritated by any of the Pistons, because that was their tactic, to get into your head,” Jordan said in a 1998 interview with ESPN.

His perspective shows how well Jordan understood the game and his rivalry with the Pistons as part of their strategy to gain an edge over him and the Bulls. It was clear that their rough play pushed Jordan to become a better, stronger, and more resilient player.

However, the rivalry didn’t end there. Isiah Thomas, the Hall of Fame point guard, was upset by Jordan’s comments, especially after Jordan called him an “asshole” in The Last Dance. Thomas demanded a public apology, stating that he wouldn’t engage in any conversation with MJ without one. “Until he apologizes on international television, ain’t no conversation,” Thomas said, emphasizing the importance of public accountability. As of now, Jordan hasn’t addressed the status of his relationship with Thomas.