The history between Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan is a long one. The pair of rivals have enough stories to publish a book. The stories of their rivalry have recently re-entered the public space. As Thomas has asked Jordan for an apology for his comments during “The Last Dance” documentary. Jordan has yet to respond to Thomas’ request. However, a former teammate of Jordan seems to know the reason behind Thomas’s hate.
Jordan has repeatedly mentioned that Charles Oakley was pivotal to his early playing days. Oakley was a member of the Chicago Bulls when Jordan was drafted by the team. The NBA legend was known for his physical presence during his playing days. Now, Oakley isn’t holding back on his feelings between Thomas and Jordan. In a recent interview with SHOWTIME Basketball, Oakley mentioned it was a thing of pride for Thomas and the town of Chicago. A shot that Thomas isn’t letting Oakley get away with.
Isiah Thomas Not Allowing Oakley To Discuss The Matter
Charles Oakley calls out Isiah Thomas for continuing to discuss Michael Jordan
“He came in your city and took your city. That’s why you’re really mad. He took over Chicago”
(h/t @ThePatrickPryor / via @shobasketball )
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) April 4, 2023
Oakley said he believes Thomas is angry that Chicago is now Jordan’s town. Thomas hails from Chicago, yet he is the furthest from being a hometown king. One of the reasons he isn’t a hometown king is Thomas’ Pistons owned the Bulls for some time. A moment in time that Thomas isn’t letting Oakley forget. Thomas tweeted back to Oakley’s statement, which was a good one. “I remember us kicking your ass a lot, some one please check my record vs any team he played on! Sit down be Humble,” stated the former Pistons guard.
Oakley did fail to overcome Isiah Thomas and the Pistons during his Bulls tenure. Even after moving to New York, Oakley never did grab that elusive NBA Championship. Now, after all these years, it seems as if the heat between the former players still burns. Athletes have long been known for having a strong-minded approach to the game. With Thomas and Oakley firing shots at one another, it seems the competitiveness never truly goes away. For more on the latest happenings inside the NBA, stay locked in here at HNHH.