NBA “I Took That Personally” MOMENTS
Have you ever witnessed a basketball player step onto the court with a fire in their eyes, fueled by a personal vendetta against their opponent? These are the moments in the NBA where the phrase “I took that personally” truly comes to life. From rivalries to individual matchups, these moments showcase the fierce competitiveness and unwavering determination of some of the league’s greatest players. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most memorable “I took that personally” moments in NBA history.
Michael Jordan vs. Clyde Drexler
One of the most iconic “I took that personally” moments in NBA history came during the 1992 NBA Finals between the Chicago Bulls and the Portland Trail Blazers. Clyde Drexler, known for his scoring prowess and dynamic playing style, was often compared to Michael Jordan as one of the top shooting guards in the league. However, Jordan took offense to these comparisons and used it as motivation to elevate his game to another level. In Game 1 of the Finals, Jordan famously hit six three-pointers in the first half, sending a clear message to Drexler and the Blazers that there was no comparison between them. The Bulls went on to win the series in six games, with Jordan securing his second consecutive Finals MVP award.
LeBron James’ Revenge Games
LeBron James is no stranger to using personal slights as motivation on the court. Throughout his career, James has had numerous “I took that personally” moments where he has dominated games in response to criticism or doubters. One of the most memorable instances came during the 2012-2013 season when former Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert made disparaging comments about James after he left the team to join the Miami Heat. In his first game back in Cleveland, James put on a show, scoring 38 points and leading the Heat to a decisive victory. It was a clear message from James that he was not to be underestimated or disrespected.
Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality
Kobe Bryant was known for his relentless work ethic and competitive drive, often channeling any perceived disrespect into his performance on the court. One of the most famous “I took that personally” moments of Bryant’s career came during the 2006 playoffs when he faced off against the Phoenix Suns. After being criticized for shooting too much in a previous game, Bryant responded by scoring 50 points in Game 6 to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to victory and force a Game 7. Bryant’s commitment to proving his doubters wrong and his unwavering self-belief epitomized his “Mamba Mentality” and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Conclusion
These “I took that personally” moments in the NBA serve as a reminder of the fierce competitiveness and drive to succeed that defines the league’s top players. Whether fueled by rivalry, criticism, or personal challenges, these moments showcase the resilience and determination of basketball’s elite. As fans, we can only sit back and marvel at the incredible performances that arise when a player takes something personally and turns it into on-court dominance.
