Former Washington Wizards center Brendan Haywood had an instant connection with Michael Jordan during their time in the NBA because they were both from the University of North Carolina. However, Haywood confided that even though "His Airness" forged a bond with him, he still felt a bit awkward knowing that Jordan was both his teammate and boss at the same time.
Throughout that two-year stretch with Jordan, "Baby Huey" could tell the six-time NBA champion was fond of him on and off the court. But while that was a perk that not all Wizards players got to enjoy at the time, Haywood still never felt too comfortable with MJ due to the unusual setup of the team.
"Our relationship was cool just because I went to UNC," Haywood told HoopsHype of his time with Jordan in 2020. "I was the Carolina guy, so we had that bond going, that Carolina love. But at the same time, I understood the business that I was in. It was weird because MJ was also a front office executive at that time. He was still technically my boss, and he was playing on the team. Even though he liked me, I still never got super close to him. That was my boss."
Haywood had a teacher-student relationship with MJ
On the court, Haywood viewed his relationship with Jordan as more of a student-teacher dynamic. As a relatively young and inexperienced player at the time, "Baby Huey" saw MJ as a mentor who could impart invaluable wisdom and guidance to him.
Like any aspiring NBA star would’ve done, Brandon did his best to soak up everything he could from the greatest player of all time. He understood that it was more important to learn from Michael n than be friends with him.
"But practices were just so competitive," the 13-year NBA veteran recalled. "He was always pushing the envelope, gain an edge. Our relationship was more like a teacher and a pupil. He was teaching at all times and I was just trying to take it all in. I wasn’t trying to befriend him, but I knew there was so much I could learn from him."
MJ led by example
Despite being the GOAT and the team's part owner, Jordan didn't let his title and legacy define him during his time with the Wizards. Instead, the nearly 40-year-old proved that regardless of his status, he was there to play and win.
In his two-year stint with the Wizards, Jordan consistently demonstrated an impeccable work ethic and competitive spirit. Although he failed to help Washington make the playoffs, his impact on the team is still felt by his former teammates, including Haywood, to this day.
