Latest news with #LucLongley
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
"Not so much MJ, he's harder to track" - Luc Longley on why he keeps in touch with old Bulls teammates except for Jordan
"Not so much MJ, he's harder to track" - Luc Longley on why he keeps in touch with old Bulls teammates except for Jordan originally appeared on Basketball Network. Many decades have passed since the Chicago Bulls redefined what dominance looked like in basketball. Their dynasty, spanning six championships between 1991 and 1998, became a blueprint for greatness and a benchmark that remains nearly untouched. Advertisement For former towering Australian center Luc Longley, whose presence in the paint often went unnoticed beside the highlight-making stars, those years were more than just a run of titles. They were a brotherhood, a shared experience under relentless pressure and a bond formed in the heat of competition. Keeping in touch As the years stretch on, Longley, now long retired and based in Western Australia, has remained close with several of his old Bulls teammates, forming what he describes as a quiet but enduring circle. But not with all of them. 'I keep in touch with all of them, Phil Jackson, Steve Kerr, Scottie Pippen,' Longley said. 'Not so much [Michael Jordan], he's harder to track. I think he changes his phone once a week.' Advertisement It's the kind of remark that carries both a chuckle and a trace of honest distance. Michael Jordan, famously private and nearly mythic in stature since his playing days, has long kept the public and many of his peers at arm's length. While he's been seen courtside at games and delivering speeches during Hall of Fame ceremonies, Jordan remains a rare presence in group reunions or public meet-ups with former Bulls. Longley's words reflect a truth that even members of that sacred circle face, staying in touch with Jordan is as elusive as trying to defend him in his prime. During their years together, he developed a working relationship with Jordan rooted in mutual respect. While Jordan's intensity was legendary and often overwhelming, Longley held his own, never attempting to match his fire but never shrinking from it either. The five-time MVP would bark orders in practices, test teammates and set a tone of unwavering competitiveness. Longley, more laid-back by nature, absorbed it without drama. That quiet resilience made him a valued part of the system that Phil Jackson built. Advertisement Related: Michael Jordan shows off his $115 million luxurious superyacht in Croatia Playing with Jordan Longley's stats with the Bulls were never flashy — he averaged around nine points, five rebounds and two assists per game — but his role was never measured solely by box scores. He served as a connective piece, a reliable passer from the post and a smart defensive anchor. He blended with Jordan and Scottie Pippen's tempo without disrupting the offensive triangle, which made him a crucial cog in one of the most complex and effective systems in NBA history. The narrative surrounding Jordan's relationship with former teammates has always been layered. The 2020 documentary, 'The Last Dance,' while widely praised, reopened old wounds for some. Longley, notably, was one of the key players absent from the original cut, despite starting in all three championship seasons during the second three-peat. Advertisement The oversight became a larger conversation about how stories are told and who gets to tell them. In Australia, where basketball surged during Longley's years in the NBA, the omission was deeply felt. It was later addressed in a two-part ABC special titled 'Luc Longley: One Giant Leap,' where Jordan himself appeared in newly shot interviews, offering overdue praise that the Aussie giant was important to the Bulls. Even so, the gap between them today feels less personal and more practical. Longley, content in the quiet rhythm of life after basketball, doesn't seek the spotlight. Jordan, who is a global figure, is often surrounded by business commitments, appearances and the weight of legacy. Their paths don't cross often and maybe they were never meant to beyond the years they shared the hardwood. Advertisement Related: Kevin Garnett left Michael Jordan off his all-time starting five: "He is the god, and we copied him and s—t, but I got Kob' at my two" This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Phil Jackson recalled when Michael Jordan said he regrets staying with Chicago Bulls: "It weighed pretty heavy on everyone"
Phil Jackson recalled when Michael Jordan said he regrets staying with Chicago Bulls: "It weighed pretty heavy on everyone" originally appeared on Basketball Network. Coaching the best team in the NBA may sound like an easy job, but Phil Jackson would undoubtedly beg to differ. Advertisement As the head coach of the 1990s Chicago Bulls, Jackson played a crucial role in guiding the team and fostering a strong sense of unity and confidence among the players. Still, the job came with its challenges. In one moment of deep frustration, Jackson found himself questioning why he agreed to continue coaching the Bulls. Though the situation was already overwhelming, he revealed that what truly shocked him was when Michael Jordan echoed those sentiments — but with an unmistakably serious tone. "Sometimes in a film session, I get upset and wonder what we're doing, why we can't put it together consistently," the legendary coach said via ESPN. "The other day, I stopped the film after watching Luc Longley screw up again, and I just said, 'Everybody makes mistakes. And I made one coming back here with this team this year.' I meant it in sort of a lighthearted way. But then Michael says, 'Me too.' So, it weighed pretty heavy on everyone." Phil knew MJ was tired of losing too Well aware of Jordan's competitive drive and winning mentality, Jackson understood how the Bulls superstar felt whenever the team wasn't winning. And for all his coaching brilliance, he sometimes couldn't figure out what to do about it. Advertisement Throughout their time together in Chicago, Jackson consistently stood by Jordan no matter the circumstances. When the Bulls faced adversity, particularly early in the 1997-98 season, he prioritized ensuring his best player felt supported, emphasizing that he and the team always got MJ's back. "The room was charged. It was somber. Michael was somber," Jackson continued, describing the atmosphere in the Bulls locker room. "He doesn't play cards with the guys like he used to. He is serious. He hasn't smiled a genuine smile in two weeks. He's letting everyone know it's time. He said, 'It's over. We're not gonna lose anymore.' I'm sick of losing, too. What are we, 15-9? We should be 21-3. We lost 10 games in 1996 — the entire season." "I don't talk a whole lot to Michael during games, and I don't look at him on the court much either. I just have a feel for him. He'll let me know by making a signal, a fist or tap his chest, when he wants to come out. But the other night, I went down and patted him on the knee while he was on the bench, just to let him know we're with him," Phil added. Related: "I can't get so close to it, too, because of my competitive nature" - Michael Jordan on why he can't get himself to be a fan of any one player in the NBA The Zen Master kept himself motivated Entering his final season with the Bulls, Jackson was determined to set aside the tumultuous front office drama that had been swirling around the organization. The team was coming off an impressive streak, having secured back-to-back NBA championships, but the reality was that they were not performing at their best that year. Advertisement Jackson realized that Jordan was probably the most disheartened by the unfolding issues among everyone on the team. It was a crucial moment for the two as they needed to be aligned and focused to navigate the challenges ahead. Despite the obstacles that the team faced, The Zen Master managed to find motivation within himself. His resilience became a vital asset as he worked to maintain the team's spirit and unity during a season filled with uncertainty. "We have been having a little family turmoil, and some of it saddens me. But I'm not depressed," he said. "I feel I have every right to be happy in this life. I look around my office and all of the things in here — the Native American artifacts, the signs, the photos of the Dalai Lama and the Southwest — inspire me. Like those bull horns up there on the wall. Johnny Bach gave me that. He even painted my name on it. With the bull's testicles in the pouch tied in between. That inspires me." Jordan and Jackson found their rhythm Eventually, the Bulls managed to regain their rhythm. Jackson and Jordan gained the mental fortitude not to dwell on the negatives, utilizing their energy to unite the team. Ultimately, the two were able to lead the Bulls to another NBA title, completing their second three-peat. However, neither Jordan nor Jackson extended their contract with the Bulls. It was indeed their "Last Dance" as the team that dominated almost an entire era was disassembled by the front office for good. Advertisement Related: "He said, 'I heard you, but I really felt good'" - Phil Jackson recalled the moment Michael Jordan waved him off in a playoff game This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jun 21, 2025, where it first appeared.
West Australian
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- West Australian
Luc Longley: Former NBA champion stars alongside sports heroes Ash Barty and Raphael Nadal in new Kia ad
When you're seven feet tall like former Chicago Bulls star Luc Longley, poking at those hard-to-reach places around the house doesn't often require a ladder. The three-time NBA champion — now based in Perth — has joined a host of recognisable Aussie sports personalities to star in the latest Kia Tasman ad premiering tonight during State of Origin in Perth. Lacking the nimbleness of co-stars Ash Barty or former AFL gun Dane Swan, Longley is tasked with getting 'in the paint' as the famous figures give a run-down property some love. Even Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal, who's no stranger to clay, offers to get his hands dirty. Unfortunately, Longley suggests, raking in rebounds and providing assists to former teammate Michael Jordan came a little more naturally than getting hands-on at home ever has. Actually, it depends who you ask. 'It's funny, because my wife would say I'm really handy — my friends would say that I'm not,' he told The West Australian. 'I believe in horses for courses. If you want a job done right, you get a professional but I can turn my hand to anything, just probably do it badly, except, obviously for painting, because Ash (Barty) got the best.' Relocating to Perth in the last couple of years with wife and celebrity chef Anna Gare, Longley spent decades escaping the bright lights of the court and stresses of life in WA's tranquil South West region. In 1991, the 56-year-old purchased a property 15 minutes outside of Denmark upon turning professional. 'It was the first thing I bought with my professional basketball money. And I always wanted to have a sanctuary,' he said. Claiming the town was 'much sleepier back then', the HoopsFest ambassador was attracted to the natural landscapes and close proximity to the ocean. He even hosted fellow Sydney Kings co-owner Andrew Bogut, a fellow NBA champion, at his property recently as the pair took a dip in the majestic waters. But Longley wouldn't divulge all of his favourite hideaways. 'Secret spots aren't for giving up, but Greens Pool, Elephant Rocks, Madfish Bay, that whole chain of coast along there is for exploring, for sure,' he said. Longley admitted the pair don't always see 'eye-to-eye', but respect what the other has achieved as two of the premier seven-foot exports to find success in the NBA. As to who would win a one-on-one if each were in their prime, Longley would love to know as much as Aussie basketball fans might. 'I'd love to get in that time machine. Have a go at it,' he teased. 'I mean, he was quicker than me, which he'll happily tell you, so I probably would have had trouble with him in the in the full court, but I'd handle him in the half court. No worries.'
News.com.au
14-06-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
‘I don't feel sorry for Josh': Luc Longley's telling Giddey praise amid $46m NBA call
Australian basketball legend Luc Longley is backing Josh Giddey to prove his doubters wrong and lead the Chicago Bulls back to NBA glory as the young Aussie awaits a monster payday. The 22-year endured a rocky start to his time at the Bulls after being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder last off-season in exchange for defensive stopper Alex Caruso. Watch every game of The NBA Finals LIVE with ESPN on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer. But Giddey went on a tear after the All-Star break after Chicago traded Zach Lavine, averaging 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds and 9.3 assists — a near triple double — in the home stretch of the season. OKC went on to win a league-high 68 regular season games this year after Giddey's departure and the Thunder are currently trailing the Indiana Pacers 2-1 in the NBA Finals as they chase a championship with a formidable roster. But Longley, who was traded to the Bulls and won three championship as the starting centre playing alongside Michael Jordan in the 1990s, said he doesn't feel sorry for Giddey. 'I don't feel a single bit sorry for Josh,' Longley told ahead of the release of his new ESPN x Hahn documentary Lane Violation, which tracks his changing relationship with Andrew Bogut over the course of Bogut's career. Bogut, who won an NBA title with the Golden State Warriors, said the brutal nature of Giddey's benching by the OKC Thunder in last season's playoffs would sting. 'I mean he essentially got benched and was somewhat told that 'we can't win with him in the line-up',' Bogut told 'He's been on record saying he'd rather it happened now than in year seven, eight, nine, ten — and work out the kinks at an earlier age. 'But to some young guys that could derail you, that could mentally screw you.' Longley added about getting traded: 'It does, it motivates a lot of people. Certainly people love a story to rally behind and be motivated by.' Giddey became a near triple double machine in the back-end of the NBA regular season and the Bulls are expected to re-sign him as they are urged to lean into a rebuilding around a young core. 'He's bounced back even better for it and now you know second half of the year for him was phenomenal,' Bogut said. 'Chicago's gonna have to have to pay him, I think. I don't think they have any choice with the way the (salary) cap is.' Giddey and fellow Aussie Dyson Daniels, crowned the NBA's Most Improved Player, are set to receive massive contract extensions this off-season that will rocket the duo to the top of Australia's sporting rich list. Daniels and Giddey, who is a restricted free agent, are tipped to sign long-term extensions worth around US$30 million (A$46 million) per season. 'The money is just absurd,' Giddey's dad Warrick told Code Sports. If the Bulls can trade centre Nicola Vucevic this off-season, it would free up salary cap space to re-sign Giddey and build the team around the Aussie, Coby White, Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu. The Bulls have been in basketball no-man's land for several years — a regular in the NBA's play-in tournament — not bad enough to land a high draft pick but not good enough to challenge for playoff series wins. Chicago's six NBA championships came during Michael Jordan's time at the Bulls in the 1990s, and apart from Derrick Rose's MVP year and a couple of playoff runs, it's been a lean 27 years since the iconic franchise's last title. But Longley believes Giddey can help the Bulls rebuild and escape the NBA's purgatory in the middle of the standings. 'Yeah, I think his game can help.' Longley said. 'I think he's got a natural charisma that people like.' Longley highlighted Giddey's halfcourt buzzerbeater shot over the outstretched hands of LA Lakers stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic as potentially a pivotal moment in the point guard's career. 'I think that shot all by itself drew so much attention to the Bulls,' Longley said. 'For me, it was quite a poignant shot. 'I grew up with his dad playing basketball on national team and living in the Institute of Sport, and even still when I'm in Melbourne, I'm hanging out with his dad. 'So there's the Giddey connection. There's the Bulls connection. There's an Australian over there doing it the NBA. 'Then there's the fact it's over LeBron and Doncic — I particularly like the fact it's over the Lakers. It's just such a great shot. 'With Josh, I hope that they build the right pieces with him and around him. And I do believe in his appetite for it. 'I think he is supremely motivated by things more than money. He is deeply competitive.' The Lane Violation documentary follows the changing relationship between the only two Australian seven-footers to truly dominate in the NBA. When he was taken with the No. 1 pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2005, Bogut famously said he was not as slow as Longley and more athletic and competitive. Those comments didn't go down with well with Longley, who told Bogut to 'pull his head in' at the time. The towering centres went on to work together at the Australian Boomers and with the Sydney Kings, where Bogut has moved into an assistant coaching role.
