I wish someone told me about ESPN’s The Last Dance

“I wish someone had told me” is a series of posts that feed into our inquisitive nature at CN&CO. Each week we hear from someone in our network about something interesting or surprising that’s recently happened or occurred to them – or lessons they learnt. These blogs are a way to pay it forward and form part of CN&CO’s belief that the world can be a better place – and we all have a responsibility to make it so. This week’s post is by Gianluca (our resident Italian with a passion for sneakers and sport).

Before you read on in expectation of an article about dancing… This article won’t be talking salsa or another Latin move. Instead, this is about a different type of rhythm, not only of basketball but the mentality of the greatest number 23, Michael Jordan.

There has been a lot of buzz lately about ESPN’s incredible documentary on Netflix (called The Last Dance) focusing on that well-documented and iconic 1998 season of the great Chicago Bulls.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the world of sport has been on pause. This time has certainly given us a lot think about and certainly has made us find alternate things to do, watch, experience and I certainly hope, learn. For me, The Last Dance has certainly stood out. It’s reinforced my love and passion for sport.

Take a moment to watch this minute-long clip and then, if you are still intrigued, read the rest of the piece…

Taking the lead with a winner’s mentality

In context of the documentary and the sport, Michael is quite simply a freak of nature. His name is amongst the greats of sport. For me this includes the likes of Mohammed Ali, Serena Williams, Lionel Messi, and Tiger Woods. What MJ accomplished in his career and life, the journey, continues to inspire people all around the world.

While watching Episode 7, and in particular this clip, struck such a strong chord in me. An appreciation for individuals around me like Michael. His emotion say it all. Winning and our goals are not easy. We all want it, but it comes at a price. A price that not all of us are willing to pay or sacrifice. It means putting in the time and having the resilience. Understanding your surroundings. Pushing oneself (and those around you), no matter the judgments, opinions and reservations of others.

That’s what Michael demonstrated. Together with Phil Jackson (Bull’s Coach) and his team mates. Six NBA Championships that defined an era, a sneaker culture, a love for sport (and the game) achieved in both good and bad times. He led at a rhythm that he believed in. He won. He pushed his team mates but never asked of them what he didn’t ask of himself.

Gratitude.

I wanted to reflect and share on this particular element of The Last Dance. Michael’s approach reminds me of many leaders and people who have and continue to inspire me in my life. From my family and friends, to my CN&CO partners and the clients and relationships I get to deal with.

Now more than ever, we need to be clear on our purpose and realise that the road is never easy. Use the lessons of great people, talk to each other and make the time to play the game.

Watch The Last Dance, you won’t regret it.

Disclaimer: I wrote this piece wearing my pair of Jordan 1 Rookie of the Years. A sneaker released in honour of Michael being named Rookie of the Year in 1985 (the year I was born), and in my opinion what set the rhythm for the era of the greatest of all All-Time. I leave you with MJ’s quote when accepting the award: