I need Paul Pierce to have his microphone taken away. Immediately. The Truth (ironic nickname at this point) went on a podcast this week and claimed that Michael Jordan “didn’t have a bag.” He argued that because MJ didn’t do six crossovers, a step-back, and a hesi-tween before shooting, he lacked “skill” compared to modern players like Kyrie or Luka.
This isn’t just wrong. It is basketball treason.
Here is the reality check: The reason Michael Jordan didn’t dribble the air out of the ball for 18 seconds is because he didn’t have to.
Modern “bag culture” has convinced Gen Z that if you don’t make the defender dance, you aren’t skilled.
- Modern Player: Dribble, dribble, cross, spin, step-back. (Result: 2 points).
- Michael Jordan: Triple threat. Jab step. One dribble. Pull up. (Result: 2 points).
MJ was a predator. He was efficient. He killed you with the least amount of movement possible. That is the ultimate bag.
Saying MJ has no bag is like saying a sniper has “no aim” because he didn’t do a 360-degree spin before firing the shot.
If your “bag” requires you to dribble 15 times to get open, you aren’t skilled—you’re inefficient. Jordan’s footwork in the post? Flawless. His fadeaway? Unstoppable. His finishing at the rim? The best ever.
Paul Pierce had a great career. But let’s be honest: The only “bag” Pierce has right now is the one filled with bad takes he’s using to stay relevant.
Respect the GOAT.