Following in the footsteps of Ja Morant, the young talent challenged the legendary Michael Jordan for his birthday

NBA All-Star 2023 is not only the place where the top superstars of the American Professional Basketball League gather, competing in the 72nd All-Star game in NBA history.

It's also a stage for young talent in the NBA Rising Stars series, where top rookies and sophomores are selected to compete. One of them that has left an impression since Rising Stars has not even begun is Jabari Smith Jr.

Today is the birthday of basketball legend Michael Jordan. On this occasion, Jabari was asked if he could beat "Mr. Air" in a 1-1 match.

Showing sky-high confidence, the Houston Rockets rookie is not only ready to take on the legend, but believes he can win.

"Happy birthday to MJ, but I'm sure I will be able to beat him," Jabari Smith Jr. told reporters. . Definitely, 1000 percent."

Smith added that because the Chicago Bulls legend is older, he has full confidence in his ability to win. Maybe Michael will still score, but it won't be enough to be the winner.

“He is a great player. Sure Michael will get points, but he won't be able to pass me at the moment. Come on guys, if I let a 60-year-old beat me, I should probably retire now," the player born in 2003 added.

This explanation of Smith's seems reasonable and explains why he is so confident. The Houston Rockets are currently averaging 12.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game.

He is not the first to challenge and believe in his ability to defeat Michael Jordan, who was previously Ja Morant. The Memphis Grizzlies All-Star defender once said that he would "disturb" the owner of 6 NBA championship rings easily.

“I wish I could play in his generation. I really want to play against him and I'm sure I will beat him too," Morant shared a year ago about the legendary Michael Jordan.

“No one is more confident than me. I would never go out and say that one or the other beat me in a one-on-one match."

Yesterday - February 17 - was the 60th birthday of "Mr. Air." Not sure how with his famous winning streak, Michael Jordan will respond to a player worthy of his children's age.

But with his so clearly proven position, perhaps the Chicago Bulls legend will continue to shake his thighs, minding his own business and doing nothing.