Former NBA champions-turned-podcast co-hosts Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson have yet to interview Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan on their renowned “All The Smoke” podcast. However, Barnes remains optimistic they can land a sit-down with “His Airness.”
Since launching “All The Smoke” in October 2019, Barnes and Jackson have become two of the NBA podcasting world’s preeminent voices. They have interviewed league legends such as Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Charles Barkley, Magic Johnson, Dominique Wilkins and Isiah Thomas.
The duo have also conversed with other prominent celebrities and political figures, including U.S. presidential candidate Kamala Harris late last month.
On Thursday, NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson posted a clip on X/Twitter asking Barnes about the prospect of him interviewing Jordan. While the six-time NBA champion rarely makes media appearances, Barnes expressed optimism about him coming on his podcast.
Barnes noted that he and Jackson would like to learn more about Jordan’s illustrious Hall of Fame career.
“Man, I hope, MJ. I hope,” Barnes said. “… We want to hear his stories. We had a chance to jam with Dominique Wilkins yesterday, and he had a bunch of great Jordan stories, so I would love to just hear Mike talk.”
However, the former 14-year NBA veteran noted that he would also be cool seeing Jordan appear on other basketball podcasts.
“So, hopefully, it’s ‘All The Smoke,’ but if not us, anybody,” Barnes said.
Matt Barnes says Michael Jordan may be too “great” for podcasts
During his aforementioned interview, Matt Barnes added that Michael Jordan may be above podcast appearances.
“Sometimes when you’re just that great, you let the work speak for you, let everyone else speak for you,” Barnes said.
Nevertheless, Barnes reiterated that Jordan would likely be a fun person to spend time with, highlighting his interesting post-retirement hobbies.
“I know he’s got a lot to say. NASCAR and golf, and doing a bunch of cool s**t,” Barnes said. “So, I hope for one day, he’ll give in and sit down with us.”
However, it remains to be seen if Jordan will get Barnes’ memo and consider joining his podcast.
