Before our third game of 1-on-1 Saturday afternoon, former NBA great Chucky Atkins told me, “My goal is to hold you under 6 points this game.”  I replied, “My goal is to get 15,” to which he shot back with one eyebrow raised, “Well, that’s not gonna happen!”

I handed him the ball, crouched down on defense and said, “You gotta dream big!”

Kenneth Lavon Atkins, better known to most as Chucky, knows all about dreaming big.  Standing just 5’11” he’s by no means a big guy by NBA standards, but he’s gigantic when it comes to heart.

Chucky grew up in Orlando, Florida and starred at Evans high school.  From there the lightly recruited point guard took his talents to the University of South Florida where he played four years and tore up the conference, averaging just over 19 points and four assists per game his senior season.

Despite his stellar career at USF, Atkins went undrafted.  He never gave up though and continued to pursue his dream of playing professional basketball, first in the CBA and then overseas for two years.

Then in 1999, his lifelong dream to play in the NBA became a reality when he signed with his hometown Orlando Magic.

Atkins would go on to play 11 seasons in the NBA (retired in 2011) with career averages of just under 10 points and 4 assists.

It was while playing for Orlando where I first met Chucky Atkins – nearly 16 years ago.

Humility and Impact – 16 Years Ago

I began interning at the local ABC affiliate in 1997, just two years into my college life.  I was set on being a sports broadcaster and spent my nights and weekends cutting my teeth in video editing bays and behind the keyboard, doing my best to make the words I typed, “Sing and Dance!” as my former mentor Glen Dehmer would often say.

Those were fun times, and I learned a lot, but the real payoff for me was getting to go to the Orlando Magic games.  It was there that I sat courtside at the game I loved and to top it off, I got to do the post game interviews with the players.

I interviewed quite a few players in my day.  One of my very favorites was Chucky Atkins.

At that time, the press was allowed to interview players in the locker room, but once a player left the locker room they were in no way obligated to speak to anyone.

Chucky Atkins had a big game for Orlando that night and for whatever reason, I was late in getting to where I needed to be.

So as I’m making my way to the locker room, Chucky is leaving.  Atkins, now out the door and walking down the hallway towards me, stopped and gracefully obliged when I asked if I could possibly interview him.

With no scope of how most players would have reacted in that situation, this story may not seem like that big of a deal.

I’ve told people that story quite a few times over the last 16 years.  While I can’t remember what I asked him, the impact made on me that day was quite large.

Here was a guy at the top of his profession.  One of the best 450 in the World.  And he was so humble.  So down to earth.  So willing to help.

When others, at times, would give one word answers and seem bothered by anyone with a mic, it was refreshing to see someone on the far opposite side of the spectrum.

I’ve been a big Chucky Atkins fan since.

An Instagram Connection Leads to a Game – 16 Years Later

As I just wrote, I’m a Chucky Atkins fan, but I also believe that his journey correlates so well with every single person who has a dream.

His is a story of triumph from someone who was overlooked more than once.

His success, the direct result of his unwavering belief in himself coupled with his tremendous work ethic.

I hadn’t spoken to Chucky since his days with the Magic, as not too long after he was traded to Detroit, my time in TV ended as well.

But this past Thursday I decided to leave him a comment on one of his Instagram pictures, explaining my want for him to be a part of this journey.

To be clear – even with our interaction above, all those years ago – Atkins had no clue who I was.

Still, by 6pm that evening we were on the phone and I was sharing my journey to play Michael Jordan with him.

After just a few minutes of listening, the same humble Chucky said that he’d be happy to help!

And with that we were set for our one-on-one battle Saturday afternoon!

Me vs. Chucky Atkins

httpvhd://youtu.be/wcu0uTGBaok

(Video Link)

As you saw in the video, the games weren’t close.

We played four games in total and while I did my best, Chucky’s best was far better.

The scores were:  15-10, 15-6, 15-4, 15-0

The only times I scored were when he basically let me shoot.

Even with the beatings, I had a great time!

While playing Chucky Atkins, much like when I played DeShawn Stevenson, I couldn’t help but have moments where my mind was blown that I’m 1-on-1 on the court with him.  After a nice move by Chucky, I would find myself thinking – that was sweet and then snap back and think wait a minute that was against me, compete…haha!

It was very cool.

Straight Fire

At now 40 years of age, it took Atkins about a game to get warmed up (he did no shooting or stretching prior to checking the ball in).

But once he got in the groove, it was over.  You know the saying, “It’s like riding a bike”?  Well, Chucky Atkins’ bike is on fire!

This guy started pulling from everywhere.  Looking back, it was incredible to witness, even at my own expense.

Crafty and Strong

I wanted to be more physical than I had been in previous match-ups.

The first game I played up on him a bit more and used more arms, hands and body weight, but each time he’d use it against me.  So much so, that it changed my whole game plan.

He’s strong and has really large hands.  The kind that grab a ball off the court like it’s a grapefruit.  I was surprised how tough it was for me to move when he had a hand on me.  That, without a doubt, influenced what I tried to do and resulted in some not so great shot attempts at times.

Moves that Matter

A lot of guys do moves just to do moves.  Every move Chucky does has a reason.  His ability to handle the ball and quickly get into his shot was inspiring.

I kept thinking, how is this guy 40 years old and what was he like at 25!?!?

Still Quick

For all those that will leave a comment saying I should have played up on him more after watching him rain in three after three, thanks for the post game advice.

The reality is he is quick!  Really quick!

Competitive

He talks.  At times a lot.  It’s like a transformation once he’s on the court.  Competitive confidence at its peak.

A quick example.  After blasting me 15-0 in game 4, he yelled out in my direction, “That’s what you came here for right!  That’s what you came here for!”

I loved every bit of it!  It was all in good nature of course.  It actually made me feel like I did back in the day growing up playing on the local courts, except I couldn’t talk back too much to Chucky, haha!

Kind Words and Support from a Great Guy

After the games and the pictures, Chucky let me know that if there is anything else he can ever do to help, to not hesitate to reach out and ask.  He told me he really likes what I’m doing and is here to support!

To respond to an Instagram post from someone you don’t know and to then agree to play just two days later is absolutely amazing.

As my friend Andy Gebru, who knows Atkins, said when we talked about the happenings of the last couple of days, “That’s Chucky!”

Dreams + Faith + Hard Work = Chucky Atkins

When I look at Chucky Atkins, I see a lot of myself.  Not from a basketball standpoint of course, but as a dreamer and doer.

Chucky grew up, a kid dreaming of playing in the NBA, even though he really had limited exposure to the league until the Orlando Magic came to town.

He loved the game so much that he used to sneak into Magic games and at 14 years of age even made his way into the Orlando Magic practice facility while the team practiced.  He soon realized that as long as he sat there quietly, they would let him stay and watch.

With that the dreamer began to study the game he loved so much.

Chucky understood even as a young man, that if he was going to make his dream come true one day, he had to know what it took to get there.  So he sat there, watched and learned.  He would then implement the drills and moves that he saw during those practices into his own workouts.

And every time someone overlooked him, it just motivated him to work harder.

After being cut by the Vancouver Grizzles literally hours before the start of the regular season his first year out of college, Chucky became even more determined to realize his dream.

For the next four years he played and trained literally every single day.  That’s Monday through Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  Most days at least six hours a day.  Some days, from the time he got up, to the time he went to bed.

“I’d go play ball.  Then I’d do some skill work.  Then I’d go to another court and play.  Then I’d lift weights and go play some more. My feet would hurt.  My knees would hurt.  But if I wasn’t doing something with a basketball, I just always felt that someone else was out there getting better,” Atkins said.

Chucky went on, “I took my first break from basketball after my rookie season with the Orlando Magic.  By the time the season ended I had tendinitis in my knees so bad that it was tough to walk.  But I was determined to realize my dream.“

I asked Atkins where his internal confidence to always believe – no matter the obstacle – came from.

“That comes from my Dad.  He always told me that if I do the work, the rest will take care of itself.  A lot of people say I’m cocky, but I don’t see it that way.  I just don’t see anything wrong with believing in your abilities.  I know the work I’ve put in, so why not be confident,” he said.

In a phone call Sunday night he shared, “Just like people have told you that your dream will never happen, but now look what’s happened and you’re over four years in.  So many people told me I’d never play in the NBA, and I ended up playing 11 seasons.  I always believed, no matter what.“

“And if I had a dime for every time someone said I was too short to play in the NBA, I’d be Mark Cuban right now,” said Atkins.

Still Dreaming Big

After spending the last couple of seasons coaching Evans, his former high school, I asked Chucky what he has planned next.

“Coaching at the collegiate or professional level.  I’ve had some discussions with coaches and teams,” he replied.

Loving what I heard I told him, “So you’re still dreaming big.”

Enthusiastically, he quickly responded, “Absolutely!  Got to.  I’ve got a lot still left to accomplish.  A whole lot.“

I couldn’t agree more.

Chucky Atkins is a special guy.  One that I’m happy to now call my friend and supporter!

mevsMJ.com…the journey continues!

Thank You!

Again, thank you so much Chucky Atkins for believing in and supporting my dream!  I greatly appreciate you!  Your kindness and willingness to help inspires me!

Also, I must thank my guys Avery and Anthony Brown for capturing all of the great video of our games.  You are great young men, my little brothers and I’m thankful for you.

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

####

Connect: Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

Since the day I began really playing basketball, some 23 years ago, I’ve dreamed of walking onto a basketball court, lacing up my Jordans and matching up against one of the World’s best – an NBA Player.

On Friday, January 17th, that lifelong Dream came true when I went head-to-head with NBA Champion, DeShawn Stevenson!

DeShawn Stevenson – The Player

At 19 years of age, DeShawn Stevenson was the 23rd selection in the 2000 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz – right out of high school.  Known as a prolific scorer (30.4 ppg) with off the charts athleticism out of Washington Union high school, DeShawn became the youngest player to ever start for Hall of Fame coach Jerry Sloan and the Utah Jazz.

Throughout his 13 year NBA career, DeShawn has played for the Utah Jazz, Orlando Magic, Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks (Won NBA Championship), New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn Nets), and the Atlanta Hawks where he spent last season.

Released by the Hawks in August, DeShawn is now staying in shape and training with Orlando Hoops, while he looks to land a spot on a championship contender’s roster sometime this season.

DeShawn Stevenson – The Person

Before I get into the dream.  Before I tell you about the games versus DeShawn, I’ve got to tell you about the man I met Friday afternoon.

I don’t type the next few words lightly – I pound the keys to share that DeShawn Stevenson is one of the NICEST PEOPLE I’VE EVER MET.

That isn’t me being kind or being thankful, which I am, for the experience.  It’s me sharing the biggest takeaway, personally, of the entire event.

I was blown away.

I asked DeShawn, after our games, if he gets approached a lot by people to play basketball.

I asked because for the 3 years and 5 months I’ve been on this journey to play Michael Jordan, I’ve been trying to figure out how to get someone in the NBA to play me.

I’ve asked over 20 NBA guys to play – in person (some on an actual basketball court) – and they’ve all declined.

I had wondered if being asked to play when you’re one of the best, was a constant.

His answer spoke volumes.

He stated that while he does get asked for pictures often at places like the airport…he doesn’t really get approached to play.  His thoughts as to why that is the case, most likely the perception that is out there about him.

When Perception – Is Not – Reality

DeShawn Stevenson is every bit of 6’5″.  He’s intimidating on the court with a strong and athletic build.  He’s got more ink than a printer cartridge, making up numerous tattoos that cover his body.

He’s got a lot of heart too.

His most recent tattoo, a picture of one of his closest childhood friends who recently and tragically passed away.

To watch him on an NBA court, he’s a ferocious, in your face, defender.  He fears no one.  Confidence spilling out of every pore.

Off the court – at least in my interactions with him on Friday, I saw a different guy.

• He’s the kind of guy that shows up a few minutes late and apologizes.
• He’s the kind of guy who, after finding out that the first few minutes of our game wasn’t recorded, says “Don’t worry, we can play a best of 5 games series so that you have plenty of video!”
• He’s the kind of guy who says, “best of 5 game series” when he knows he can beat me easily every single time.
• He’s the kind of guy that insists that I get the ball first and AFTER I make my first shot, asks where my feet were and then explains that for me the college line (which my feet were behind) will count for 2 points, but for him the NBA line will count for 2.  When I plead that I too will only count behind the NBA line as 2 pointers, DeShawn insists that I keep the 2 points (up 2-0) and continue to use the shorter distance to my advantage.
• He’s the kind of guy that willingly puts on one of my mevsMJ.com shirts and takes picture after picture to make sure it’s just right.
• He’s the kind of guy that drives over 40 minutes – one way – just to play me.  Just to HELP.

I reached out to a friend of mine in the NBA, that I’ve met through this journey, who didn’t know I was going to play or meet DeShawn, but that I later found out has known DeShawn since high school.

I shared the impact of DeShawn Stevenson’s kindness on me.

I asked, is that the guy you know as well?

He responded, “D Steve is incredible.  Best teammate anyone could have.”

Me vs. DeShawn Stevenson

– Before the Game –

I arrived at Orlando Hoops just after 11am on Friday.  There was an abnormal chill in Central Florida air.

Truthfully, I was nervous.

I warmed up with my brother, wanting to be as loose as possible, while at the same time trying to conserve every bit of energy for what was about to take place.

I didn’t know what to expect.

Would this NBA Defensive stopper jump on me and make quick work of my efforts?

Would he come to send a message?

I had no clue what his outlook would be on the game – or on my journey.

During the prior couple of days, after finding out that “G” (Coach Gerrod Trytten of Orlando Hoops) had reached out to DeShawn to set up the game – my mind flashed with random moments of DeShawn’s playing career.

From his days as a McDonald’s All-American all the way throughout his playing time in the NBA, I knew a lot about DeShawn Stevenson.  I had seen him posterize some of the best.  I had watched him lock up offensive scoring machines.  I had seen him gladly take on the challenge of LeBron, Wade, Kobe, and yes, even Michael Jordan.

When I told my brother that I was going to play DeShawn Stevenson, with an oh my goodness tone, he said, “Wow!  That’s HUGE!  Your dream is coming true man!”

We’re a basketball family, so I went into these games with much respect.

My brother left work, just to come record and watch.  He was living the dream as well!

– My Mindset Going Into the Game –

To some reading this, the next few words may sound really weak, but I honestly just wanted to score at least once.

I’ve been exposed to enough REAL basketball on this mevsMJ.com journey to know that I stand no chance against anyone in the NBA, much less someone with defensive prowess like Stevenson.

I play, with all I have, because I love this game.  Because an experience like this, as I’ve already said, is a childhood dream come true for me.  I play to hopefully inspire you, whether you play basketball or not, in your own life.  I play, to show you that anything is possible with faith and hard work!  I play, to give you a real life, go out and grab it example that dreams DO come true!

And even though I know deep down I have no shot of winning, once the ball is checked in, I play to win.

– The Game Begins – The First Shot –

DeShawn hands me the ball, crouches down on defense and the game begins!

After a couple of jab steps, I know with the space he’s giving me that I have a chance to get my shot off.

This is ideal, because shooting is what I do!

So as quickly as I can, I rise up – hopeful – from 21 feet at the top of the arc and let the dream flyyyyyyy.

SWISHHHHHHH!

At that moment, every imaginary game, every make believe buzzer beater against an NBA player when I was a kid, came true!

Sure the game was just 2-0, but to me, everything I had dreamed of as a young man, desperately learning this game of basketball, came to fruition!

DeShawn Stevenson made it come true.

– The Results –

In the end, DeShawn and I played three games of 1-on-1 Friday.

Yes, the five game series he was so kind enough to do, was a sweep, haha!

The scores of each game:

Game 1:  15-8 (The first two of my points – not captured on video)

Game 2:  15-3

Game 3:  15-4

– The Truth – He Took It Really Easy On Me –

As you will see in the video below, DeShawn’s kindness was also shown in his effort against me.

He knew he could blast me 15-0 if he wanted to.

And while I had told him before the games began, “If you can keep me from getting a shot off, I want you to do that.  Don’t take it easy on me.” – what I witnessed was that his goal wasn’t to prove how much better he was than me.  His career shows that.

Instead, I think he knew he was fulfilling a dream for a guy with BIG dreams.

He knew he would win, but I believe he wanted me to feel accomplished as well.

– Intimidated – Beat At My Own Game – But I Got Better! –

DeShawn’s size bothered me.

It made me rush shot attempts from a little further out than I probably would have liked.

Because he was cruising – I was given numerous chances to score.  But adrenaline mixed with fatigue got the better of me.

In the end, he beat me at my own game – shooting.

He rained in NBA three after NBA three.

Finally in game three, I tried to apply more ball pressure, but to no avail.

By the time I realized he wasn’t going to take me to the basket and make a poster out of me, the games were over.

I got better though because he showed me that I really need to work on shooting quicker, from deeper, and also work on getting to the basket and finishing strong against much larger defenders.

He also explained after the games, every single tendency of my game.  He knew when I was going to shoot and when I was going to drive.  He broke me down to myself in detail (I won’t share because players will use it against me) which left me amazed.  He had me figured out in a handful of minutes.

That’s one glaring difference maker in the approach of an NBA player.

It’s never been more evident that I need to work diligently on mixing up my game.

Even in defeat though, I learned a lot and thus – I got better!

So without further ado…here is Me vs. DeShawn Stevenson!

Me vs. DeShawn Stevenson (Video)

httpvhd://youtu.be/N5L61sXA-zo

 (link to video)

 Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

If you’ve been following my journey for awhile, you know about the struggle.  You know how many rejections came before this amazing YES.

I’ve been telling you that Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work for a couple of years now and THIS IS A HUGE EXAMPLE of that.

Life can be hard at times – no doubt.  There are going to be ups and downs and sometimes it seems as though there are just downs and more downs.  But you’ve got to keep believing!  You’ve got to keep pushing!

I believe we were all created to do amazing things!

My goal on this journey and through this experience with DeShawn is to motivate you to move in a positive direction.

To look at me and say IF HE CAN DO THAT, SO CAN I!

mevsMJ.com isn’t about basketball.  It’s about life.

1 game – me vs. Michael Jordan – the amazing journey continues!!!

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THANK YOU DeShawn Stevenson!  Thank you for taking the time to make a dream come true.  Thank you for being an example for so many others.  Thank you for inspiring me and those that follow this journey.  You’ve made a HUGE difference and for that I am forever grateful.

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Special Thanks to Orlando Hoops!

I have to give a special shout out to Gerrod Trytten and the entire Orlando Hoops family for constantly and consistently BELIEVING in me and my journey!  Without their willingness to HELP none of this would have been possible.

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

####

Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

On Friday, the 20th day of December 2013, Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work, was proven once again as I spent the morning on a basketball court with Orlando Magic Legend, Nick Anderson!

For over two hours, the man that has created so many memories for fans over his career in college and the NBA, made some lasting memories for me by taking time out of his day to share stories, lessons, and time on the court as I continue my journey towards playing Michael Jordan.

The Nicest Guy

The Friday before, at a friend’s urging, I sent Nick a text message asking if he’d be open to doing something with me for the site.  Over two years ago, to my surprise, Nick called me one morning to encourage me on my journey.  I’d had his number since that time and while we had sent messages back and forth over the years, schedules just never seemed to match up.

The man is very busy.  Busy helping, that is.  I believe since our time together he has made at least 5 to 6 appearances in the community, donating his time to make a difference.

But about an hour after I sent the text, we were on the phone talking once again.

This time everything aligned and a week later we were on the court shooting and talking about defense, offense, trash talking, tricks of the trade and of course the steal against MJ!

Nick couldn’t have been any nicer.

In the more than two hours we spent together, he never seemed rushed at all.

“I’m going to walk you over and introduce you to Michael.” – Nick Anderson

As we closed out our time together, I asked Nick if he would take a picture with me wearing one of my mevsMJ.com shirts.  He said, “Absolutely!”

Then as he unfolded the shirt, he read the message printed on the back that I’ve been sharing and is the slogan for this journey, Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

He then called his brother over, who was there with him, and read it again to him, closing with, “I like that!”

That of course set me on a path to explain how those eight words came about and what they mean to me.  I told him how difficult the journey has been and how most are quick to say that what I’m looking to do is impossible.  That most would believe that spending time with Nick Anderson, which I had just done was impossible.  And that my journey beyond the game is to inspire others and show that you can accomplish anything in your life if you believe and work tremendously hard.

I told Nick that him spending time with me was not only a dream come true for me, but that through his willingness to help, he would inspire so many people in their own lives.

Nick then said, “You know what I’m going to do.  The next time the Charlotte Bobcats are in town, I’m going to make sure you’re at the game.  You know MJ usually comes to the game.  Well, I’m going to make sure you’re there and I’m going to walk you right over and introduce you to him.  MJ’s my guy.“

My Time with Nick Anderson (Video)

httpvhd://youtu.be/OZS5pY4Cz8g

(link to video)

An Act of Kindness

In the couple of days since this all took place, as I’ve reflected, I’ve become even more amazed at the kindness and selflessness of Nick Anderson.

There was no real benefit for him to take time out of his day to spend with me this past Friday.  I told him as much on the phone prior to our meeting, but all he kept saying is that he looked forward to getting out on the court with me and helping.

It was an act of kindness.

One that I will always appreciate.

One that I hope inspires you in your own life and dreams to BELIEVE a little more.

Thank you so much Nick!

Dreams DO come true my mevsMJ.com family!

What’s next?  Stay tuned!

1 Game.  me vs. Michael Jordan.  The anything is possible with faith and hard work journey continues!

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Special Thanks to Orlando Hoops

I have to give a special shout out to Irwin Hudson, Gerrod Trytten and the entire Orlando Hoops family for opening up the lab for me, just for this special time with Nick Anderson.  Without their facility, time, and friendship, none of this would have been possible.

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

####

Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

On January 16th, Corey Maggette of the NBA’s Detroit Pistons found me on Instagram and it changed everything.

Just 11 days later, after some messaging back and forth between myself and Corey, I was at the Orlando Magic vs. Detroit Pistons game on Sunday to meet him, thank him for his kindness and to hand deliver a mevsMJ.com shirt!

Me and Corey Maggette (Video)

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcYb4dBIyOc

One Man’s Kindness

It’s amazing what one seemingly simple “like” on an Instagram picture can do.

Mind blowing, the chain of reaction that one’s kindness, can begin.

After the game on Sunday, I asked Corey how he found me and he told me that he’s just always searching around for things.

His search, turned into a “like”, which led to a retweet of this site to his +1 million followers on Twitter and then 11 days later, me meeting him in person and hand delivering a mevsMJ.com shirt!

I mean, it is overwhelming that an NBA player like Maggette knew me when he came out of the locker room.  Just wild that he has my shirt.  Wow!

For me, it was awesome to have the opportunity to thank Corey in person for helping me show others, like YOU, that everything I’ve been saying is true!  Anything really Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

He allowed me to tell him all about my journey, never seeming rushed and listening intently the entire time.

I could tell he got the bigger purpose behind what is mevsMJ.com.

Truly, such a nice guy.

Maggette’s kindness also led to more….

Joe Dumars and Bo Outlaw

While waiting for Corey to come out of the locker room I was able to share my faith and my journey to play Michael Jordan with two former NBA greats, Joe Dumars and Bo Outlaw.

Both were kind, generous with their time, extremely encouraging and genuinely interested in the mission.

At one point, as I was describing what this journey is about and all that has happened thus far, I said to Joe, “God is so amazing!”

Joe smiled, shook his head in acknowledgement and replied, “That’s why I’m (Joe) standing here talking with you right now.”

Before we took the picture and he left to make his way to the team bus, he encouraged me to stay persistent in my pursuit.

I most certainly will!

me vs. Michael Jordan…the amazing journey continues!  As always, thank you for following along!

1 Game – me vs. Michael Jordan…it’s GOING to happen!

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Fan Page.

Charlotte, NC – 

It was last Wednesday afternoon, in the 23^rd month of this journey, and there he was, Michael Jeffrey Jordan – the six rings, the 32,292 points, the 6x NBA Finals MVP, the game winners, the G.O.A.T, the reason I play basketball and the inspiration for this site.

Just minutes after his welcoming speech at the 4^th Annual Charlotte Bobcats Fantasy Camp, he stood alone on the side of the court as the camp staff ushered us off, so that group photos could be taken.

I was just feet from Michael Jordan, the MJ in mevsMJ.com and I almost didn’t approach him.  Internally I battled as to whether or not it was the right time.

I figured surely I would see him again or would I?

Hours Before

In an oversized chair located in the dimly lit lobby of a Charlotte hotel, I sat and reflected.  I thought about all of the places this journey had taken me, what I’ve learned about myself and others, the people that have encouraged, supported and helped and of course those that have been less than stellar in my pursuit.

I was just hours away from, well I wasn’t exactly sure, but what I did know was that Michael Jordan would be there and with that came an opportunity to realize the dream.

An Unexpected Phone Call

Two weeks prior, at an all day breakfast joint in downtown Orlando, in between bites of omelet and sips of coffee, I received an unexpected phone call from Charlotte, North Carolina that changed everything.

The caller after having identified himself as being with the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats, said he was calling to make sure my experience with the Bobcats had been a good one this year.

I thanked him for calling, but explained that I hadn’t been to a game, which left him in silence.

He asked, really?

He regrouped and said that perhaps I had attended a concert or some sort of an event at the arena this year.

When I let him know that I had never been to Charlotte and that I in fact lived just outside of Orlando, Florida, he couldn’t believe it.

Still surprised and probably not quite sure where to take the conversation at that point, he closed with, “Well, I’m not really sure how we have your information, but if you are ever in the area and you’d like to come to a game, please let me know if I can help.”

I thanked him again and then right before we ended the call an image of a 48 year old Jordan dunking flashed through my head.  With nothing to lose, I figured I would ask about the event that was held last year in which MJ did this.  He knew what I was referring to, so I then asked if they would be doing a similar event again anytime soon.

He let me know that the Bobcats were and within hours I was confirmed for the camp to be held exactly two weeks later!

Nerves

I’m not someone that generally gets very nervous.  I don’t get star struck either, ever.  My time in sports television cured me of that as a young man.

I admit, sure I was a little nervous/excited before my speech at the Chandler Parsons basketball camp recently.  I think that’s normal though, as I just wanted to do my best and make an impact on the young people.  I was excited before my time with Mark Cuban.  More excited than nervous before playing pros.  All what I would say are quite normal feelings.

This whole trip to Charlotte was at another level though.  I had adrenaline overload for almost the entire 14 days leading up the the camp!  Sleepless nights on the regular.  I’d wake up at 2am and think it was time to go get some makes in.  That happened multiple mornings.  The day of the camp I had to force myself to eat.

I suppose it was all of the unknowns, the uncontrollables.  Would I get to speak with Michael, would he like what I was doing, would he agree to play, would he get that my goal is bigger than a game of basketball?

I didn’t know any of the answers to those questions, but that is where I had to lean on my faith.

There wasn’t an ounce of me that thought that the phone call I received was any kin to the word accident.

Shoot Around & My mevsMJ.com Shirt

I arrived at the arena right at 4:30 pm, checked in and was given a nice big Jordan brand bag, branded shorts, shirt, socks and Gatorade.

I changed like everyone else into the given attire, with one exception.  Instead of donning the sweet Jumpman camp shirt, I slid my mevsMJ.com shirt over it.

I had thought I would just warm up with it on and then take it off, as it isn’t a dri-fit type of shirt, but rather a cotton one.  That of course means it can get a little hot.

After 30 or so minutes of shooting though, it hit me.  The day wasn’t about me shooting the ball well or performing well.

My sole purpose was to get my message to Michael Jordan – and with that I decided to wear the shirt the entire time.

I’m glad I did.

Me and Michael Jordan

As everyone was making their way off the court for group photos, I took a step towards Michael, then still battling myself internally a step away, before deciding to just go for it.

I walked up, introduced myself to Michael Jordan and then the man I watched dominate so many basketball games, made it so easy.

After the intial hello, I asked while pointing to my shirt, “Have you had a chance to check out my site mevsMJ.com?”

He leaned around and read it aloud, “me verses MJ dot com”

I interjected, “I gave you a card down in Orlando.“

He began to smile as he shook his head no, saying “mevsMJ.com.  No, no, I haven’t had a chance to check it out, but I’m going to go upstairs right after we are done taking pictures and take a look!”

I began telling him what I was looking to accomplish, what the site has become, when he then reached back and got the attention of Bobcats President and COO Fred Whitfield.

He said, “Hey Fred, you gotta check this out.  He’s got a site called mevsMJ.com.  We’ve got to go check that out upstairs as soon as we are done here.”

Fred nodded in agreement as we spoke.

Explaining that my purpose was bigger than basketball, I then turned around and asked Michael to read the back of my shirt.

He placed his hands on my shoulders and read the message I’ve been spreading aloud, “Anything is Possible with Faith & Hard Work”.

He then read my name which runs vertically on the back of the shirt and said with one of his famous mannerisms, “OK, I’m going to check it out!”

As I took a step away, he asked, “Is it hot?”

Looking back, before I could respond, he asked again, “You got anything hot on the site?”

I said, “Of course!”

He then smiled again and said, “OK, I’m gonna go upstairs, check it out, and then come back down here and tell you if it’s hot or not!”

I laughed and said, “Sounds good!”

Video of Me and Michael Jordan

Here is some video from my interaction with Michael Jordan.

 httpvh://youtu.be/wnA1goOWwxU

[If you are reading this via email/feed – click here to watch video.]

Fantasy Camp

With my group, I took my photo with Michael and the other coaches.

I then went through the camp, won the shooting contest and was the last person to leave the arena.

The ushers actually had to come take the ball from me, but not before I made my 10^th free throw in a row.

Michael never came back down, but I fully understood as he and the Bobcats’ staff was working on a possible trade for the team.

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work

After 23 months of effort, thousands upon thousands of words, through training at all hours, the injuries, rejection, doubt and pessimism, through life changing experiences, to the testing of everything I believe in, on July 11th, 2012, the dreamer won!

I’ve always believed that if the purpose was pure, that ANYTHING Is Possible with FAITH and HARD WORK!

Sure, Michael and I haven’t played 1-on-1 yet.

But we all know, it’s only a matter of time now.

me vs. MJ…the journey continues!  As always thank you for following along.

Me and Michael Jordan Photos

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[To see full images – click here]

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Fan Page.

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If you’re new to the site, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

httpvh://youtu.be/SfN16daQ300

When I began this site with my rather large dream of playing my childhood hero Michael Jordan 1-on-1, back in August of 2010, I knew then that I’d need a lot of help.

I knew I could work on my game and get in the best shape of my life and do all of the things that I could control, but that in the end it would take the HELP of someone else to make my dream come true.

I never thought that when I began this mevsMJ.com journey that I would be placed in a position to HELP someone else’s dream come true, but on Thanksgiving Day, that’s just what happened.

Just as I was getting ready to head over to my parents to enjoy the Thanksgiving festivities, I received the following email from a young man sharing his dream with me.

Hello,

I just found your website mevsMJ.com.  What a great idea and website! You are an inspiration for me. I also am a big fan of Eric Griffin from Campbell University and I saw that you interviewed him. He is a great dunker and a great all around player. Do you know how I might get in touch with him? Maybe you have his email or phone number? I’ve been a Campbell University fan my entire life. I’m 13 years old and I’ve loved them my whole life cuz my favorite uncle went there for college and I want to go there too. I just want to tell Eric how much I like watching him play basketball. Maybe one day I can play at Campbell too.

Thank you for your great website and for any help you might offer to get in touch with Eric Griffin. 

Sincerely,

Adam Thompson

Me and Eric Griffin

If I think about how I met Eric Griffin and now perhaps why I met him, it makes me appreciate this amazing walk of mine so much more!

Shooting alone in an empty gym one morning back in May, I met Coach Kevin Sutton.  We talked about my journey to play MJ and within minutes Coach Sutton, one of the kindest men I’ve met, was inviting me for an informal workout with a group of high level ball players, so that I could better my game.

I went to the first workout and as fate would have it, was paired with Campbell University’s high flying Eric Griffin.  Through the some two-hour session, we did ball handling drills, shooting drills, and so on with one another.

Eric impressed me with who he was as a person, as much as he did with his sick basketball game, so when I came up with the idea of 23 Questions, a sort of informal interview that would allow some insight into the lives of the best basketball players I knew, I thought immediately of Eric.

Now some seven months from when Eric and I initially met, the reason for our meeting, came to light in an email from a young man, just 13 years of age.

Thanksgiving Day Dreams

When I got Adam’s email I was immediately almost overwhelmed with emotions, because I know what it was like to send an email filled with hope.  I’ve sent tons of them during this journey.  Too many to count at this point.

Most people I’ve reached out to, never respond.  Some brush me off with a less than half hearted response and then no longer reply when I kindly continue to pursue their assistance.  Others have cast their negative views on my walk, missing the whole point along the way.

I’ve always done my best to quickly shake my head free of the hurt and push forward, but honestly at times it’s been tough.

So when I received Adam’s email, I spent a good period of time at Thanksgiving dinner working on making his dream come true.

Because I knew I could!

“I would love to!”

Between the love filled food and family stories at Thanksgiving dinner, I sent Eric Griffin a message telling him that I had just received the coolest email from a young man that was a big fan of his.  I went on with how it would be amazing if it turns out that Adam is local to set something up so that he could meet him!

It took Eric less than a minute to reply with, “I would love to!”

I told him great and then forwarded him Adam’s email so that he could read it for himself.

Adam’s Dream Comes True

Less than 24 hours from Adam’s initial email to me I received another email from him:

Hello Kenny,

Thank you so much! I got email from Eric! WOW!!!!! Best present I got in a long time! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Eric asked about coming to his game and my mom says maybe later in season. WOW!!! I am trying to do interview with Eric for school cuz I have homework to interview someone who works in the job I want when I grow up. Thank you Kenny. I hope you play Michael Jordan!

Sincerely,

Adam Thompson

Dreams Do Come True!

So I’m going into the 16^th month of mevsMJ.com and while my dream of playing MJ still hasn’t come true, it’s the best feeling in the world to play a part in helping someone else’s dream come true!

I’d like to give HUGE SHOUT OUT and THANKS to my man Eric Griffin (@The21Story) for being so kind and willing to take the time to impact someone’s life in such an amazing way!

Adam closed his email to me fittingly, filled with hope.  I too hope I get to play Michael Jordan one day soon, but until then, helping Adam is just fine with me!

me vs. MJ…the dream filled journey continues!  As always, thank you for following along!

Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Fan Page.

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More on Eric Griffin

Through the first six games (5-1) of the season, Eric Griffin leads the Fighting Camels of Campbell University in almost every category, averaging 21.1 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks, while shooting a staggering 74% from the field and 60% from three point land.

On top of all of that, he can now add something even more important to his statistics, making one dream come true!  A class act for sure!

We all have the ability to impact others in a way that could very well change the course of how they approach life!  On this day, the dreamer who took action in the form of an email wins!  Eric and I have won as well!  Go get your dreams!