Jalen Hurts explains why Michael Jordan is one of his idols: "I love the desire to win that he had"
Jalen Hurts was compared to Michael Jordan following the Philadelphia Eagles' 38-7 victory against the New York Giants in the NFC divisional round. As it turns out, Hurts considers Jordan one of his idols because of his desire to win at any cost.
In an interview with Zach Berman of The Athletic, Hurts discussed the influence MJ had on him growing up that extended to his NFL career. The 24-year-old quarterback expressed his admiration for the Chicago Bulls legend, who many consider the greatest basketball player ever.
"He's an idol of mine," Hurts said. "I love Mike. I love how he impacted the game. I love how he carried himself in the game. I love the desire to win that he had. That's a hero of mine."
Jalen Hurts celebrated winning the NFC championship and earning his first trip to the Super Bowl like Michael Jordan. Hurts had a cigar in his hand while wearing a pair of Jordan 12s and a hoop earring in his left ear.
The MVP favorite also has a poster of Jordan in his locker room. It's an image of MJ celebrating and pumping his arms with a quote saying:
"Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, and others make it happen."
Hurts wasn't even born when Jordan won his sixth and final NBA championship in June 1998. He was only four years old when MJ played his last game in Philadelphia, of all places.
"I wasn't around when he was doing everything," Hurts said. "I wasn't even a thought yet, probably. But from what I know, and what I've been able to see in my time, he's my favorite ever to do it. He's my favorite athlete ever to do it. And I love the way he went about his business on the court."
Job's not finished
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Eagles head coach compares Jalen Hurts to Michael Jordan
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni compared Jalen Hurts to Michael Jordan after their 38-7 win over rivals the New York Giants in the NFC divisional round. Sirianni likened Hurts' competitive spirit and calmness in the situation to MJ's.
"I know this is high praise, but to have him out there is like having, I shouldn't even go there, it's like having Michael Jordan out there," Sirianni said. "He's your leader. He's your guy. ... He brings this calmness to the entire team. He plays great football. He's as tough as they come."
Hurts is looking to lead the Eagles to their second Super Bowl championship. They will face Patrick Maholmes and the Kansas City Chiefs on Feb. 12 at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix, Arizona.
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