Toni Kukoc Says Michael Jordan ‘Was Not Very Successful As A General Manager’

Hall of Famer Toni Kukoc told Sport Klub that Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan is the greatest player in NBA history. 

However, Kukoc admitted that Jordan “was not very successful as a general manager” with the Charlotte Hornets. 

“Michael Jordan will always be the greatest for me, but he was not very successful as a general manager,” Kukoc said. “When he and Phil Jackson, who was a phenomenal coach, came into their new roles, they didn’t do very well. That’s the difference.”

Jordan sold his majority stake in the Hornets in August. Charlotte won 41.7 percent of its games under Jordan’s stewardship and made the playoffs just three times, including the season in which Jordan assumed control.

The Hornets underwent a name change — the franchise was still known as the Charlotte Bobcats when Jordan bought them in 2010 — and five coaching changes.

“The opportunity to be the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets in my home state of North Carolina for the last 13 years has been a tremendous honor,” Jordan said in August. “I’m proud of all that the organization accomplished: the exciting on-court moments, the return of the Hornets name, Charlotte hosting the 2019 NBA All-Star Game and HSE becoming a true pillar of this community. Through the years, the unwavering commitment, passion and loyalty of our Hornets fans has been incredible. As I transition into a minority ownership role, I’m thrilled to be able to pass the reins to two successful, innovative and strategic leaders in Gabe and Rick.

“I know the Hornets organization is in great hands moving forward. I’m excited about the future of the team and will continue to support the organization and the community in my new role in the years ahead.” 

Jordan is arguably the best player in NBA history. He won six championships, six Finals MVPs, five regular-season MVPs and 10 scoring titles with the Bulls in the ’90s. The Bulls three-peated twice and went 6-0 in the Finals during the Jordan era.

Jordan finished his NBA career with the Washington Wizards. The sports icon averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists with the Bulls and Wizards. He’s first in NBA history in points per game and player efficiency rating.