Long before Michael Jordan became a basketball icon in the NBA, achieving every accolade a player dreams of, there was an incident during his time at the University of North Carolina that could have drastically altered his career. All it took was a combination of watermelon, a samurai sword, and a blindfolded martial artist for the future five-time MVP to require three stitches to close his wound. However, fortunately for the millions of basketball fans, he survived an incident that could've gone drastically worse.
Jordan's epic story
In the spring of 1982, Dallas evangelist Bill Glass was preparing for a stop in North Carolina as part of his prison ministry tour. To draw more attention to his event, Glass contacted coach Dean Smith in hopes of recruiting a young athlete, such as Sam Perkins or Jimmy Black, who could help him attain more attention to his event. However, Smith informed him that no other star was available; Jordan was the best option he could provide.
Fortunately for Mike, he soon became nationally recognized following his NCAA championship-winning shot. Although he wasn't the most well-known athlete at the time, Glass was satisfied to have MJ for the event, feeling that something was better than nothing. Ultimately, when the 6'6" shooting guard arrived at the scene, he was warmly welcomed by the inmates.
Interestingly, the event wasn't just about behind-the-bars basketball. Glass had even arranged for some exhibition shows, one of which featured Tennessee-based martial artist Mike Crain. Acknowledging the excitement, Mike decided to stay longer to witness the act. Furthermore, when Crain required a volunteer for his classic watermelon and sword people-pleasing act, MJ was quick to climb up the stage.
During the performance, Jordan lay on a weight bench with a watermelon on his belly, while Crain, being blindfolded, had to cut the fruit into two pieces without harming the volunteer. When the target exploded into small pieces, the crowd was captivated, but the martial artist had underestimated how much he applied on Michael's midsection and had misjudged his swing. When he took off the blindfold, he was yelled at by a frustrated player, who could see his jersey getting torn and blood coming out.
"Look whatcha did," MJ screamed at Crain.
Mike required three stitches
Although the injury was not as severe as it initially appeared, Jordan still required three stitches to close the wound.
At that moment, Mike likely realized the gravity of the situation, understanding that placing his life in someone else's hands could have had far worse consequences. Needless to say, he probably never volunteered for such a performance again.
Related: "I'm trying to knock the hell out of Rodman" - Michael Jordan on how he beat Dennis Rodman in his own game during the 1991 Eastern Conference Finals
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