VIDEO: Rockets' Ariza believes he can beat Michael Jordan in game of 1-on-1
Nothing scares Houston Rockets' forward Trevor Ariza, not even a theoretical 1-on-1 matchup against the greatest NBA player to ever grace the hardwood.
When asked by TMZ whether he could defeat Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan mano a mano, the 29-year-old didn't shy away from the challenge.
"I better be able to beat him 1-on-1 right now," Ariza said. "If I can't do that, then I need to rethink what I'm doing."
Jordan, even at the ripe age of 52, would surely be more than willing to take on a young gun like Ariza in some playground action if the opportunity arose.
The Charlotte Hornets part owner and president of basketball operations recently said he could triumph over anyone on his roster, although he tries to steer away from such games as he doesn't want to "demolish their confidence."
What a gentlemanly thing to do.
Ariza doesn't have the luxury of playing under Jordan, though, so all bets are off.