Hall of Famer and Utah Jazz legend John Stockton talks with Dan Patrick about his career, his former team and the rookie sensation that is Donovan Mitchell.
As Utah Jazz fans, we’ve probably seen more of John Stockton this season than we have in a long time. Thanks, in no small part, to his son David Stockton making the Jazz roster earlier this year.
Now the Hall of Famer is dishing on all things Jazz, including his opinion of star rookie Donovan Mitchell. Stockton called into The Dan Patrick Show this week, something that’s maybe a yearly occurrence. And this year, there’s a lot more to say about the Jazz.
Perhaps the biggest question Mr. Patrick asked him: “When did you realize Donovan Mitchell was the real deal?”
Stockton replied, “You always doubt when people tell you a rookie is going to be really good, but Mitchell is really special and truly is the real deal.”
Stockton also told an attentive audience some of his favorite stories from his playing days.
According to John, Larry Drew stole the ball from him, or picked his pocket as it were, in his his very first game. Talk about a welcome to the NBA! As most Jazz fans know, John really didn’t talk on the court but there was a brief heated exchange with Michael Jordan over a foul that eventually dissipated. Hearing John recount Larry Bird walking by the bench, commenting, “I feel like 43 tonight,” then scoring exactly 43 points was fascinating.
What year is it again? Feels like we’re back in the 80’s with all these throwback stories we’re getting sent our way!
The video where he recounts some of those events is available below:
This is good stuff. If only we had John recruiting free agents telling all the above the break 3-point shooters in the NBA to sign with the Jazz so that they and the franchise can win a title. That’s the dream.
Next: Utah Jazz: Five intriguing story lines that have emerged from 2018 Playoffs
The Jazz will be back in action on Friday night as they host the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals at 8:30 PM MT.