Famous uncle doesn’t change Jordan’s game

Justin Jordan has high expectations surrounding him each time he steps foot on a basketball court.

Being the nephew of former NBA star Michael Jordan, now the Charlotte Bobcats’ owner, has put a spotlight on the Davidson Day senior’s every move.

But the 18-year-old said that he’s used to it. Even with his uncle watching in the stands, he’s learned not to stress out about the added pressure.

“At the end of the day, I can only be the best player I can be,” Jordan said. “I’m not trying to be Michael Jordan. I’m trying to be Justin Jordan.”

First-year Davidson Day basketball coach Joel Justus has noticed that mentality.

“His focus is on himself and on the team,” he said, “much more than trying to prove anybody wrong or live up to anyone else.”

Jordan has been around basketball as long as he can remember. His oldest memories on the court are tagging along with his dad, Larry, to watch him play pick-up games with his friends.

“I just love the game,” the younger Jordan said. “Being around my dad and uncle, who also love the game, inspired me to get better and be the best I can be.”

Jordan has been an under-the-radar player most of his high school career.

He arrived at Davidson Day his sophomore season, when he played on the junior varsity team. He moved up to varsity last year, becoming the Patriots’ sixth man as they went 31-4 and finished the year as NCISAA 2A state runners-up.

Jordan focused on getting better in the offseason, working out several times a week with trainers, including former NBA player Muggsy Bogues, and lifting weights to get in better shape. Jordan also watched film to pinpoint what areas of his game needed to improve.

“I tried to work on my whole game – from ball-handling to defense to shooting,” Jordan said.

He even watched some old tapes from his uncle’s playing days.

“He’s the perfect guy to learn from,” Jordan said.

That dedication allowed the 6-foot-3 combo guard to earn a starting spot for Davidson Day. Jordan has led the Patriots with a career-best 17 points and five rebounds per game.

Jordan has a slasher’s mentality, constantly looking to drive to the basket, but he’s also able to hit mid- and long-range jump shots. He can also find his open teammates and leads the team in assists.

“The constant amount of pressure he puts on defenses really is the biggest threat that he gives us,” said Justus. “But he’s an undervalued defender. He’s very good on the ball. He knows how to use his length and is able to guard smaller guards using his athleticism.”

Despite Jordan’s improved play, Davidson Day has struggled this season.

The young Patriots, who returned only three players from last year’s varsity team, have been slow to come together while getting on the same page with their new coach. They started the season 8-12.

Davidson Day had also lost four of its first five Southern Piedmont Athletic Association games heading into Jan. 23’s game against Gaston Day.

“Anytime there’s transition, change, it’s uncomfortable for everybody,” Justus said. “And that’s what we’ve gone through this year. There’s been a lot of change – turnover in terms of player personnel, a new head coach. I think it’s a process of learning and teaching, and I think our guys have been very receptive of that.”

Jordan agreed.

“We’ve been off to a slow start,” said Jordan. “But I feel like we’re starting to pick things up. I can see guys improving, playing harder. We’re just starting to play better as a team.”

Justus said that Jordan has been a good leader for Davidson Day.

“Anytime we do anything, Justin’s probably the hardest-working kid there,” said Justus. “That serves as a good example for our young team.”

Jordan hopes to keep getting stronger and to improve his shooting touch to reach his goal of playing in college.

The Davidson resident said that he’s had interest from Brown, N.J. Institute of Technology, New Hampshire and a couple of smaller schools.

But Jordan’s still focused on getting Davidson Day – with the help of sophomores Kenny Hairston (14 points per game) and Jermaine Blackmon (6 points per game) – to close out the season on a good note.

Much like M.J., Jordan’s competitiveness takes over.

“I want to win,” said Jordan. “That’s the main goal.”