Michael Jordan paid tribute to Jerry West, a basketball legend, on First Take. It was announced earlier today that the man on the NBA logo died at the age of 86, with his wife around him. Numerous tributes have been sent to West, who was a champion both on and off the court. Additionally, First Take reported on X that Jordan, 61, texted Stephen A. Smith while he was live to share his own words.

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As MJ’s representative, Smith read, “I am so deeply saddened by the news of Jerry’s death.

“His basketball knowledge impressed me, and the way he and I played the game was a lot alike.”

Additionally, Smith, who is 56 years old, remembered a story from a time when he met West.

Although West was watching the analyst’s show, he heard Smith say that Jordan should take his place as the NBA’s logo.

Calling the ESPN star, West shockingly told him that he agreed.

Smith explained, “He called because he thought I sounded like I would argue against it.”

He was saying, “Absolutely not.” Jackson is my favorite athlete. I believe he deserves it.

One of the best players in NBA history, West also helped build the Los Angeles Lakers’ dynasty in the 1980s.

When he died, he was working as a consultant for the Los Angeles Clippers.