February 25th, 2004
It was the All-Star Weekend night. The dunk contest, 3 point shootout, all the glamor. I was watching it, in the middle of the night, from my house in Italy. I led my team to Euroleague championship last season, but I missed home. I missed NBA.
I was tired, just about going to bed. But then my phone ringed. It was weird, caller was from the States. Maybe some college looking for a coach.
-Clint Hintz, I said to the caller.
-Hi Clint, it's Michael Jordan calling you.
-MJ, my man, how are ya?
I played with Michael in North Carolina. Our team was amazing. We had the GOAT, James Worthy, Sam Perkins, Kenny Smith, Brad Daughtery, and even some European kid called Timo. He didn't have what it takes, but he was a cool kid. Nowadays he works with Michael's restaurants.
-You are a coach, right? Michael asked from me.
-Yeah, so?
-Next season the NBA expands, Michael explained. - Our North Carolina gets a team, the Bobcats.
-You serious? After the Hornets moved, we get another team? I was amazed by David Stern.
-I want YOU to be our head coach, MJ told me.
-When do you want me to be in NC? I asked.
My contract ran out here in Italy, so it was a no brainer. My kids didn't really like Italy, as much as they loved USA, so they wanted to go as soon as possible. I was ready for the challenge.