J.R. Reid’s NBA journey spanned over a decade, with stops on some of the league’s most memorable teams. As a versatile forward, he experienced firsthand the highs and lows, the legends, and the locker room stories that define professional basketball. Over the years, Reid carved out a respected career marked by hard work, adaptability, and a genuine love for the game.
Among the teams Reid played for, a few stand out not just for their wins and losses but for the unique culture and camaraderie he found within. He shares insights on what made those teams special, offering a glimpse into what it was like to be part of franchises that left lasting impressions on the NBA landscape.
His early years with Coach Gregg Popovich in San Antonio remain a pivotal part of his story. Reid recalls the coach’s demanding yet insightful style that would eventually lead to a dynasty, giving a fresh perspective on the beginnings of one of the game’s greatest coaching careers.
Reid’s time with the Charlotte Hornets also holds a special place in his memories. He opens up about the atmosphere on and off the court, including some lighter moments involving a young Steph Curry and the team dynamics that made that era memorable.
And finally, Reid takes us back to his college days at North Carolina, reflecting on the profound presence Michael Jordan had even during off-seasons.
From stories of MJ’s visits to Chapel Hill to the impact he left on the campus and young players, while appearing on episode # 6 of Scoop B Selects, JR Reid offers a unique, personal window into the legend’s early influence.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Which teams were your favorites during your NBA career and what do you remember about the 1994-95 Spurs and playing against Hakeem Olajuwon’s Rockets?
J.R. Reid: Man! I played with so many good teammates and really good teams, but I think with that [1994-95 Spurs] team with David Robinson when he got MVP. We won 62 games. We had a great core, guys got along well and we were focused but we ran into that Dream Hakeem Olajuwon and he had something for us that year! [laughs] That was a tough one.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: What was Coach Popovich like when you first played for him in San Antonio?
J.R. Reid: Well you know I wasn’t there very long with Coach Pop but Pop has always been Pop, you know? His personality, he’s very outgoing, a player’s guy, a coach, he knows basketball in and out… and the when the Spurs hired him they knew what they were getting and he brought a lot of championships to San Antonio.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: What was your experience like playing for the Charlotte Hornets, especially with the passionate fanbase and the team’s growth during your time there?
J.R. Reid: We were very special because of basketball and the newness of it all; being in Charlotte which is just a great fanbase and loves basketball so much. We weren’t very good early but we led the league in attendance every year., you know? They were out every night supporting us and we gave great effort and then we got better. That’s why I’m so happy that they were to get back [to Charlotte] that second time when we had good teams and much better production from the fans.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: What was it like having a young Steph Curry around his dad, Dell Curry and the team? What would he do on the team plane to keep things lively?
J.R. Reid: He used to do all the movies for us! He used to Sexual Chocolate from Coming to America. Dell used to go get him to make him act out all our favorite movies. Back then on the planes, we had the VHS’s, right? So, we only had about 6 good movies. So for an 82-game season, it was a long flight; we knew all the movies so we would just quote the movies over and over. And Steph was around us so much that he became one of the guys and that’s what he used to do, quote a whole movie for us. anything . He was right there with it!
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: What was it like when Michael Jordan came back to Chapel Hill in the summers, and how did his presence impact you guys?
J.R. Reid: [smiles] Oh Absolutely! Mike would come back every summer talkin’ mad shit to us all summer long, you know? That’s how he was. [laughs]
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Do you have any memorable stories of Michael Jordan when he came back to Chapel Hill during the summers?
J.R. Reid: [laughing] Oh no no! Mike was just Mike! Very ultra-competitive. After playing 18 or 36 holes maybe, he’ll come out there and play pickup and you know why he was MICHAEL JORDAN! [smiles]
JR Reid’s reflections offer a rare, behind-the-scenes look at an NBA career that intersected with some of basketball’s most iconic figures and moments. From experiencing Coach Popovich’s early leadership to witnessing Michael Jordan’s off-season presence in Chapel Hill, Reid’s stories enrich the lore surrounding these legends.
His anecdotes about team life, especially with the Charlotte Hornets and the youthful energy of Steph Curry, highlight the blend of intensity and camaraderie that define professional basketball. These moments remind us that beyond the highlights and headlines, basketball is deeply human — full of relationships, challenges, and growth.
Reid’s journey also underscores the importance of embracing every chapter, whether it’s a tough season, a transformative coach, or an inspirational teammate. His perspective invites us to appreciate the unseen layers of the game that shape players both on and off the court.
As he shares these memories, Reid illustrates how basketball is more than just a sport — it’s a community built on respect, perseverance, and passion. His experiences continue to resonate with fans and players alike, bridging generations through the timeless love of the game.
Looking ahead, J.R. Reid’s story is a testament to the lasting impact of dedication and the invaluable lessons learned through basketball’s evolving landscape. His insights serve as a powerful reminder that every player’s journey adds to the rich tapestry of NBA history.
