The Chicago Bears had to navigate a tough offseason this year. With so little sports because of COVID-19, players and coaches had to look for unlikely sources of motivation. One that seemed to stick with them was the critically-lauded 10-part ESPN documentary “The Last Dance.” A series that covered the rise and rule of the legendary Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s led by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

The lessons they learned on what it takes to not only be winners but be champions were invaluable. Akiem Hicks and others mentioned as much. Eventually, they had to move forward with training camp and prepare for the regular season. Finally, after months of waiting the time has arrived. Yet it seems the team brass didn’t want the guys to forget the original message.

So a little gift was provided to everybody before leaving for Detroit according to the team website.

“Throughout the offseason, Bears coaches used quotes and imagery from the Chicago Bulls documentary “The Last Dance” as motivation in team meetings. To kick off the first road trip of the season in style, head coach Matt Nagy and GM Ryan Pace surprised players, coaches and traveling staff with brand new pairs of Jordan shoes in team colors. See everyone rocking their fresh kicks as they depart to take on the Detroit Lions.”

https://twitter.com/ChicagoBears/status/1304963008070742016

Chicago Bears never lack creative ideas for motivation

One thing people can never say about Matt Nagy is he lacks the ability to motivate his players. That is probably his greatest strength. There is no shortage of creativity in how he’s able to deliver messages that resonate. This is why nobody questions his leadership. His players always play hard for him. It remains to be seen if they’ll play well.

Channeling the spirit of Jordan is never a bad idea. Particularly when it involves Detroit. A city he hated his entire NBA career. Going into that town and getting a win would do him proud. Not to mention getting this season off on the right foot for once.