Every now and then, an NBA quote drops that makes you blink twice. This is one of those moments. Chet Holmgren looked at Rui Hachimura and decided, “You know what? That’s basically Michael Jordan but make it Japanese.”
Yes, he really went there.
Holmgren was handing out compliments like free samples at a grocery store. But instead of a simple “he’s nice,” he went full anime crossover episode. “Japanese Jordan.” That’s a nickname with expectations, that’s a nickname that comes with invisible theme music.
Now, to be fair, Rui isn’t some random player. The Los Angeles Lakers forward can hoop, he’s smooth, confident and can score when it matters. But comparing anyone to Michael Jordan is like comparing your neighborhood chef to a Michelin star restaurant. Relax, Chet.
Chet Holmgren called Rui Hachimura the ‘Japanese Michael Jordan’ while describing his game:
“Something about those Gonzaga guys. He’s a talented guy. He plays a little bit like Japanese Jordan sometimes when you see the turnaround and stuff.”
Hachimura shot the mid-range jumper… pic.twitter.com/rIIbDC2ERK
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) May 5, 2026
“Something about those Gonzaga guys. He’s a talented guy. He plays a little bit like Japanese Jordan sometimes when you see the turnaround and stuff.
… He can really make shots and make shots in bunches if you let him, so you can let him get any easy ones.”
Holmgren, like Hachimura, played his college ball at Gonzaga University, so perhaps he’s a bit biased. But Hachimura’s ability to not only be a laser from beyond the arc but also score one-on-one, especially from the mid-range area, will be a sizable key for Los Angeles in this upcoming series.
When the team’s offense is stalling or breaking down, especially while LeBron James is resting, Hachimura allows it to continue to produce enough points to be competitive.
In the end, this was just one player showing love to another. Was it a bit extra? Absolutely. Did it get people talking? Mission accomplished.
So is Rui Hachimura the “Japanese Jordan”? Let’s not get carried away. But hey, if he starts hitting fadeaways with dramatic music playing in the background, we might need to revisit this conversation.
Until then, Chet might want to keep the nicknames slightly less legendary.
