Jordan Doubles His Fun

Michael Jordan practiced twice Tuesday behind closed doors. The only witnesses were his teammates, his coaching staff, some state troopers and a few college students in Wilmington, N.C.

“He was awesome,” one young woman said as she emerged from the gymnasium.

“He’s buff,” said another.

A pack of reporters and cameramen didn’t get to see Jordan do anything more than cheer from the bench. The Washington Wizards let the media watch the final 15 minutes of practice, by which time Jordan had already finished playing in two scrimmages.

Jordan spoke with the media for a few minutes, standing behind a protective barrier of folding chairs arrayed in a semicircle.

“I had a good time today. I’m pretty sure I’ll be sore, but it was fun to be out there and be a part of the drills. It’s a quick way to get back into shape,” Jordan said.

At 38, Jordan is at least four years older than every other player on the team. The Wizards have six rookies and two one-year veterans on their camp roster. One player, Kwame Brown, was 2 when Jordan was a rookie in 1984.

“It’s hard to compare to the Chicago Bulls,” Jordan said. “It’s different because you have a lot of young players.”

Jordan had said he would probably not take part in both practices as the Wizards hold two-a-days during training camp, but he played in both Tuesday.

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Guard Isaiah Rider was a no-show at media day and the first of two practices for the Denver Nuggets. “No, it’s not OK,” Coach Dan Issel said of the former Laker. “It is a missed practiced as far as I am concerned.”

Seattle re-signed free-agent guard Shammond Williams, a day after it signed second-round draft pick Earl Watson.... Cleveland extended the contract of point guard and leading scorer Andre Miller for a fourth year.... Minnesota signed free-agent forward Gary Trent.... Miami signed center Vladimir Stepania.... Dallas guard Darrick Martin broke his right hand and is expected to be sidelined for at least three weeks.