In the world of music, Prince stands out not only for his extraordinary talent but also for his surprising skills on the basketball court. Micki Free, guitarist with the band Shalamar and a close friend of Prince, recalls how the legendary musician showcased his athletic prowess. Free claims Prince’s basketball abilities reminded him of Michael Jordan’s performance.
Prince’s Basketball Skills
According to Free, Prince was a remarkable basketball player, astonishing everyone who witnessed him play. He described Prince’s skill level as “freaking amazing,” a perspective shared by those who spent time with him on the court.
The Legendary Game with the Murphy Brothers
Prince’s basketball talents became legendary through a story told by Charlie Murphy on Chappelle’s Show in 2004. In 1984, amid the height of their musical careers, Charlie and Eddie Murphy faced off against Prince and Free in a two-on-two basketball game.
- Date: 1984
- Location: Prince’s house in Beverly Hills
- Teams: Shirts versus Blouses (Prince and Free vs. the Murphy brothers)
The initial reaction to play basketball was one of disbelief. Prince, standing at five-foot-three, was thought to be an unlikely opponent. The Murphy brothers believed they had an easy victory ahead of them, especially given the flamboyant attire worn by Prince and Free. However, the reality turned out to be quite different.
The Game
Once the game began, the Murphy brothers were caught off guard. Free recalls that Prince started impressively, making shot after shot. “It was that serious,” Free noted, explaining how he hardly shot at all during the game. Instead, the small yet agile Prince dominated the court, showcasing not just skill but an undeniable competitive spirit.
- Outcome: Prince and Free emerged victorious, defeating Eddie and Charlie.
- Post-game treat: Prince’s cook prepared blueberry pancakes for everyone after the match.
Reflecting on Prince’s Uniqueness
For Micki Free, this basketball encounter exemplified Prince’s extraordinary versatility. He emphasized that few musicians could match Prince’s immense talent across various skills—be it playing an instrument or excelling in sports. “He played everything, man — and he was good on everything he played,” Free stated, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Prince’s artistry.
Whether through music or basketball, Prince’s unique talents continue to resonate, leaving a lasting legacy that spans beyond genres and expectations.
