Former NBA star Joe Johnson does not consider Michael Beasley to be on his level in terms of greatness and accomplishments. Although both Johnson and Beasley are no longer in the league, they are still remembered and respected by well-informed members of the basketball community.
Johnson appeared as a guest on a recent episode of Shannon Sharpe’s podcast called Nightcap. Sharpe played a clip of Beasley indirectly challenging Johnson to a one-on-one matchup, and Johnson could not help but point out that the two of them were not on the same tier.
Joe Johnson Felt Disrespected By Michael Beasley’s Offer, Challenge
When former NBA stars continue to play after retirement, it is usually for money or fame. However, “Iso Joe” felt no real reason to take up Beasley’s challenge. During another podcast called The Next Chapter, Beasley called a potential matchup with Johnson exiting and said it would be a good battle.
Upon hearing Beasley’s words, Johnson decided to share his thoughts.
Joe Johnson said he ain’t the one to play with 😤🔥💯@ShannonSharpe @ochocinco @TheJoeJohnson7 pic.twitter.com/Gjm3Zp5IdR
Nightcap (@NightcapShow_) June 12, 2025
“Don’t diminish my career, bro, and what I’ve done,” Johnson said. “Like we sat down and you were talking about how ‘Ah man, you and Beasley had great NBA careers’. Man I got 20,000 points. Only 52 guys in the world with 20,000 points. Seven-time NBA All-Star. I wasn’t no one-hit wonder, two-hit wonder…Like I did my thing, man. Don’t diminish what I’ve done. I ain’t saying what Beasley done. I’m just saying don’t come to me with this piss poor a** offer and think I’m just going to jump on…”
It is unclear exactly what deal was offered to Johnson. Nonetheless, he was offended by it and made it clear that he had no incentive to negotiate or even make a counteroffer.
To put things into perspective, Johnson finished his career with 20,407 points. On the other hand, Beasley had just 7,568 points. The numbers say it all and speak to the gap between the two players.
Johnson tried his best to avoid taking a direct shot at Beasley. However, he was unable to hide his feelings over being lowballed and not being given the value and respect that he has undoubtedly earned throughout his career.
While fans might have enjoyed seeing a one-on-one matchup between Beasley and Johnson, an explanation as to why that matchup never took place has finally been provided. Whether Beasley could have given Johnson a tough matchup or not, the handling and negotiations certainly played a huge role in stopping this game between the former stars.
