michael jordan short biography

August 18, 2024

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Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan is an retired American basketball player. He is regarded by many as the greatest basketball player in history. He nicknamed Air Jordan and His Airness because of his playing style. He played 15 season in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards. He has won five Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards. He was a member of the USA Dream Team in 1992 Olympics.

Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963 in Brooklyn, New York. His family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina when he was a baby. Jordan is the fourth of five children. He has two older brothers, Larry Jordan and James R. Jordan, Jr. , one older sister, Deloris , and a younger sister, Roslyn . Jordan attended Emsley A. Laney High School in Wilmington, where he anchored his athletic career by playing baseball, football, and basketball. In 1981, Jordan accepted a basketball scholarship to North Carolina.

In 1984 NBA draft. The Chicago Bulls selected Jordan with the third overall pick, after Hakeem Olajuwon (Houston Rockets) and Sam Bowie (Portland Trail Blazers). In 1993 he retired from basketball and pursued a baseball career. He returned in 1995 to Basketball. He won the NBA Championship 6 times with Chicago Bull which include 2 Three-Peats. He again retired in 1999 but later came back again in 2001 with Washington Wizards. He permanently retired in 2003. He retired as one of the greates in NBA History. He is 4th highest scorer in NBA History behin only Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Karl Malone and Kobe Bryant. He has the highest career scoring average.

Michael Jordan  married Juanita Vanoy in September 1989. They have two sons, Jeffrey Michael and Marcus James , and a daughter, Jasmine . They dicvorced in 2006. He is currently married to Cuban-American model Yvette Prieto. The couple have identical twins born to them.

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What was Michael Jordan famous for?

American basketball player Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six National Basketball Association (NBA) championships (1991–93, 1996–98). He was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) five times (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998) and was also named Defensive Player of the Year in 1988.

How many times was Michael Jordan in the Olympics?

Michael Jordan led the U.S. basketball team to Olympic gold medals in 1984 in Los Angeles and in 1992 in Barcelona, Spain.

How tall is Michael Jordan?

During his playing career, Michael Jordan stood at 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters) tall.

Does Michael Jordan own a basketball team?

In 2006, Michael Jordan became minority owner and general manager of the American basketball team the Charlotte Bobcats (now known as the Charlotte Hornets).

What was Michael Jordan's nickname?

During his playing career, Michael Jordan, a guard, was an exceptionally talented shooter and passer and a tenacious defender. He earned the nickname “Air Jordan” because of his extraordinary leaping ability and acrobatic maneuvers, and his popularity reached heights few athletes have known.

Recent News

Michael Jordan (born February 17, 1963, Brooklyn , New York , U.S.) is a former collegiate and professional basketball player widely considered to be one of the greatest all-around players in the history of the game. Jordan’s unmatched athleticism and competitive drive revolutionized the sport while winning six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls (1991–93, 1996–98).

(Read James Naismith’s 1929 Britannica essay on his invention of basketball.)

Jordan grew up in Wilmington , North Carolina , and entered the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1981. As a freshman, he made the winning basket against Georgetown in the 1982 national championship game. Jordan was named College Player of the Year in both his sophomore and junior years, leaving North Carolina after his junior year. He led the U.S. basketball team to Olympic gold medals in 1984 in Los Angeles and in 1992 in Barcelona, Spain . The players who competed in the latter Games became known as the Dream Team .

In 1984 Jordan, a guard standing 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters), was drafted by the Chicago Bulls. He quickly became known as an exceptionally talented shooter and passer and a tenacious defender. In his first season (1984–85), he led the league in scoring and was named Rookie of the Year; after missing most of the following season with a broken foot, he returned to lead the NBA in scoring for seven consecutive seasons, averaging about 33 points per game. He was only the second player (after Wilt Chamberlain ) to score 3,000 points in a single season (1986–87). Jordan was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) five times (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998) and was also named Defensive Player of the Year in 1988.

In October 1993, after leading the Bulls to their third consecutive championship, Jordan retired briefly and pursued a career in professional baseball . He returned to basketball in March 1995. In the 1995–96 season Jordan led the Bulls to a 72–10 regular season record, the best in the history of the NBA (broken in 2015–16 by the Golden State Warriors ). From 1996 to 1998 the Jordan-led Bulls again won three championships in a row, and each time Jordan was named MVP of the NBA finals. After the 1997–98 season Jordan retired again.

• Points per game : 30.1
• Total points : 32,292
• Steals per game : 2.3
• Total steals : 2,514
• Total games : 1,072

During this time Jordan earned the nickname “Air Jordan” because of his extraordinary leaping ability and acrobatic maneuvers, and his popularity reached heights few athletes (or celebrities of any sort) have known. He accumulated millions of dollars from endorsements, most notably for his Nike Air Jordan basketball shoes.

(Read about Jordan’s role in the rise of sneaker culture.)

Jordan remained close to the sport, buying a share of the Washington Wizards in January 2000. He was also appointed president of basketball operations for the club. However, managing rosters and salary caps was not enough for Jordan, and in September 2001 he renounced his ownership and management positions with the Wizards in order to be a player on the team. His second return to the NBA was greeted with enthusiasm by the league, which had suffered declining attendance and television ratings since his 1998 retirement. After the 2002–03 season, Jordan announced his final retirement. He ended his career with 32,292 total points and a 30.1-points-per-game average, which was the best in league history at that time, as well as 2,514 steals, then the second most ever.

In 2006 Jordan became minority owner and general manager of the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats (now known as the Charlotte Hornets). He bought a controlling interest in the team in 2010 and became the first former NBA player to become a majority owner of one of the league’s franchises. Jordan sold his share in 2023.

Jordan made a successful film, Space Jam (1996), in which he starred with animated characters Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck . In 1996 the NBA named him one of the 50 greatest players of all time, and in 2009 he was elected to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

• World Biography

Michael Jordan Biography

Born: February 17, 1963 Brooklyn, New York African American basketball player

Basketball superstar Michael Jordan is one of the most successful, popular, and wealthy athletes in college, Olympic, and professional sports history.

Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, one of James and Deloris Jordan's five children. The family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, when Michael was very young. His father worked as a General Electric plant supervisor, and his mother worked at a bank. His father taught him to work hard and not to be tempted by street life. His mother taught him to sew, clean, and do laundry. Jordan loved sports but failed to make his high school basketball team as a sophomore. He continued to practice and made the team the next year. After high school he accepted a basketball scholarship to the University of North Carolina, where he played under head coach Dean Smith.

In Jordan's first season at North Carolina he was named Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Rookie of the Year for 1982. The team won the ACC championship, and Jordan made the clutch jump shot that beat Georgetown University for the championship of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Jordan led the ACC in scoring as a sophomore and as a junior. The Sporting News named him college player of the year for both years. He left North Carolina after his junior year and was selected by the Chicago Bulls of the National Basketball Association (NBA) as the third pick of the 1984 draft. Before joining the Bulls, Jordan was a member of the Summer 1984 United States Olympic basketball team that won the gold medal in Los Angeles, California.

Early pro years

When Jordan was drafted by the Chicago Bulls they were a losing team, drawing only around six thousand fans to home games. Jordan quickly turned that around. His style of play and fierce spirit of competition reminded sportswriters and fans of Julius Erving (1950–), who had been a superstar player during the 1970s. Jordan's incredible leaping ability and hang time thrilled fans in arenas around the league. In his first season he was named to the All-Star team and was later honored as the league's Rookie of the Year.

By adding such players as Scottie Pippen, Bill Cartwright, Horace Grant, and John Paxson around Jordan, the Bulls' management created a strong team that won the 1991 NBA title by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers. The next year, the Bulls repeated as NBA champions by beating the Portland Trail Blazers. In 1992 Jordan also played on the "Dream Team," which participated in the Summer Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain. The Olympic Committee had voted to lift the ban on professional athletes participating in the games. The team easily won the gold medal, winning their eight games by an average margin of 43.7 points.

Unexpected retirement

In 1993, after a tough playoff series with the New York Knicks, the Bulls met the Phoenix Suns for the NBA championship. When it was over, Jordan was again playoff MVP, and Chicago had won a third straight title. That summer Jordan's father, James, was murdered by two men during a robbery attempt. Jordan was grief stricken, and his father's death, combined with media reports about his gambling, led him to announce his retirement from professional basketball in October. Jordan had won three straight NBA titles, three regular season MVP awards, three playoff MVP titles, seven consecutive scoring titles, and he was a member of the All-Star team every year that he was in the league. In just nine seasons he had become the Bulls all-time leading scorer.

In 1994–95 Jordan played for the Birmingham Barons, a minor league baseball team in the Chicago White Sox system. Although the seventeen-month experiment showed that he was not a major league baseball player, the experience and time away from basketball provided a much-needed rest and opportunity to regain his love of basketball.

Return to glory

When Jordan returned to the Chicago Bulls during the 1994–95 regular season, people wondered, "Could he do it again?" He played well, but he was obviously rusty. The Bulls were defeated in the playoffs by the Orlando Magic. After a summer of playing basketball during breaks from filming the live-action cartoon movie Space Jam, Jordan returned with a fierce determination to prove that he had the ability to get back on top. The 1995–96 Bulls finished the regular season 72–10, an NBA record for most wins in a season, and Jordan, with his shooting rhythm back, earned his eighth scoring title. He also became the tenth NBA player to score 25,000 career points and second fastest after Chamberlain to reach that mark. The Bulls went on to win their fourth NBA championship, overpowering the Seattle Supersonics in six games. Few who watched will ever forget how Jordan sank to his knees, head bent over the winning ball, in a moment of bittersweet victory and deep sadness. The game had been played on Father's Day, three years after his father's murder.

The defending champions had a tougher time during the 1996–97 season but entered the playoffs as expected. Sheer determination took the Bulls to their fifth NBA championship. Illness, injury, and at times a lack of concentration hurt the team. In the fifth game of the finals Jordan carried the team to victory despite suffering from a stomach virus. In the 1997–98 season the Bulls were again in the playoffs, and again they faced tough competition. As before, they were able to clinch the NBA championship, and Jordan claimed his sixth NBA finals MVP award.

Jordan's other professional life as a businessman was never off track. Profitable endorsements (ads in which he voiced his support for certain products) for companies such as Nike and Wheaties, as well as his own golf company and products such as Michael Jordan cologne (which reportedly sold 1.5 million bottles in its first two months), made Jordan a multimillionaire. In 1997 he was ranked the world's highest paid athlete, with a $30 million contract—the largest one-year salary in sports history—and approximately $40 million a year in endorsement fees.

Retired again

Jordan retired for a second time in 1999, ending his career on a high note just after the official end of a labor dispute between NBA players and team owners. Many people saw him as the greatest basketball player ever, and his retirement was called the end of an era. In 2000 Jordan became part-owner and president of basketball operations of the Washington Wizards. This made him only the third African American owner in the NBA. He also gained an ownership stake in the Washington Capitals hockey team. Also in 2000, Jordan celebrated the first year of his $1 million grant program to help teachers make a difference in their schools.

In September 2001, after months of rumors, Jordan announced that he was ending his three-year retirement to play for the Wizards at age thirty-eight. At a news conference to discuss his comeback, he said, "Physically, I know I'm not twenty-five years old, but I feel I can play the game of basketball on the highest level." The Wizards, who had won only nineteen games the season before, improved with the addition of Jordan. After being voted to play in his thirteenth All-Star game (during which he missed a slam dunk), Jordan had the Wizards in the race for the playoffs until suffering a knee injury and missing the last part of the season. He was also distracted in January 2002 when his wife Juanita, whom he married in 1989, filed for divorce. (They have three children.) The next month the divorce was called off. Jordan said he planned to play one more season for the Wizards.

For More Information

Greene, Bob. Hang Time. New York: Doubleday, 1992.

Gutman, Bill. Michael Jordan: A Biography. New York: Pocket Books, 1991.

Halberstam, David. Playing for Keeps: Michael Jordan and the World He Made. New York: Random House, 1999.

Jordan, Michael. For the Love of the Game: My Story. New York: Crown Publishers, 1998.

Naughton, Jim. Taking to the Air: The Rise of Michael Jordan. New York: Warner Books, 1992.

Smith, Sam. The Jordan Rules. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1992.

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Michael Jordan Biography, Childhood, Career, Personal Life

Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963) is a retired American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 15 seasons. During those 15 seasons in the NBA,

Michael Jordan, through sheer hard work and an ironclad determination to succeed, captured 6 NBA championships. Aside from the championships, Michael Jordan’s impressive basketball prowess, which earned him the admiration of fans, and established him as one of the most outstanding personalities in the sport, earned him individual awards.

Whenever he won, Michael Jordan does it so brilliantly with such exceptional attitude that it was clear beyond any doubt that he is the best, as evidenced by his NBA Final MVP awards. In the six NBA Finals Michael Jordan won, he stood out and thus was awarded the MVP award.

His excellent disposition, which earned him success on the courts, has been carried into the business world after he retired, and this, in turn, has brought him similar success. In this article, we’ll review Micheal Jordan’s biography facts, childhood/early life, career, and personal life.

RELATED: Michael Jordan’s Net Worth, Career Earnings & Endorsements

Table of Contents

Michael Jordan’s Biography Facts, Age, Quick Info

Here are some quick biography facts that you need to know about the American basketball legend .

• Full Name: Michael Jeffrey Jordan
• Nicknames: His Airness, Black Cat, MJ, Air Jordan, Black Cat
• Born: February 17, 1963
• Age: 61 years old
• Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
• Place of Birth: New York City, New York, USA
• Nationality: American
• Height: 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
• Weight: 98 kg (216 lb)
• High School: Emsley A. Laney High School 
• College: University of North Carolina
• NBA Draft: 1984 (Round 1; Pick 3) by  Chicago Bulls
• Position: Shooting guard
• League: NBA
• Kit Number: #23, #12, #45
• Playing Career: 1984–1993, 1995–1998, 2001–2003
• Father: James R. Jordan, Sr.
• Mother: Deloris Jordan
• Brothers: Larry Jordan, James Jordan Jr.
• Sisters: Roslyn Jordan, Deloris Jordan
• Wife: Yvette Prieto (married 2013), Juanita Vanoy (married 1989–2006)
• Sons: Jeffrey Michael Jordan, Marcus Jordan
• Daughters: Ysabel Jordan, Victoria Jordan, Jasmine M. Jordan

RELATED: Interesting Michael Jordan Facts You Should Know

Michael Jordan’s Early Life & Childhood

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on February 17, 1963, Michael Jeffrey Jordan is one of five children born to his parents — James Jordan and Deloris Jordan. His father, James, worked as a General Electric Supervisor while his mother, Deloris, worked in a bank. As a young boy, his father taught him basic etiquettes such as hard work, while his mother instilled domestic skills such as sewing and laundry.

Jordan, who had an interest in sport from a young age, tried playing basketball at Emsley A. Laney High School in his second year, but Jordan, who stood at the height of 5 feet, 11 inches, was said to be too short and couldn’t play for his high school basketball team.

He, however, went on to play for his school’s junior basketball team, where he recorded several 40 point games. Soon Jordan grew and was given a spot in the maim team where he recorded an average of 25 points in his last two seasons of high school basketball.

In 1981, as a senior in high school, Jordan was invited to the McDonald’s All-American Game, where he performed brilliantly. After completing high school, he received several offers from various universities such as the University of North Carolina, Syracuse University, and the University of Virginia. He, however, chose to play for North Carolina.

Michael Jordan’s College Basketball Career

In his first season of college basketball, Jordan was instrumental in North Carolina’s NCAA Championship win and was awarded the ACC Freshman of the Year award. He continued in a superb form, which saw him earn the NCAA All-American First Team selection in his second and third year in college.

In his junior year, Jordan’s impressive form earned him the Wooden and Naismith College Basketball Player of the Year awards. Following a brilliant junior year, he decided to forgo his final year in college and enlisted in the 1984 NBA Draft, where the Chicago Bulls selected him as the draft’s third overall pick. In 1986, he returned to college, where he bagged his Bachelor of Arts degree in geography.

Michael Jordan’s Professional Basketball Career & Awards

Chicago bulls (1984–1993, 1995–1998).

In his first season in the NBA, Jordan’s performance made him a fan favorite, which led him to feature in the All-star game. The All-Star game in the 1984/85 was controversial, as the established stars were pissed about the attention Jordan was receiving from the fans and thus refused to pass to him. Jordan, who seemed not to mind the buzz around him, continued in great form and won the Rookie of the year award after averaging 28.2 points.

Jordan could not perform well in his second season due to a fractured foot, which led him to miss 64 games. He however, recovered fully and went on a scoring spree in his third season. That season saw him emerge as the second of only two players in the history of the NBA to have recorded 3,000 points in a season. He also recorded 100 blocked shots and 200 steals, which made him the first player to record such numbers.

In his fourth season in the NBA, the 1987/88 season, Jordan topped the scoring charts and also won the Defensive Player of the award. In the 1988/89 and 1989/90 seasons, Jordan led the Bulls to the Eastern Conference finals but was defeated by the Detroit Pistons in both seasons.

The 1990/91 season was the beginning of good times in the NBA for Jordan. His performance during the season earned him a second MVP award after he claimed the first in the 1988 season. He also led the Bulls to defeat LA Lakers, who had the mighty Magic Johnson in the NBA Finals.

For his performance, Jordan was named the Finals MVP. The following season, he and the Bulls maintained their top form and went on to win the NBA Finals while Jordan was named the NBA Finals MVP as well as the season’s MVP award for a second successive time.

In the 1992/93 season, Jordan did not win the NBA MVP, but he did win a third consecutive NBA Championship and set the record of being the first player ever to claim three successive NBA Finals MVP award.

First Retirement

In October 1993, Jordan retired from the NBA. He cited the death of his father as a factor which affected his decision but said his desire to play no more was the primary reason for his retirement. It was, however, rumored that Michael Jordan’s retirement was a punishment for his involvement in gambling.

Return to the NBA

In March 1995, Michael Jordan announced his return to the NBA, saying, ‘I’m back.’ In November 1994, Jordan’s #23 jersey was retired by the Bulls, and though he could use the jersey number, he chose to wear #45. But he later decided to return to his old jersey number, which led to the Bulls being fined due to not reporting the change to NBA officials.

In the 1995/96 season, Jordan was back to his old self. He won the NBA MVP, All-star game MVP, the NBA Championship, and the NBA Finals MVP awards. The championship win that season was emotional for Jordan because it was the first championship he won following his father’s murder and the championship was won on father’s day. Jordan was seen crying after the win.

The following season, Jordan did not win the All-Star MVP and NBA MVP, but went on to win the NBA Championship and also his fourth NBA Finals MVP. In the 1997/98 season, Jordan was once again on an impressive run as he claimed the NBA MVP, All-Star MVP, the NBA Finals MVP, and the NBA Championship.

RELATED: Top-20 Greatest NBA Players Of All-Time (Updated)

Second Retirement

In January 1999, Michael Jordan retired for the second time. A year later, he returned to the NBA as co-owner of a Basketball franchise, the Washington Wizards. 

Washington Wizards (2001–2003)

In September 2001, he returned as a Washington Wizards player and went on to play until April 2003, where he played his final NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers in front of 21,257 spectators.

RELATED: Michael Jordan vs LeBron James | NBA GOAT Debate

Michael Jordan Baseball Career

In February 1994, Michael Jordan signed a deal with the Chicago White Sox to play in Major League Baseball (MLB). In March 1995, as a result of the MLB strike, he decided to retire from baseball.

Michael Jordan’s International Career

Michael Jordan’s international career is as glamorous as his NBA career. At the 1984 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, Jordan, who was still in college, led the US team in points and picked his first Olympics gold medal. In the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics, Jordan, who was part of the star-studded Dream team, won his second Olympics Gold medal. He also won Gold at the 1983 Caracas Pan American games and the 1992 Portland FIBA America’s Championship. 

Michael Jordan’s Wife, Personal Life & Charity

In 1989, Michael Jordan married Juanita Vanoy, who gave birth to three children for him — two sons and a daughter. In January 2002, they filed for divorce as a result of irreconcilable differences but soon reconciled. But in December 2006, they divorced amicably. Juanita Vanoy received a $168 million settlement. In 2013, he got married to Yvette Prieto, a Cuban model. In February 2014, Prieto gave birth to a set of identical twins named, Victoria and Ysabel.

In July 2006, a court declared that Jordan did not owe his ex-lover Karla Knafel, $5 million over breach of contract after it emerged that he paid her $250,000 to keep their affair a secret.

Between 2001 to 2014, Jordan held the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational, a golf tournament, which raised money for charity. Jordan was made The Chief Wish ambassador for the Make-A-Wish Foundation in 2008. As of 2019, Jordan has helped the foundation raise as much as $5 million.

In 1984, Jordan’s Nike Air Jordan shoes were released, and it progressed to become a viral sensation. The brand generated about $1 billion in sales for Nike, as revealed by Forbes. Jordan had various endorsement deals with Gatorade, Nike, McDonald’s, Chevrolet, Wheaties, Coca-Cola, and several others.

RELATED: Top-20 Richest NBA Players Of All-Time

In 2014, following his increased stake in basketball franchise, the Charlotte Hornets, from 80% to 89.5%, Jordan became the first basketball billionaire.

SEE MORE: Biography facts, childhood and personal life of famous basketball stars

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Michael Jordan

Introduction.

Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina. In 1981 he entered the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He was twice named college basketball player of the year.

Before becoming a professional athlete (someone who earns money by playing a sport), Jordan led the U.S. basketball team to a gold medal at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, California. A change to the Olympic rules let professional athletes be members of the team in 1992. Jordan (by then a member of the Chicago Bulls) went to the Olympics in Barcelona, Spain, and earned another gold medal. He and the other U.S. players (most of whom were NBA stars) were known as the Dream Team.

Success with the Bulls

Jordan returned to action in the 1986–87 season and began a streak of seven seasons in a row as the highest scorer in the NBA. He averaged about 32 points per game. Jordan received the MVP award three times during this period, in 1988, 1991, and 1992. In 1988 he was also named defensive player of the year. His efforts helped turn the Bulls from a below-average team into the best in the NBA. The team won the national championship three years in a row, from 1991 to 1993. Jordan was named MVP of each championship series.

After one season of baseball, Jordan returned to the Bulls in March 1995. In the 1995–96 season Jordan led the team to 72 wins and only 10 losses, the best regular-season record in the history of the NBA. He was named MVP of the NBA in 1996 and 1998. The Bulls returned to being the best team of the 1990s, again winning three championships in a row (1996–98). Jordan again was the MVP of each championship series.

Jordan’s combination of skill and personality made him one of the most famous athletes in the world. Crowds came to see him wherever he played. Because of his popularity, many companies paid him to appear in commercials and ads for their products.

Washington Wizards and Retirement

Jordan retired from basketball again, in January 1999. He remained close to the game, however. In 2000 he became co-owner of the Washington Wizards, an NBA team that plays in Washington, D.C. He also took a management position with the team.

Jordan soon decided that he was not satisfied with his new jobs. In September 2001 he gave up his ownership and management positions with the Wizards to become a player on the team. He led the Wizards in scoring in the 2001–02 season. In the next season he passed Wilt Chamberlain to take third place on the list of the NBA’s all-time top scorers, behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone.

Jordan retired for a third and final time in 2003. His career totals included 32,292 points, 2,514 steals, 5 MVP awards, and 10 scoring titles. He played in 13 NBA All-Star games. In 2009 he was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame.

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Michael Jordan Bio: The Life And Times Of The G.O.A.T.

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Michael Jordan Quick Facts 

• Full Name: Michael Jeffrey Jordan 
• Birth Date: February 17, 1963 
• Birth Place: Brooklyn, New York 
• Nickname: Air Jordan, Mike, MJ, G.O.A.T.
• Nationality: United States Of America 
• Siblings: Larry Jordan (Brother), James R Jordan Jr (Bother), Deloris Jordan (Sister) & Roslyn Jordan (Sister)
• Children: Jeffrey Jordan (Son), Marcus Jordan (Son), Marcus (Son), Victoria Jordan (Daughter), Ysabel Jordan (Daughter) Partner / Spouse: Yvette Prieto (Wife) 
• Profession: Basketball player, Athlete, Spokesperson, Entrepeneur, Actor 
• 1990-91: 2.5 Million 
• 1991-92: 3.25 Million 
• 1992-93: 4 Million 
• 1994-96: 3.85 Million 
• 1995-96: 3.85 Million 
• 1996-97: 30 Million 
• 1997-98: 33 Million 
• Net Worth: 2.2 Billion 
• Social Media: Facebook: /jumpman23 Twitter: @jumpman23 IG: @jumpman23
• Notable Individual  Awards: Presidential Medal Of Freedom 2016; NBA Most Valuable Player Award 1998, 1996, 1992; Sports Illustrated Sportsperson Of The Year 1991.
• Last Updated: 2020   

Michael Jordan Birthplace and Early Life  

Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. When Michael was a toddler his family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. 

Michael was famously rejected as a sophomore when trying out for the varsity basketball team, being told he was “only” 5 foot 11.  

Unable to accept this outcome – Michael worked tirelessly over the summer between his sophomore and junior years. He excelled on the junior varsity team, additionally growing another 4 inches, to eventually earn his spot on the varsity squad.  

Michael dominated in his varsity team, averaging 25 points per game in both his junior and senior years. He was selected as a senior to play in the 1981 McDonald’s All-American Game, where he scored 30 points.

In his college years, Michael had now grown to 6 foot 6 and was recruited by several college programs including the University of North Carolina, Duke, Syracuse, and UVA. He eventually chose to attend UNC.

During his time at UNC, he averaged 13.5 points each game and was named ACC Freshman of the year, leading the team to the 1982 NCAA Championship vs the Georgetown Hoyas.

With 15 seconds remaining of the game, Michael hit the game’s winning shot go-ahead basketball over Georgetown’s center – Patrick Ewing.

Michael later revealed this specific shot was a major boost to his confidence and future in his basketball career.

Michael Jordan Professional NBA Career

After his college years, Michael played three seasons at UNC Tar Heels, picking up several accolades along the way. These included the Naismith and Wooden Player Of The Year awards in 1984. He entered the 1984 draft, leaving UNC one year earlier than planned.

In 1986, Michael returned to college to finish his degree and later graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography.

Incredibly, Michael was not the first pick, but the third. Picked after Sam Bowie and Hakeem Olajuwon, he was chosen by the Chicago Bulls.

On September 12, 1984, Michael officially signed his rookie contract with the Chicago Bulls. This was a 7-year contract, worth  $6 million, meaning he averaged around $850,000 per season. In Michael’s rookie season, Bulls attendance doubled.

After his fifth season, Michael and the Chicago Bulls agreed on an eight-year extension contract for $25 million. At the time, this was the largest deal in NBA history. At the end of this contract in 1996, Michael signed a $30 Million one-year deal.

The next year, he signed another $33.14 Million one-year deal. 

Michael Jordan’s Greatest Moments Caught On Video

There are no shortages of incredible Michael Jordan moments, but here is a couple that stands out above the rest:

Michael Jordan Top 10 Plays of His Career

Michael Jordan Breaks Glass Backboard With a Dunk, furthering his nickname, AirJordan

Michael Jordan Retirement and Post-Professional

Michael Jordan retired three times in his professional career.

The first was on October 6, 1993. Michael shocked the world by retiring in his prime, giving the reason that he had nothing left to prove.

However, his second reason may have been due to the emotional pain linked to the death of his father in July 1993. James R. Jordan, Sr. was brutally murdered in North Carolina in a botched robbery attempt. Michael had said he previously discussed retirement with him, and he wanted the chance to spend more time with his wife and kids. In February of 1994, Michael switched careers to baseball, signing up with a minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox.

One year later, Jordan rejoined the NBA and the Chicago Bulls to the delight of his fans. The announcement came in the form of a fax, with two simple but effective words: “I’m back”. He further went on to win three back-to-back NBA championships.

Michael retired again in 1998, following a disagreement with General Manager Jerry Krause.

The world did not expect to see Michael return to the game again.  However on September 25, 2001, now aged 38, Michael returned for a final two-year contract, this time for the Washington Wizards. After this period, he retired for the last time.

Michael Jordan Endorsement and Sponsors

Even though Michael Jordan is best known for being a basketball superstar, he has additionally been a spokesman for multiple corporate brands. These include Nike, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Chevrolet, Hanes, Gatorade, Wheaties, Ball Park Franks MCL and Rayovac. These endorsement deals have vastly increased his net worth in addition to his career earnings. Today, Michael earns $100 million per year from endorsements alone.

Michael Jordan Net Worth and Career Earnings

In 2020, Michael Jordan’s Net worth stands at $2.2 Billion.

His NBA career earnings equaled $93.7 million.

He has the record for being the first athlete in history to earn an annual salary of over $30 million.

A large part of Michael becoming a billionaire was due to his ownership stake in the NBA team, the Charlotte Hornets.

In 2010, he paid $175 Million to buy 80% of the team. In 2014, he increased this to 89.5%. At this point, the team was now valued at $416 million. This combined with his roughly $600 million fortune already, pushed him into the billionaire bracket.

In 2019, he sold a portion of the Hornets to an investment group in a transaction, which valued the team for $1.5 billion.

Michael Jordan Famous Quotes

“ I’m Back.”

“I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I succeed.”

“There is no ‘I’ in the team but there is in the win.”

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.”

“I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.”

“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.”

“Always turn a negative situation into a positive situation.

Question: Why did Michael Jordan Wear 23?

Answer: Michael took the number 23 from an early age at his time in high school. His older brother was number 45, so he halved this number and rounded up.

Question: Why did Michael Jordan Retire?

Answer: The main reason given was Michael had nothing left to prove. The second may have been due to the loss of his father.

Question: What makes Michael Jordan Special ?

Answer: Michael’s performance on the court made him a worldwide icon. The way he carried himself off the court made the NBA a global market. Michael became a brand, and the brand grew the NBA.

Research Citations:

• Sporting News
• Brainy Quote

Michael Jordan

• Born February 17 , 1963 · Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA
• Birth name Michael Jeffrey Jordan
• His Airness
• Roster Guard
• Height 6′ 5½″ (1.97 m)
• Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born in Brooklyn, New York on February 17, 1963. He was the fourth of five children born to James and Deloris. James Jordan was a mechanic and Deloris Jordan was a bank teller. Soon after Michael's birth, James and Deloris felt that the streets of Brooklyn were unsafe to raise a family, so they moved the family to Wilmington, North Carolina. As a youngster, Michael immediately became interested in sports. However, it was baseball not basketball that was his first love. He would play catch in the yard with his father, who loved baseball. He soon started to play basketball to try and follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Larry, whom he idolized growing up. At Laney High School, as a sophomore, he decided to try out for the varsity team but was cut because he was raw and undersized. The following summer, he grew four inches and practiced tirelessly. The hard work paid off as he averaged 25 points per game in his last two years and was selected to the McDonald's All-American Team as a senior. Following high school, he earned a basketball scholarship from North Carolina University where he would play under legendary coach Dean Smith. In his first year, he was named ACC Freshman of the Year. He would help lead the Tarheels to the 1982 NCAA Championship, making the game-winning shot. After winning the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 1984, Jordan decided to leave North Carolina to enter the NBA draft. Although he decided to leave college early, he would later return to the university in 1986 to complete his degree in geography. In the 1984 NBA draft, he was selected with the third overall pick by the Chicago Bulls. As a rookie for the Bulls, he made an immediate impact, averaging an amazing 28.2 points a game, including six games where he scored 40+ points. He was selected to the NBA All-Star Game and named Rookie of the Year. This would just be the beginning of a career filled with awards and accolades. In the upcoming years, he would go on to win five regular season MVP awards, six NBA championships, six NBA finals MVP awards, three All-Star game MVP awards, and a defensive player of the year award. In 1993, tragedy struck Jordan's seemingly perfect life. On July 23, 1993, his father, James, was murdered off Interstate 95 in North Carolina. Two locals had robbed him, shot him in the chest and threw his body in a swamp. Three months later on October 6, 1993, following a run of three consecutive NBA championships, Jordan announced his retirement from basketball citing that "he no longer had the desire to play." Now "retired" at age 33, it was uncertain what Jordan would do next. Would he take a year off out of the public eye to grieve and then come back to the Bulls? Would he go out and look for a white collar job in the field of geography, his college major? Or would he take up a completely different hobby like golf? In early 1994, Jordan decided to take up a new hobby alright. However, it wasn't golf. It was baseball. Despite not playing baseball since high school some 13 years ago, he signed a minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox in 1994. He played one unspectacular season for the Double-A Birmingham Barons. On March 18, 1995, Jordan, a man of few words since his retirement, sent two important words to media sources everywhere: "I'm Back". He celebrated his return to the NBA by doing what he always did best: winning. Although the Bulls would lose in the playoffs to the Orlando Magic, it was obvious that Jordan was still the same superstar player. He would go on to lead the Bulls to three more consecutive NBA championships and etch his place in the history as the "NBA's greatest player of all-time". On January 13, 1999, Jordan re-announced his retirement, saying that "he was 99.9 percent sure that he would never play again". Soon after, Jordan became part owner of the Washington Wizards. Near the start of the 2001-02 season, there were hints that Jordan may try another comeback to the NBA. On September 25, 2001, Jordan confirmed those rumors, announcing that he would once again return to the NBA as a member of the Wizards. His two seasons in Washington were mediocre at best. His statistics were solid and he showed some flashes of his old self but he could not lead the Wizards to the playoffs and missed several games due to injury. He retired for good following the 2002-03 season and was subsequently dismissed as president of the Washington Wizards. In June 2006, he became part owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. Later that year, he filed for divorce from Juanita, his wife of 17 years. They have three children together. - IMDb Mini Biography By: SteveG
• Michael Jordan is an American former professional basketball player and the principal owner of the Charlotte Hornets of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Jordan played 15 seasons in the NBA, winning six championships with the Chicago Bulls . Michael Jordan's individual accolades and accomplishments include six NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, ten scoring titles (both all-time records), five MVP Awards, ten All-NBA First Team designations, nine All-Defensive First Team honors, fourteen NBA All-Star Game selections, three All-Star Game MVP Awards, three steals titles, and the 1988 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award. He holds the NBA records for highest career regular season scoring average (30.12 points per game) and highest career playoff scoring average (33.45 points per game). In 1999, he was named the greatest North American athlete of the 20th century by ESPN. He became a member of the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2015. In 2014, Jordan became the first billionaire player in NBA history. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Tango Papa
• Spouses Yvette Prieto (April 27, 2013 - present) (2 children) Juanita Jordan (September 2, 1989 - December 29, 2006) (divorced, 3 children)
• Children Jeffrey Jordan Marcus Jordan Jasmine Jordan Victoria Jordan Ysabel Jordan
• Number 23 jersey
• Air Jordan sneakers
• Fequently sticks his tongue out when making amazing dunks or layups
• ear ring in left ear
• In a 1988 game against the Utah Jazz, he dunked over John Stockton , who was 6' 1" and 175 pounds. A Jazz fan heckled him, saying, "Why don't you dunk on somebody your own size?" The next trip down the floor, Jordan dunked again, this time on 6' 11", 285-lb. center Melvin Turpin . He then turned to the fan and said, "Was he big enough?".
• In Space Jam (1996) , he tells the Looney Tunes that he used to wear his UNC shorts under his Bulls jersey in every game he played in. He really did do this, as a good luck charm.
• Neither of his parents are more than 5' 9" tall.
• While most are familiar with his obvious #23 and the #45 he wore when he returned from a brief baseball career in 1995, Jordan also wore #12. However, he wore it in only one game--in 1990 after an Orlando Magic Arena employee stole his uniform. It was a back-up jersey and did not even feature a last name. He scored 49 points in the game, leading the Bulls win over the Magic.
• His 1992 playoff game against the Portland Trail Blazers, where he had 35 first-half points and nailed six three-pointers in a row, has been claimed by many as "the closest anyone has ever come to playing a perfect game of basketball." Ironically, Jordan was bypassed in the 1984 draft by the Trail Blazers, who picked Sam Bowie instead, a move that has gone down in history as one of the biggest draft-day blunders.
• If you're trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I've had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.
• You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them. -- GQ, March, 1989.
• In my prime I can probably take LeBron but I'm not sure about Kobe
• [from an a 1997 American Prospect article]Republicans buy sneakers, too
• If you put in the work, the results will come.

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Michael Jordan Biography

Birthday: February 17 , 1963 ( Aquarius )

Born In: Brooklyn, New York, United States

Popularly known as His Airness or Air Jordan , Michael Jordan won the hearts of millions with his famous dunk shot. The basketball legend showed a knack for the game from the time he was in school. Having won several awards in college for his basketball prowess, he decided to compete in the NBA Championships at the age of 21. Though not chosen by the best NBA team, this talented player gave it his all as a member of the Chicago Bulls . He proved to be a match-turner, changing the fate of his team with his talent. From being a losing team, Chicago Bulls began winning most of their matches, and finally emerged victorious for six consecutive championships. This remarkable player is considered a treat to watch, and though he retired on two occasions, he returned every time only to mesmerize the spectators. From Chicago Bulls , he moved on to the Washington Wizards, first serving as President of Operations, and then as a player. After his final retirement, Michael Jordan took over the Charlotte Bobcats as a part-owner, with a majority hold in stakes. He then went on to become the only billionaire basketballer in history.

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Nick Name: Air Jordan, MJ, His Airness, Money, Black Cat

Also Known As: Michael Jeffrey Jordan

Age: 61 Years , 61 Year Old Males

Spouse/Ex-: Yvette Prieto (m. 2013), Juanita Vanoy (m. 1989–2006)

father: James R. Jordan Sr.

mother: Deloris Peoples

siblings: Deloris Jordan, James R. Jordan Jr., Larry Jordan, Roslyn Jordan

children: Jasmine Mickael Jordan, Jeffrey Michael Jordan, Marcus Jordan, Victoria Jordan, Ysabel Jordan

Born Country: United States

Basketball Players American Men

Height: 6'6" (198 cm ), 6'6" Males

Personality: ISTP

City: Brooklyn, New York City

U.S. State: New Yorkers

education: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill

Humanitarian Work: Associated with ‘Habitat for Humanity’, Georgia

awards: NBA Most Valuable Player Award - 1998-1996-1992 Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award - 1998-1997-1996 All-NBA Team - 1998-1997-1996

NBA Rookie of the Year Award - 1985 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award - 1988 NBA All-Defensive Team - 1998-1997-1996 NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award - 1998-1996-1988 Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year - 1991 Best NBA Player ESPY Award - 1999-1998-1997 NBA All-Rookie Team - 1985 John R. Wooden Award - 1984 Best Male Athlete ESPY Award - 1993 Naismith Men's College Player of the Year - 1984 Kids' Choice Award for Favorite Male Athlete - 2002-1999-1998 Best Comeback Athlete ESPY Award - 1996 Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year - 1993-1992-1991 ACC Athlete of the Year - 1984 Dramatic Individual Performance of the Year ESPY Award - 1998

You wanted to know

What was michael jordan's career high in points in a single nba game.

Michael Jordan's career high in points in a single NBA game is 69 points, achieved on March 28, 1990, against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

How many NBA championships did Michael Jordan win with the Chicago Bulls?

Michael Jordan won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls during the 1990s, in the years 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, and 1998.

Which NBA team did Michael Jordan play for before joining the Chicago Bulls?

What is the famous "flu game".

The "Flu Game" refers to Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals between the Chicago Bulls and the Utah Jazz, where Michael Jordan scored 38 points despite battling flu-like symptoms.

What was the iconic shoe line that Michael Jordan launched with Nike?

Michael Jordan launched the iconic Air Jordan shoe line with Nike, starting with the Air Jordan 1 in 1985, which revolutionized the sneaker industry and became highly popular among basketball fans and sneaker enthusiasts.

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Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born to James and Deloris, on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. James worked in the electrical and heavy equipment industry, while Deloris was a banker. The family, consisting of four other children Larry, James R. Jr., Roslyn, and Deloris, settled down in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Michael went to Wilmington's Emsley A. Laney High School, where he developed a love for sports like basketball, baseball, and football. As a child, he was taught by his parents to be hardworking and independent. In school, he wanted to join the sophomore basketball team, but was rejected because he was too short.

Instead of being depressed, he joined the school's junior basketball team. He played exceptionally well, and worked hard to increase his height. Having impressed everyone, he was chosen for the McDonald's All-American Team, the best of all high school basketball teams.

As a senior in high school, the young boy played for college teams like North Carolina, Virginia, Duke, and Syracuse . Finally, in 1981, he was offered a scholarship by the University of North Carolina based on his performance in basketball. In college, he graduated in cultural geography.

At the university, he was trained by the famous basketball coach Dean Smith, and Michael Jordan was named Freshman of the Year by the Atlantic Coast Conference. In 1982, his jump shot was a major factor in the team winning the NCAA Championship against Georgetown University.

In 1984, he dropped out of university with the aim of joining the NBA Draft. The young basketballer was selected by Chicago Bulls after players Hakeem Olajuwon and Sam Bowie were chosen by Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers, respectively.

In the Summer Olympics held in 1984, he was part of a gold medal-winning team that included players like Sam Perkins, Steve Alford, and Patrick Ewing.

Michael Jordan came back to college and graduated from the University of North Carolina two years later.

During 1984-87, as a part of Chicago Bulls , a team that didn't have much luck with victory, Jordan proved his mettle with an above average points per game of 28.2.

He gained immense popularity, which was resented by players of his own and rival teams alike. As a result, team mates did not pass the ball to him on several occasions, and the Bulls lost the playoffs to Milwaukee Bucks . The enthusiastic basketball player took his team through to the playoffs of every season he participated in. The young star scored 100 blocks and 200 steals in a single season, becoming the first to do so in the history of NBA.

Even though the Bulls lost the playoffs to the Boston Celtics, the former fared relatively better than before.

From 1987-90, the new star of Chicago Bulls led his team through to the first round of NBA Playoffs in the first season, and all the way to the finals in the next two seasons. They defeated teams like Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Philadelphia 76ers, but in each season, Detroit Pistons led by Isiah Thomas, beat the Bulls and knocked them out of the tournament.

In the next season of 1990-91, Michael Jordan helped the Bulls sail through and reach the Eastern Conference finals. His team faced Detroit Pistons once again, but this time, it was the Chicago Bulls that emerged victorious. The winners played the NBA finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, earning their first championship victory in the history of the game.

In the next two seasons, the Chicago Bulls defeated Blazers and Phoenix Suns, winning three consecutive championships.

In the Summer Olympics of 1992, he was once again a member of what is known as the dream team, a gold medal-winning group of talented players like Magic Johnson, David Robinson, and Larry Bird.

In 1993, the popular basketballer was observed gambling, an allegation that he owned up to, in an interview on the 60 Minutes show. The same year, on October 6, he publicly declared his decision to retire, stating his father's murder as one of the reasons.

The following year, the basketball player signed up with Chicago White Sox for a baseball contract. This was Michael Jordan's way of realizing his father's dream to see his son play baseball. The same year, he also played for other minor baseball teams, including Birmingham Barons and Scottsdale Scorpions.

Without their star player in the team, the Chicago Bulls failed to perform at the NBA championships. In 1995, the famous player decided to give up baseball and return to basketball, playing once again for the Bulls .

His comeback match was played against the Indiana Pacers , which the Bulls won. His team went on to win games against Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks.

However, in the Eastern Conference semifinal against the Orlando Magic , the Bulls failed to capture a victory. Despite Michael's average of 31 points in each game, Orlando Magic won the season.

During 1995-98, the famous sportsperson played three seasons of NBA championships, beating Seattle SuperSonics and Utah Jazz in two championships. This win, along with five victories earlier, was an important milestone in his career as it made him the six-time recipient of the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title at the NBA finals.

On January 13, 1999, Jordan retired once again from the game. The following year, he came back as the President of Basketball Operations for team Washington Wizards.

In 2001, he decided to begin playing again, and trained rigorously to get back in form. He also appointed his old coach from the Chicago Bulls, Doug Collins, to train his team Washington Wizards.

The same year, on September 25, he announced that he would play basketball for the Washington Wizards , declaring that he would contribute his whole salary for the victims of the 9/11 attack. In the 2001-02 season though, he could not play too many games, owing to a serious knee injury.

In 2003, he played his final NBA All-Star match against Philadelphia 76ers, and beat Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record of scoring the most number of points. However, after several intentional fouls against Michael, the Washington Wizards lost. The celebrated player, however, was given a standing ovation that lasted for three minutes.

Post retirement, Michael Jordan was removed from his post of President with the Washington Wizards. In 2004, he founded his own motorcycle racing team, Michael Jordan Motorsports. Two years later, he became part-owner of the NBA team, Charlotte Bobcats, holding a majority stake in its operations.

During 1984-88, this talented player received several NBA awards, including Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Slam Dunk Contest Champion. He has also won the NBA Championship on several occasions.

In 1984, as a member of the winning basketball team in the Summer Olympics, he was honored with a gold medal.

Sports Illustrated magazine named him the Sportsman of the Year in 1991. The following year, he won another gold medal for his team's victory at the Summer Olympics.

Michael Jordan has been ranked as one of the greatest sports personalities by several magazines, including SLAM and ESPN Sports. He has also been included in the Hall of Fame by Naismith Memorial and North Carolina Museum of History.

In 1989, Jordan got married to Juanita Vanoy , but they separated after 17 years of marriage. As settlement, Juanita received 168 million dollars from her former husband. The former couple has two sons, Jeffrey and Marcus, both basketball players, and a daughter named Jasmine.

On April 27, 2013, Michael Jordan got married to model Yvette Prieto , whom he had been dating for quite some time, at the Bethesda-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church . The following year, the couple had twin daughters, Victoria and Ysabel.

This former sportsperson is so popular that he has been signed on by several big brands as their ambassador. He has endorsed top brands like McDonald's, Wheaties, Chevrolet, Nike, Hanes, Coca-Cola, and Gatorade.

Michael Jordan has donated money for charitable organizations like Hales Franciscan High School in Chicago and Habitat for Humanity in Georgia.

Jordan is known for his competitive spirit, even off the basketball court. He is an avid golfer and has been known to challenge his friends and teammates to intense golf matches.

In addition to his basketball skills, Jordan is also a successful businessman. He is the owner of the Charlotte Hornets NBA team and has a lucrative partnership with Nike for his Air Jordan line of sneakers.

Jordan is a philanthropist who has donated millions of dollars to various charities and causes over the years. He is particularly passionate about helping underprivileged children and promoting education.

Despite his fame and success, Jordan is known for his humility and down-to-earth personality. He has often been praised for his approachability and willingness to connect with fans on a personal level.

See the events in life of Michael Jordan in Chronological Order

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Michael Jordan: The Journey of a Basketball Legend

Michael Jordan, often referred to simply as “MJ” or “His Airness,” is a name synonymous with excellence, greatness, and an indomitable competitive spirit.

Widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan’s career is not just the stuff of legend; it’s the embodiment of passion, perseverance, and unparalleled success.

Early Life and College Days

Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina, in a close-knit family that instilled strong values and work ethic. His father, James Jordan, was a former equipment supervisor and a pivotal figure in Michael’s life.

Jordan attended Emsley A. Laney High School, where he began to showcase his extraordinary athletic talent, excelling in basketball, baseball, and football. However, it was clear that his true passion was basketball. He played on the school’s varsity basketball team and quickly established himself as a standout player. Despite his initial setback of being cut from the varsity team as a sophomore, Jordan’s determination and work ethic only intensified.

Jordan’s college journey began at the University of North Carolina, where he played under Coach Dean Smith. In his freshman year, he hit the game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship, showcasing his potential. Over three seasons at North Carolina, he honed his skills, earning numerous accolades and averaging 17.7 points per game.

The NBA Draft and Rookie Season

Jordan declared for the 1984 NBA Draft after his junior year at North Carolina, where he was selected by the Chicago Bulls as the third overall pick. It was the beginning of an era that would forever change the landscape of professional basketball.

Jordan made an immediate impact, averaging 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game in his rookie season. He was named the NBA Rookie of the Year and selected for the All-Star Game, a preview of the greatness that lay ahead.

Michael Jordan Career Statistics

The Air Jordan Legacy

In 1984, Nike signed Michael Jordan to a groundbreaking endorsement deal that would ultimately lead to the creation of the iconic Air Jordan brand.

The Air Jordan sneakers became a cultural phenomenon, known for their innovative technology and distinctive design. Jordan’s influence on and off the court solidified his status as a global superstar.

NBA Championships, MVPs, and Records

Michael Jordan’s career is synonymous with winning. He led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships in the 1990s (1991-1993, 1996-1998) and was named the NBA Finals MVP in each of those championship seasons. His combination of skill, work ethic, and competitive drive was unmatched.

In addition to his championships, Jordan won five regular-season MVP awards, 10 scoring titles, and numerous All-NBA and All-Defensive Team selections. He holds countless NBA records, including highest career scoring average (30.1 points per game) and the most points scored in a single playoff game (63).

Michael Jordan Career Acheivements

• NBA Championships: Michael Jordan won a total of six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls during the 1990s. He secured these titles in the years 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, and 1998.
• NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards: Jordan won the NBA MVP award five times during his career. He received this honor in the seasons 1987-88, 1990-91, 1991-92, 1995-96, and 1997-98.
• NBA Finals MVP Awards: Jordan was named NBA Finals MVP in all six of the championships he won (1991-1993, 1996-1998).
• NBA All-Star Game MVP Awards: Jordan earned two NBA All-Star Game MVP awards in 1988 and 1996.
• NBA Defensive Player of the Year : Jordan was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year in the 1987-88 season.
• NBA Rookie of the Year : In the 1984-85 season, Jordan was named NBA Rookie of the Year.
• NBA Scoring Titles : Jordan led the league in scoring for ten seasons, from 1986-87 through 1992-93 and then again from 1995-96 through 1997-98.
• NBA All-Star Appearances: Jordan was selected to the NBA All-Star Game 14 times during his career.
• NBA All-Defensive First Team Selections: Jordan was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team nine times.
• NBA All-NBA First Team Selections: Jordan was selected to the All-NBA First Team ten times.

Retirement and Baseball

In a shocking turn of events, Jordan announced his first retirement from basketball in October 1993, citing a loss of desire to play the game. He transitioned to professional baseball and played for the Birmingham Barons, a Double-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox.

His baseball career, while respectable, did not match the success of his basketball career. In March 1995, Jordan announced his return to the NBA, marking one of the most celebrated comebacks in sports history.

The Second Three-Peat

Jordan’s return to the Bulls in the 1994-95 season was met with great anticipation.

His competitive fire still burned brightly, and he led the Bulls to another three consecutive NBA championships from 1996 to 1998. His return solidified his status as one of the most iconic sports figures of all time.

Retirement and the Washington Wizards

After his second retirement from the Bulls, Jordan took an ownership and executive role with the Washington Wizards. However, his passion for the game led to another comeback as a player in January 2001. He played two seasons with the Wizards before retiring for the final time in 2003.

Michael Jordan’s Legacy and Impact

Michael Jordan’s impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond his playing career. His competitiveness, work ethic, and leadership qualities have served as an inspiration to athletes and individuals worldwide. He elevated the global profile of the NBA and helped popularize the sport around the world.

Off the court, Jordan has been involved in numerous business ventures, including ownership stakes in the Charlotte Hornets and a successful line of golf courses. His philanthropic efforts include significant donations to various charitable organizations, including those focused on education and youth development.

The Last Dance: A Documentary Phenomenon

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a documentary series titled “The Last Dance” premiered.

The series chronicled Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls, offering an in-depth look at his career, competitiveness, and leadership. It rekindled interest in Jordan’s legacy and introduced a new generation of fans to his greatness.

The Final Say – His Airness

Michael Jordan’s career is the stuff of legends.

Jordan’s influence on the game of basketball and popular culture is immeasurable, and his legacy endures through the Air Jordan brand and the countless lives he has inspired.

His impact goes beyond the basketball court, as he continues to serve as a role model for aspiring athletes and individuals striving for excellence in their respective fields. Michael Jordan’s career is a story of triumph, setbacks, comebacks, and an enduring legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of sports history.

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Michael Jordan's Life Before He Became an NBA Star

A career as a professional basketball player wasn't always Jordan's destiny, though a few key factors propelled him to become the "greatest basketball player of all time."

Jordan's stable home life remained consistent even after his immediate family moved to the city of Wilmington in the late 1960s, with parents James and Deloris establishing high academic standards and firm ground rules to keep their five children out of trouble.

It was James, a maintenance worker turned supervisor at General Electric, who introduced Jordan to his first athletic love, baseball and built a basketball court in the backyard (and also reportedly inspired Jordan's notorious tongue wag with his own facial contortions).

However, companions recall Deloris, a bank teller, as the more forceful presence of his parents. Her strong will would later be reflected in her son's renowned drive to succeed.

His rivalry with his brother fueled Jordan's desire to be the better player

If the backyard court provided the canvas for Jordan to develop his basketball genius, then it was the presence of its other regular occupant that unleashed the beast of his competitive spirit. Larry Jordan was a year older, and while Michael was already taller, Larry was stronger, equally athletic and not inclined to lose to his younger brother.

The two went full steam at each other on the court every day until bedtime, with Deloris stepping in to calm the boys when things grew too heated.

A determined Jordan eventually figured out how to win on a regular basis and his continuing growth widened the gap between them, but it wasn't clear who the superior athlete was before he reached that point.

Noted their high school basketball coach, Pop Herring, "Larry was so driven and so competitive an athlete that if he had been 6'2" instead of 5'7", I'm sure Michael would have been known as Larry's brother instead of Larry always being known as Michael's brother."

Jordan didn't initially make his high school varsity basketball team

Jordan has often rehashed the popular legend that he was cut from the Laney High School varsity basketball team as a sophomore, inspiring him to work harder and get better, but that's not exactly how things went down.

All basketball hopefuls tried out for coach Herring in the fall of 1978, and Jordan, along with the rest of the promising underclassmen, were assigned to the junior varsity team, with the lone exception of his friend, classmate and rival, Leroy Smith.

It's difficult to argue with the reasoning: The team was returning 14 of 15 players from the previous year, and most – like the then-5'9" Jordan – played one of the smaller guard positions. With the Buccaneers in need of a tree to block shots and rebound, it made perfect sense to select the 6'7" Smith for the final roster spot.

Along with providing a jolt of motivation, the decision helped Jordan develop into a floor leader with regular playing time, and the Laney JV games soon became the hot ticket in town.

Furthermore, Coach Herring showed he had Jordan's best interests at heart by personally running him through drills every day as a junior. The hard work – and a fortuitous growth spurt – turning the gangly teenager into the Laney varsity alpha dog.

He was a standout at basketball camp

If there was a time when the legend of Michael Jordan took root, when teammates and onlookers began to grasp that they were witnessing a talent for the ages, it was during the summer of 1980.

Invited to the annual camp run by the University of North Carolina head basketball coach Dean Smith, a showcase for the state's top players, the Wilmington boy quickly distinguished himself from the pack. UNC assistant coach Roy Williams was stunned by Jordan's combination of athleticism, quickness, intensity, and instincts.

After a day of practice, he told fellow assistant Eddie Fogler, "I think I've just seen the best 6'4" high school player I've ever seen."

Williams then made the rookie mistake of arranging for Jordan to attend the Five-Star Camp outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Although this one featured blue-chip basketball prospects from around the country, as opposed to the smaller pool in North Carolina, the 17-year-old Jordan again treated the competition like a punching bag, transforming him into a must-have college recruit.

Fortunately for the Carolina brass, James and Deloris Jordan had taken to Williams and the paternal Dean Smith, influencing their son's decision to commit to UNC.

READ MORE: How Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird Led the Dream Team to Olympic Gold

Jordan did not receive special treatment at UNC, which kept him humble

After a senior season in which Laney narrowly missed out on a division title and its best player averaged a triple-double, Jordan continued to soar with a record 30 points in the McDonald's All-American Game.

However, he soon experienced a welcome return to earth with his immersion in Dean Smith's program at UNC. The even-keeled Smith forged team unity by treating his stars and benchwarmers equally, and Jordan was happy to let his effort do the talking in the highly regimented practices.

"[Smith] was the perfect guy for me," Jordan later said. "He kept me humble, but he challenged me."

As it turned out, they were perfect for each other: When Jordan coolly sank a go-ahead jump shot with 15 seconds left in the 1982 NCAA title game against Georgetown University, he gave Coach Smith his first NCAA championship.

And with that first major, televised triumph, Jordan was officially on the map as a young American sports star, ready for the next steps in a career that would carry him to unprecedented heights of success and fame.

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Michael Jordan

• Occupation: Basketball Player
• Born: February 17, 1963 in Brooklyn, New York
• Nicknames: Air Jordan, His Airness, MJ
• Best known for: Widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time
• Michael was cut from the varsity team his sophomore year in high school. Boy, did he make a comeback!
• Michael was famous for sticking out his tongue when he made moves or dunked.
• Jordan was the NBA leader in scoring for 10 seasons.
• Michael Jordan starred with Bugs Bunny in the movie Space Jam .
• Jordan might be just as famous for his Nike shoe the Air Jordan as for his basketball career.

Español NEW Michael Jordan facts for kids Quick facts for kids Michael Jordan Minority owner Personal information Born (1963-02-17) February 17, 1963 (age 61) , U.S. High school ( ) Listed height 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) Listed weight 216 lb (98 kg) Career information College North Carolina (1981–1984) 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall Selected by the Pro career 1984–1993, 1995–1998, 2001–2003 League Career history 1984–1993, 1995–1998 2001–2003 Career highlights and awards (1991–1993, 1996–1998) (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998) 23 23 Sportsperson of the Year (1991) National Player of the Year (1983, 1984) All-American (1981) (2016) Career NBA statistics Points 32,292 (30.1 ppg) Rebounds 6,672 (6.2 rpg) Assists 5,633 (5.3 apg) Men's basketball Men's basketball 1992 Portland Men's basketball 1983 Caracas Men's basketball Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963), also known by his initials MJ , is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. He played fifteen seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), winning six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls . Jordan is the main owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets of the NBA and of 23XI Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series . He was an important part of making the NBA popular around the world in the 1980s and 1990s. Jordan played college basketball for three seasons under coach Dean Smith with the North Carolina Tar Heels. As a freshman, he was a member of the Tar Heels' national championship team in 1982. Jordan joined the Bulls in 1984 as the third overall draft pick. He became known for his leaping ability. Performing slam dunks from the free-throw line in Slam Dunk Contests, earned him the nicknames " Air Jordan " and " His Airness ." Jordan suddenly retired from basketball before the 1993–94 NBA season to play Minor League Baseball but returned to the Bulls in March 1995 and won many more awards as a basketball player. Companies who sell products paid Jordan to endorse (publicly support or approve of something) their products. The most popular endorsement was Nike 's Air Jordan sneakers, which were introduced in 1984 and remain popular today. College career First retirement and stint in minor league baseball (1993–1995), "i'm back:" chicago bulls (1995-1998), second retirement (1999–2001), washington wizards (2001–2003), final retirement (2003), player profile, charlotte bobcats/hornets, 23xi racing, personal life, endorsements, business ventures, philanthropy, film and television, regular season, awards and honors, michael jordan quotes, interesting facts about michael jordan. Jordan was born at Cumberland Hospital in Fort Greene, Brooklyn , New York City, on February 17, 1963. He is the son of bank employee Deloris (née Peoples) and equipment supervisor James R. Jordan Sr. In 1968, he moved with his family to Wilmington, North Carolina . Jordan attended Emsley A. Laney High School in Wilmington, where he played basketball, baseball, and football. During his sophomore year, he tried out for the varsity (highest level in high school) basketball team but did not make the cut. This motivated him to work and train harder. His hard work paid off when he made the varsity basketball team the next year. Jordan was recruited by many colleges to play basketball for them. In 1981, he accepted a basketball scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , where he played for the Tar Heels and majored in cultural geography . As a freshman in coach Dean Smith 's team-oriented system, Jordan was named ACC Freshman of the Year. He made the game-winning jump shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship game against Georgetown , which was led by future NBA rival Patrick Ewing . Jordan later described this shot as the major turning point in his basketball career. Jordan left North Carolina one year before his scheduled graduation to enter the 1984 NBA draft. Jordan returned to North Carolina to complete his degree in 1986 when he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in cultural geography. In 2002, Jordan was named to the ACC 50th Anniversary men's basketball team honoring the 50 greatest players in ACC history. Professional career Chicago bulls (1984–1993). The Chicago Bulls selected Jordan with the third overall pick of the 1984 NBA draft. In his first game, he played at the Chicago Stadium on October 26, 1984, and scored 16 points. Roy S. Johnson of The New York Times described him as "the phenomenal rookie of the Bulls" in November, and Jordan appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated with the heading "A Star Is Born" in December. Another event that helped Jordan rise to fame took place during an exhibition game in Trieste , Italy . Jordan shattered the glass on a backboard during a slam dunk . Shortly afterward, during the third game of the 1985–86 season, he broke his foot, causing him to miss 64 games. Jordan completely recovered in time for the 1986–87 season and became the only player other than Wilt Chamberlain to score 3,000 points in a season. The Bulls entered the 1989–90 season as a team on the rise, with their core group of Jordan and young improving players like Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant , and under the guidance of new coach Phil Jackson . In the years 1991-1993, Jordan led the Bulls to three straight NBA finals and won them. This is called a "three-peat." Jordan became the first player in NBA history to win three straight NBA Finals MVP awards. Throughout his basketball career, he regularly led the league in scoring, in winning MVP (Most Valuable Player) Awards, and in winning other awards. During the Bulls' 1993 NBA playoffs, Jordan was seen gambling in Atlantic City, New Jersey , the night before a game against the New York Knicks. The previous year, he admitted that he had to cover $57,000 in gambling losses, and author Richard Esquinas wrote a book in 1993 claiming he had won $1.25 million from Jordan on the golf course. Michael Jordan Birmingham Barons – No. 45, 35 Right Right Birmingham Barons (1994–1995) Scottsdale Scorpions (1994) On October 6, 1993, Jordan announced his retirement, saying that he lost his desire to play basketball. Jordan later said that the death of his father three months earlier helped shape his decision. James R. Jordan Sr. died on July 23, 1993, in Lumberton, North Carolina . Jordan was close to his father; as a child, he imitated the way his father stuck out his tongue while concentrating on his work. He later adopted it as his own signature, often displaying it as he drove to the basket. In 1996, he founded a Chicago-area Boys & Girls Club and dedicated it to his father. In his 1998 autobiography For the Love of the Game , Jordan wrote that he was preparing for retirement as early as the summer of 1992. Being tired from taking part in "Dream Team" during the 1992 Summer Olympics helped Jordan make this decision. Jordan further surprised the sports world by signing a Minor League Baseball contract with the Chicago White Sox on February 7, 1994. He reported to spring training in Sarasota, Florida , and was assigned to the team's minor league system on March 31, 1994. Jordan said that he wanted to chase the dream of his late father, who had always seen his son as a Major League Baseball player. On March 18, 1995, Jordan announced his return to the NBA through a two-word press release: "I'm back." The next day, Jordan took to the court with the Bulls. His team did not make it to the playoffs that year. Jordan worked and trained hard for the 1995–96 season. Dennis Rodman joined the team, and the Bulls began winning again. From 1993 through 1998, Jordan and Rodman led the Bulls to a second "three-peat." Jordan earned his fourth, fifth, and sixth Finals MVP Awards during these years as well. The 1998 Finals holds the highest television rating of any Finals series in history. Jordan retired from the NBA for the second time on January 13, 1999. On January 19, 2000, he became part owner and president of basketball operations for the Washington Wizards . Despite his January 1999 claim that he was "99.9% certain" he would never play another NBA game, Jordan expressed interest in making another comeback in the summer of 2001, this time with his new team. He spent much of the spring and summer of 2001 in training and hired his old Chicago Bulls head coach, Doug Collins, as Washington's coach for the next season. On September 25, 2001, Jordan announced his return to the NBA to play for the Washington Wizards. He said that he would give his salary as a player to the victims of the September 11 attacks . Although the Wizards finished the season with a better record and in previous years, Jordan's age was catching up with him. He was not able to play as well as he did when he was younger. His season ended after only 60 games. Playing in his 14th and final NBA All-Star Game in 2003, Jordan passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the all-time leading scorer in All-Star Game history, a record since broken by Kobe Bryant and LeBron James . During Jordan's final two seasons, the Wizards did not make the playoffs. Jordan openly said that his teammates did not have enough focus and intensity. Jordan received a four-minute standing ovation in his final game at the United Center in Chicago, which was his old home court. Jordan played his final NBA game on April 16, 2003, in Philadelphia . Jordan received a three-minute standing ovation from his teammates, his opponents, the officials, and the crowd of 21,257 fans. Jordan was a shooting guard who could also play as a small forward and a point guard . He had a well-known work ethic. He also looked for weak spots in other players and would play to beat those weak spots. Jordan was known to have strong eyesight. Of the 15 seasons Jordan was in the NBA, he played all 82 regular season games nine times. He excelled at driving to the basket as well as drawing fouls. Jordan also developed the ability to post up his opponents and score with his trademark fadeaway jump shot, using his leaping ability to keep opponents from blocking his shots. The three-point field goal was not Jordan's strength, especially in his early years. Later in Jordan's career, he improved his three-point shooting. Jordan is the most decorated player in NBA history. Jordan finished among the top three in regular season MVP voting 10 times. He was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996, and selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021. Jordan is one of only seven players in history to win an NCAA championship, an NBA championship, and an Olympic gold medal (doing so twice with the 1984 and 1992 U.S. men's basketball teams). Since 1976, the year of the ABA–NBA merger, Jordan and Scottie Pippen are the only two players to win six NBA Finals playing for one team. In the All-Star Game fan ballot, Jordan received the most votes nine times, more than any other player. TV sports channels and magazines have talked and written much about him, saying he is the greatest athlete of all time. They have said that his athletic leaping ability, shown in his back-to-back Slam Dunk Contest championships in 1987 and 1988, has influenced young players. Several NBA players have stated that they considered Jordan as their role model while they were growing up. In August 2009, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts , opened a Michael Jordan exhibit that contained items from his college and NBA careers as well as from the 1992 "Dream Team." The exhibit also includes a batting baseball glove to represent Jordan's short career in Minor League Baseball . In 2016, President Barack Obama honored Jordan with the Presidential Medal of Freedom . In October 2021, Jordan was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. In September 2022, Jordan's jersey in which he played the opening game of the 1998 NBA Finals was sold for $10.1 million, making it the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia in history. Post retirement After his third retirement, Jordan assumed that he would be able to return to his front-office position as Director of Basketball Operations with the Wizards. However, On May 7, 2003, Wizards owner Abe Pollin fired Jordan. Jordan kept busy over the next few years. He stayed in shape, played golf in celebrity charity tournaments, and spent time with his family in Chicago. He also promoted his clothing brand and rode motorcycles. Since 2004, Jordan has owned Michael Jordan Motorsports. On June 15, 2006, Jordan bought a minority stake in the Charlotte Bobcats (known as the Hornets since 2013), becoming the team's second-largest shareholder behind majority owner Robert L. Johnson . On March 17, 2010, the NBA Board of Governors unanimously approved Jordan's purchase of the Bobcats from Johnson, making him the first former player to become the majority owner of an NBA team. It also made him the league's only African-American majority owner. During the 2019 NBA offseason, Jordan sold a minority piece of the Hornets to Gabe Plotkin and Daniel Sundheim. He kept the majority of the team for himself, as well as the role of chairman. On September 21, 2020, Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin announced they would be fielding a NASCAR team with Bubba Wallace driving, beginning competition in the 2021 season. On October 22, the team's name was confirmed to be 23XI Racing (pronounced twenty-three eleven) and the team's entry would bear No. 23. The team's first race was the Daytona 500 on February 14, 2021. Jordan is the fourth of five children. He has two older brothers, Larry Jordan and James R. Jordan Jr., one older sister, Deloris, and one younger sister, Roslyn. Jordan married Juanita Vanoy on September 2, 1989, at A Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas , Nevada . They had two sons, Jeffrey and Marcus , and a daughter, Jasmine. After filing for divorce, getting back together, and filing for divorce again, the couple remained divorced as of December 29, 2006. Juanita received a $168 million settlement (equivalent to $244 million in 2024). In 1991, Jordan purchased a lot in Highland Park, Illinois , where he planned to build a 56,000 square-foot (5,200 m 2 ) mansion. It was completed in 1995. He listed the mansion for sale in 2012. He also owns homes in North Carolina and Jupiter Island, Florida . Jordan proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Cuban-American model Yvette Prieto, on Christmas 2011, and they were married on April 27, 2013, at Bethesda-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church. It was announced on November 30, 2013, that the two were expecting their first child together. On February 11, 2014, Prieto gave birth to identical twin daughters named Victoria and Ysabel. In 2019, Jordan became a grandfather when his daughter Jasmine gave birth to a son, whose father is professional basketball player Rakeem Christmas . Media figure and business interests Jordan is one of the most marketed sports figures in history. He has been a major spokesman for such brands as Nike (who created a signature shoe for Jordan called the Air Jordan ), Coca-Cola , Chevrolet , Gatorade , McDonald's , Ball Park Franks , Rayovac, Wheaties, Hanes, MCI, and Gatorade . Jordan also has been associated with the Looney Tunes cartoon characters. In a Nike commercial shown during 1992's Super Bowl XXVI, Jordan and Bugs Bunny played basketball. The Super Bowl commercial inspired the 1996 live action/animated film Space Jam . Jordan also made an appearance in the music video for Michael Jackson 's "Jam" (1992). Since 2008, Jordan's yearly income from the endorsements is estimated to be over $40 million. In 2017, he became a part owner of the Miami Marlins of Major League Baseball . As of 2022 [update] , his net worth is estimated at $1.7 billion by Forbes , making him the sixth-richest African-American , behind Robert F. Smith , David Steward , Oprah Winfrey , Kanye West , and Rihanna . Jordan co-owns an automotive group which bears his name. The restaurant industry is another business interest of Jordan. He has owned several restaurants and is the majority investor in a Florida golf course, Grove XXIII, which opened in 2019. In September 2020, Jordan became an investor and advisor for DraftKings. From 2001 to 2014, Jordan hosted an annual golf tournament, the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational, that raised money for various charities. In 2006, Jordan and his wife Juanita pledged $5 million to Chicago's Hales Franciscan High School. The Jordan Brand has made donations to Habitat for Humanity and a Louisiana branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. In 2015, Jordan won a lawsuit against supermarkets that had used his name without permission. He donated the money he won to 23 different Chicago charities. In 2017, Jordan gave $7 million to open two Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Clinics in Charlotte, North Carolina . In 2018, after Hurricane Florence damaged parts of North Carolina, including his former hometown of Wilmington, Jordan donated $2 million to relief efforts. He gave $1 million to aid the Bahamas' recovery following Hurricane Dorian in 2019. As of 2019, he had raised more than $5 million for the Make-A-Wish Foundation . On June 5, 2020, Jordan and his brand announced that they would be donating $100 million over the next 10 years to organizations dedicated to "ensuring racial equality, social justice, and greater access to education." In February 2021, Jordan gave $10 million to open two more Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Clinics. Jordan played himself in the 1996 comedy film Space Jam . He was the subject of two documentaries: Michael Jordan to the Max in 2000 and The Last Dance in 2020. He also appeared in the 2022 miniseries The Captain , which follows the life and career of Derek Jeter . Jordan has authored books focusing on his life, basketball career, and worldview. Rare Air: Michael on Michael , with Mark Vancil and Walter Iooss (Harper San Francisco, 1993) I Can't Accept Not Trying: Michael Jordan on the Pursuit of Excellence , with Mark Vancil and Sandro Miller (Harper San Francisco, 1994) For the Love of the Game: My Story , with Mark Vancil (Crown Publishers, 1998) Driven from Within , with Mark Vancil (Atria Books, 2005) NBA career statistics Legend   GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game  FG%  Field goal percentage  3P%  3-point field goal percentage  FT%  Free throw percentage  RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game  BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game     Career high Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG 1984–85 Chicago * * 38.3 .515 .173 .845 6.5 5.9 2.4 .8 28.2 1985–86 Chicago 18 7 25.1 .457 .167 .840 3.6 2.9 2.1 1.2 22.7 1986–87 Chicago * * 40.0 .482 .182 5.2 4.6 2.9 1.5 * 1987–88 Chicago * * .535 .132 .841 5.5 5.9 * 35.0* 1988–89 Chicago 81 81 40.2* .538 .276 .850 2.9 .8 32.5* 1989–90 Chicago * * 39.0 .526 .376 .848 6.9 6.3 2.8* .7 33.6* 1990–91† Chicago * * 37.0 .312 .851 6.0 5.5 2.7 1.0 31.5* 1991–92† Chicago 80 80 38.8 .519 .270 .832 6.4 6.1 2.3 .9 30.1* 1992–93† Chicago 78 78 39.3 .495 .352 .837 6.7 5.5 2.8* .8 32.6* 1994–95 Chicago 17 17 39.3 .411 .801 6.9 5.3 1.8 .8 26.9 1995–96† Chicago * 37.7 .495 .427 .834 6.6 4.3 2.2 .5 30.4* 1996–97† Chicago * 37.9 .486 .374 .833 5.9 4.3 1.7 .5 29.6* 1997–98† Chicago * * 38.8 .465 .238 .784 5.8 3.5 1.7 .5 28.7* 2001–02 Wash­ington 60 53 34.9 .416 .189 .790 5.7 5.2 1.4 .4 22.9 2002–03 Wash­ington 67 37.0 .445 .291 .821 6.1 3.8 1.5 .5 20.0 Career 1,072 1,039 38.3 .497 .327 .835 6.2 5.3 2.3 .8 30.1 All-Star 13 13 29.4 .472 .273 .750 4.7 4.2 2.8 .5 20.2 Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG 1985 Chicago 4 4 42.8 .436 .125 .828 5.8 1.0 29.3 1986 Chicago 3 3 .505 .872 6.3 5.7 2.3 1.3 1987 Chicago 3 3 42.7 .417 .400 7.0 6.0 2.0 35.7 1988 Chicago 10 10 42.7 .333 .869 7.1 4.7 2.4 1.1 36.3 1989 Chicago 17 17 42.2 .510 .286 .799 7.0 7.6 2.5 .8 34.8 1990 Chicago 16 16 42.1 .514 .320 .836 7.2 6.8 .9 36.7 1991† Chicago 17 17 40.5 .524 .385 .845 6.4 8.4 2.4 1.4 31.1 1992† Chicago 41.8 .499 .386 .857 6.2 5.8 2.0 .7 34.5 1993† Chicago 19 19 41.2 .475 .389 .805 6.7 6.0 2.1 .9 35.1 1995 Chicago 10 10 42.0 .484 .367 .810 6.5 4.5 2.3 1.4 31.5 1996† Chicago 18 18 40.7 .459 .403 .818 4.9 4.1 1.8 .3 30.7 1997† Chicago 19 19 42.3 .456 .194 .831 4.8 1.6 .9 31.1 1998† Chicago 21 21 41.5 .462 .302 .812 5.1 3.5 1.5 .6 32.4 Career 179 179 41.8 .487 .332 .828 6.4 5.7 2.1 .8 33.4 Six-time NBA champion – 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998 Six-time NBA Finals MVP – 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998 Five-time NBA MVP – 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998 NBA Defensive Player of the Year – 1987–88 NBA Rookie of the Year – 1984–85 10-time NBA scoring leader – 1987–1993, 1996–1998 Three-time NBA steals leader – 1988, 1990, 1993 14-time NBA All-Star – 1985–1993, 1996–1998, 2002, 2003 Three-time NBA All-Star Game MVP – 1988, 1996, 1998 10-time All-NBA First Team – 1987–1993, 1996–1998 One-time All-NBA Second Team – 1985 Nine-time NBA All-Defensive First Team – 1988–1993, 1996–1998 NBA All-Rookie First Team – 1985 Two-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion – 1987, 1988 Two-time IBM Award winner – 1985, 1989 Named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 Selected on the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021 No. 23 retired by the Chicago Bulls No. 23 retired by the Miami Heat Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor NBA MVP trophy renamed in Jordan's honor ("Michael Jordan Trophy") in 2022 USA Basketball Two-time Olympic gold medal winner – 1984, 1992 Tournament of the Americas gold medal winner – 1992 Pan American Games gold medal winner – 1983 Two-time USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year – 1983, 1984 NCAA national championship – 1981–82 ACC Rookie of the Year – 1981–82 Two-time Consensus NCAA All-American First Team – 1982–83, 1983–84 ACC Men's Basketball Player of the Year – 1983–84 ACC Athlete of the Year – 1984 USBWA College Player of the Year – 1983–84 Naismith College Player of the Year – 1983–84 Adolph Rupp Trophy – 1983–84 John R. Wooden Award – 1983–84 Two-time Sporting News National Player of the Year (1983, 1984) No. 23 retired by the North Carolina Tar Heels High school McDonald's All-American – 1981 Parade All-American First Team – 1981 Halls of Fame Class of 2009 – individual Class of 2010 – as a member of the "Dream Team" United States Olympic Hall of Fame – Class of 2009 (as a member of the "Dream Team") North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame – Class of 2010 Class of 2015 – individual Class of 2017 – as a member of the "Dream Team" Three-time Associated Press Athlete of the Year – 1991, 1992, 1993 Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year – 1991 Ranked No. 1 by Slam magazine's "Top 50 Players of All-Time" Ranked No. 1 by ESPN SportsCentury ' s "Top North American Athletes of the 20th Century" 10-time ESPY Award winner (in various categories) 1997 Marca Leyenda winner 2016 Presidential Medal of Freedom State/local Statue inside the United Center Section of Madison Street in Chicago renamed Michael Jordan Drive – 1994 "The key to success is failure." "Failure makes me work even harder." "If you do the work, you get rewarded. There are no shortcuts in life." "Heart is what separates the good from the great." "If you quit once, it becomes a habit. Never quit!" Because Jordan almost drowned at age 11, he has a fear of large bodies of water. His childhood idol was Magic Johnson . If Jordan did not play in the NBA , his backup plan was to use his degree in cultural geography to become a weatherman . He initially wanted to wear Adidas after entering the NBA. Nike offered him more money than other brands to endorse their brand. In 2020, it was revealed that Jordan had made more than $1 billion with Nike. In 1991, he declined President George H.W. Bush 's invitation to the White House with the rest of the NBA champion Chicago Bulls so he could play golf. For every meal before a game, Michael Jordan held a ritual of eating the same thing four hours before the start of the match: a 23-ounce New York steak, a side of mashed potatoes , a salad, and ginger ale . He is the only professional basketball player over age 40 with a 20 PPG (points per game) average . ESPN ranked Michael Jordan as the 20th century’s greatest North American athlete. The highest bidding on a Jordan sneaker was priced at $71 thousand at an auction. Forbes' list of the world's highest-paid athletes List of athletes who came out of retirement List of NBA teams by single season win percentage Michael Jordan's Restaurant Michael Jordan: Chaos in the Windy City Michael Jordan in Flight This page was last modified on 26 July 2024, at 18:05. Suggest an edit . Kids Videos KIDS FIRST! Movie Trailers Entertainment Brain Candy Take a Poll Quiz! Test Your Knowledge on Christmas Sho... Quiz! What is your Christmas Spirit? Christmas Trivia Quiz! Quiz! 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Advertise with us Site Safety Safety Guidelines KNOW ABOUT COPPA Parent & Teachers Just For You Connect With Us Michael Jordan Bio Full Name: Michael Jeffrey Jordan Birthday: February 17, 1963 Birthplace: Brooklyn NY (raised in Wilmington, NC) College: North Carolina Tarheels First NBA draft: Chicago Bulls in 1984 Nickname: Air Jordan Height: 6’6 Weight: 215 lbs It was really hard to guess who the greatest athlete of all time was… until Michael Jordan came along. In no other sport has an athlete dominated the game with such grace and humility. Michael was not just a fast, smart and powerful basketball player, but he separated himself from everyone else by being creative and improvising the way basketball was played. Michael made the impossible… possible. Young Mikey Michael’s favorite sport was actually baseball because his dad James loved it so much. It was his brother Larry that got Mike to jump into basketball. But Michael was a late bloomer around the hoops. He was even cut by his high school team in his sophomore year. Michael's March Madness The North Carolina Tarheels is the team where Michael must have found his all-star abilities. That's where Michael played college basketball. Even though Michael wasn’t considered the best on the team, he got to take the last shot in the NCAA Championship game (the March Madness tournament) vs Georgetown . The Tarheels were down 1 point at the very end of the game and Michael got the ball... so if Michael hit the shot they would win, but miss they would lose… Nothing but Net! Michael made the biggest jump shot of his life and was headed to the NBA as a confident potential superstar. Greatest Moments of Michael Jordan (ESPN 02/17/2009) Chicago bulls' bonanza. Michael was drafted by the Chicago Bulls not first... not even second, but as the 3rd pick. He could have been a Houston Rocket or a Portland Trailblazer , but those two teams decided to choose different players. Wow... what luck for Chicago!!! The Bulls became a dynasty team for the very first time with Head Coach Phil Jackson , and key players like Scottie Pippen and later Denis Rodman . Becoming the Best It wasn’t easy for Michael to become the best. Even though his numbers were incredible leading the league in scoring, rebounding, assists, and steals, Michael had a difficult time in his first years trying to win a championship. It wasn’t until the 1990s where Michael would 3-peat once and then 3-peat again! Baseball Blues Michael actually took a couple of years off basketball in 1994-95 to play baseball. His dad had been murdered in an armed robbery, so Michael wanted to play the game that his dad cherished so much. Even though he got to play some games for the Chicago White Sox , Michael soon quit and went back to basketball Air Jordan Icon Everyone knows it… the bald headed figure soaring through the sky with a basketball… Michael’s Air Jordan trademark has become a legacy. It all started when Michael won back-to-back slam dunk contests and the photograph’s became posters in almost every kid’s bedroom With his tongue sticking out in every flight, Michael’s image was epic. He revolutionized the fashion of basketball by wearing his black and red Air Jordan sneakers that were against the NBA dress code. He paid the fines with his pocket change from Nike’s endorsements and even now 10 years after his retirement, he is still one of the top 50 highest paid athlete’s in the world. Michael the Master Even though Michael had a tough time retiring basketball, he can’t be touched in the way he mastered basketball. He ended his career unsuccessfully with the Washington Wizards in 2002, but even that season showed how much he loved the game… and that is really what it is all about. ”There is no such thing as a perfect basketball player, and I don't believe there is only one greatest player either. Everyone plays in different eras. I built my talents on the shoulders of someone else's talent. I believe greatness is an evolutionary process that changes and evolves era to era. Without Julius Erving , David Thompson, Walter Davis, and Elgin Baylor there would never have been a Michael Jordan. I evolved from them.“ -Michael Jordan Michael Jordan Info: NBA Rookie of the Year 1985 6 NBA Championship Rings Defensive Player of the yeat 1988 3-time All Star MVP 2 Olympic Gold Medals Michael Jordan Top 50 All Time Plays Related Stories: Rucker Park - The Legendary B-Ball Court NBA Names Top 50 Players (2009) Air Jordan XX3 Basketball Lingo 101 Michael Jordan Facts for Kids Name : Michael Jordan (Michael Jeffrey Jordan) Profession : Professional Basketball Player and NBA Team Owner Born : February 17th, 1963 in Brooklyn, New York, USA Spouse : Yvette Prieto (current) and Juanita Vanoy (former) Alma Mater : University of North Carolina Legacy : One of the greatest basketball players of all time 33 Michael Jordan Facts for Kids Michael Jordan is a former professional basketball player and current over Charlotte Hornets NBA team. Michael Jordan is most well-known for being one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Michael Jordan was born on February 17th, 1963 in Brooklyn, New York, United States. Michael Jordan’s legal birthname is Michael Jeffery Jordan. Michael Jordan is the son of James R. Jordan Sr. and Deloris Jordan (née Peoples). Michael Jordan was one of five children by James and Deloris Jordan. Michael Jordan has been married twice in his lifetime. His first wife was Juanita Vanoy, they were married between 1989 and 2006. His second and current wife is Yvette Prieto, they were married in 2011. Michael Jordan has five children, three with his ex-wife and two with his current wife. Michael Jordan and Juanita Vanoy had two boys (Jeffery and Marcus) and one girl (Jasmine). Michael Jordan and Yvette Prieto had twin girls (Victoria and Ysabel). In 1981, Jordan graduated from Emsley A. Laney High School. In 1982, Jordan began college at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In both 1983 and 1984, Jordan is selected for the NCAA All-American First Team. In 1984, Jordan left college to enter the NBA draft. He is selected by the Chicago Bulls with their third pick. During the 1984-85 NBA season, Jordan averages 28.2 points-per-game in his rookie year. Early in the 1985-86 NBA season, Jordan broke his foot and was out for most of the season. In 1986, Jordan returns to college and earns his Bachelor of Arts degree in geography. During the 1986-87 NBA season, Jordan returns from his injury and scores more than 3,000 points during the season. The only other player at the time to do this was Wilt Chamberlain. In the 1987-88 NBA season, Jordan is awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and the Defensive Player of the Year award. Between 1991 and 1993, Jordan and the Chicago Bulls with three consecutive NBA championships. In late 1993, controversy surrounds Jordan’s gambling habits during their playoff run. Jordan is identified to have been gambling at a casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey the night before a playoff game with the New York Nicks. On July 23rd, 1993, Jordan’s father is murdered by two teenagers at a highway rest area. On October 6th, 1996, Jordan announces his retirement from the NBA. Many people speculate this is a disguise for an NBA suspense for one year. However, Jordan claims the death of his father fueled his decision. In 1994, Jordan signs a contract with the Chicago White Sox and plays one season with the Birmingham Barons. On March 18, 1995, Jordan announces his return to professional basketball and the NBA. Between 1995 and 1998, Jordan and the Chicago Bulls with three consecutive NBA championships. In 1999, Jordan retired for a second time from professional basketball. In 2000, Jordan became part owner of the Washington Wizards NBA team. Between 2001 and 2003, Jordan returned to basketball and played on the Washington Wizards. On April 16, 2003, Jordan played in his last professional basketball game with the NBA. In 2006, Jordan became a minority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats NBA team, today known as The Hornets. In 2010, the NBA Board of Governors approved Jordan’s purchase of the Charlotte Hornets. He became the majority owner and the first NBA player to own an NBA team. In 2020, the documentary “The Last Dance” aired on Netflix. It was about the life of Michael Jordan. It talks about his achievements and struggles with the Chicago Bulls and his stardom. Pictures of Michael Jordan Additional Resources on Michael Jordan About Michael Jordan – Find more information on Michael Jordan on the NBA website. Biography of Michael Jordan – Read the biography of Michael Jordan on the Biography website. Timeline of Michael Jordan – View a timeline of the life of Michael Jordan on the LA Times website. Michael Jordan – Wikipedia – Discover more facts and information about Michael Jordan on the Wikipedia website. This is an author profile for articles that are created from a collaborative effort. It is not uncommon that articles on this site were either written, researched or fact checked by several authors and team members. So this author profile will be displayed to reflect that. Our team of editors, writers and fact checkers do extensive research before publishing articles on the site, and we do our best to provide the most accurate information possible. The History of Michael Jordan for Kids Close your eyes and imagine you are a basketball player racing down the court with your team. From the stands, a huge crowd is watching and cheering and millions more are watching you on TV. You’ve played hard all night. You’re sweating and breathing heavily. Your legs ache and you want to take a break, but you know you’ve got to keep going. It’s the championship game for all colleges across the United States. The game is tied, there are only a few seconds left, and your team is losing by one point! The clock is running. You dodge your opponent to an open spot on the court. The point guard sees you open. The ball is flying across the court toward you. You grab it, jump, take aim for the basket, and shoot. The ball spins gracefully through the air and falls through hoop! You made the shot! The crowd goes wild! With seventeen seconds left your team wins the game. Your teammates pick you up and carry you off the court in celebration.  This was the winning moment that made North Carolina freshman Mike Jordan into Michael Jordan, who became the most famous basketball player of all time.   Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York.  He was the fourth of five children in his family.  When he was just a toddler, his family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. When Michael tried out for the school’s basketball team they said he was too short to play and he didn’t make the team. Instead of feeling bad for himself, Michael worked harder.  He practiced every day and made the team the next year. Eventually, he became the star of his basketball team.  He trained very hard and by the time he was in his final year of high school colleges were asking him to come play for them.  College Basketball After receiving many offers, Michael accepted a basketball scholarship to North Carolina University. A scholarship is where a college pays for all of your schooling. In college, Michael studied geography and played on the basketball team.  He helped his team make it to the championship game. During the final seventeen seconds, his team was losing but Michael took a jump shot and won the game! Scoring the winning shot made Michael famous, and after college, he joined the Chicago Bulls, a professional basketball team. Chicago Bulls and “Air Jordan” From the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s, everyone loved to watch Michael Jordan play basketball. Because he could jump so high, he earned the nicknames “Air Jordan”, “His Airness” or just “MJ.” He had amazing leaping abilities and could do slam dunks from the free throw line in slam dunk contests. During games, he was known for doing trick dunks and dunking over other players. He also used other trick moves like the reverse layup. During the summer of 1984, Jordan played for the U.S. Olympic basketball team. The team won the gold medal at the games that year, which were held in Los Angeles. In the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona Spain Jordan and his team became known as the “Dream Team” and won their second gold medal there. Popular Brands Over the years, Michael worked with several large brands in their advertisements, including Nike, Hanes, Upper Deck, Gatorade, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Chevrolet, and Wheaties. He even acted in a few movies like Michael Jordan’s Playground and Space Jam . The movie mixed live action and animation and had Michael act with cartoon legends Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck on screen.  Nike created a whole line of shoes and sports clothes named “Air Jordan” after him. Many kids at the time wanted to be like Michael Jordan and wear the shoes with his name. In 1985, even though he was a very wealthy basketball player, Jordan knew school was important so made sure he finished the college degree in geography he had started.  During his second season he tore his ACL and was hurt badly, but after this went on to become the first player since Wilt Chamberlin to score more than 3,000 points in a single season. Family Life In 1989, Michael Jordan was married and later had three children. He was close with his children and taught them to play basketball too. Many years later Michael’s oldest son, Jeffrey, made the basketball team at the University of Illinois. Michael always tried to help his children do their own thing and not feel they needed to be as successful as he was or successful in the same way.  He said that the thing that he has tried to tell his children is that they should set their own expectations. Expectations are strong beliefs of something you want for yourself in the future. By the late 1980s, the Chicago Bulls were becoming the team to beat and Jordan was a huge part of the team’s success. The Bulls made it to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1990 and won their first NBA championship the following year by beating the Los Angeles Lakers. A NBA superstar, Jordan became known for his power and agility on the court as well as for his leadership abilities. During his time on the Chicago Bulls team, Michael Jordan led his team to six NBA championships and he won the Most Valuable Player Award in the tournament five times. He became the most famous basketball player in the world and kids everywhere were inspired to play basketball like Michael Jordan and dress like him and wear his number, 23.  At one game Michael Jordan wore a nameless no. 12 jersey because his no. 23 jersey had been stolen! One funny fact about Michael is he was known for sticking his tongue out when driving to the basket or dunking a ball.  In 1993 Michael’s father died and this was a very hard time for him and his family. After many years of success playing basketball, Michael retired and decided to play minor-league baseball. He played for a team called the Birmingham Barons, as an outfielder.  Return to NBA In March 1995, after a short time playing baseball, Michael returned to the basketball court, and re-joined the Chicago Bulls.  He eventually helped them win the championship against the Seattle Sonics in the 1995 to 96 season. In 1997 during the NBA Finals, Michael became sick with the flu. Many didn’t know if he would play this very important game against the Utah Jazz. His trainers told him he should take a break and get feeling better. But Michael wanted to help his team and played anyway. There were many times when he could barely stand during the game, but he ended up scoring 38 baskets and helped his team win the game. The next year was 1998 and Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls were in the last game of the NBA Finals again. This would be Jordan’s last game playing for The Bulls. The Bulls were losing to the Utah Jazz by one point and there were only 5 seconds left before the game was over. Jordan maneuvered back and forth, then took a jump shot and made the basket! The Bulls won the game thanks to Michael!  After retiring from the Bulls, Jordan played a few years later for the Washington Wizards. He donated all of the money he made to families and those who suffered during the September 11th attacks. In April 2009, Jordan received one of basketball’s greatest honors: He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Attending the induction ceremony was a happy but sad time for Jordan because being at the event meant “your basketball career is completely over,” he explained. In 2003, Michael retired from basketball for a second time.  He decided to focus on his businesses, including owning a basketball team. Michael Jordan is still considered a basketball legend.  He was known for his competitiveness and his very strong work ethic.  He spent hours watching videos of his opponents so that he could learn how to defend them. He also had a special “Love of the Game Clause” written into his basketball contracts that said he was allowed to play basketball against anyone at any time, anywhere. This was rare and unusual for a player to request, but Michael loved basketball so much that he didn’t want to be limited by his contract from what he could do. Inspirational Figure Michael Jordan was successful because he had a natural talent and a drive to succeed.  He worked hard every day toward his goal of becoming the best basketball player in the world.  People respected his work ethic and his drive helped him become one of the greatest basketball players of all time.  Remember, he didn’t make the basketball team the first time, but kept working at it until he became better despite being short at the time.   One of Michael Jordan’s most famous quotes is: “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Even if you fail at something, that is okay, because you tried. Everyone who is good at anything has failed many times, but they keep trying and trying and getting better. Not doing something right the first time is okay. You’ll never become better at anything if you aren’t afraid to mess up sometimes. Is there something that you love to do that you would like to become even better at?  Is there a sport or activity that you would like to turn into a career when you are older?  Practice those things that are interesting to you and focus on becoming the best that you can.  The important thing, as Michael Jordan said to his kids, is to set your own goals and your expectations for yourself. 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Michael Jordan: Biography, Basketball Player, Businessman Michael Jordan is a former professional basketball player, American Olympic athlete, businessperson, and actor. ... and I'm going to do it," Jordan said. During his short career in baseball ... Michael Jordan In 1984 Jordan, a guard standing 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters), was drafted by the Chicago Bulls. He quickly became known as an exceptionally talented shooter and passer and a tenacious defender. In his first season (1984-85), he led the league in scoring and was named Rookie of the Year; after missing most of the following season with a broken foot, he returned to lead the NBA in scoring ... Michael Jordan Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963), also known by his initials MJ, [9] is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. ... [70] [71] Jordan's 1985-86 season was cut short when he broke his foot in the third game of the year, causing him to miss 64 games. [72] Legends profile: Michael Jordan Jordan, coming off a gold medal performance at the 1984 Olympics, prospered in the pro game with a fabulous first season, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. He averaged 28.2 ppg, (third ... Michael Jordan Biography Basketball superstar Michael Jordan is one of the most successful, popular, and wealthy athletes in college, Olympic, and professional sports history. Early life Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, one of James and Deloris Jordan's five children. ... Michael Jordan: A Biography. New York: Pocket Books, 1991 ... Michael Jordan Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963) is a former American basketball player. He is widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time. [5] [6] [7] He won six championships and was the Finals MVP 6 times. He played for the Chicago Bulls and the Washington Wizards. Jordan led the Bulls to a then-record 72 wins in the 1995 ... Michael Jordan Biography, Childhood, Career, Personal Life Michael Jordan - Biography and career accomplishments. (Wikimedia) Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963) is a retired American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 15 seasons. ... 11 inches, was said to be too short and couldn't play for his high school basketball team. He ... Michael Jordan Michael Jordan was one of the best basketball players of all time. He led the Chicago Bulls to six National Basketball Association (NBA) championships. He was called Air Jordan because of how he soared toward the basket for spectacular slam dunks. Michael Jordan: Remarkable Basketball Champion Michael Jordan is widely considered one of the best basketball players of all time. Find out more about his life in this short biography. #BiographySubscribe... Michael Jordan Bio: The Life And Times Of The G.O.A.T Michael Jordan Birthplace and Early Life. Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. When Michael was a toddler his family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. Michael was famously rejected as a sophomore when trying out for the varsity basketball team, being told he was "only" 5 foot 11. Michael Jordan Michael Jordan. Actor: Space Jam. Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born in Brooklyn, New York on February 17, 1963. He was the fourth of five children born to James and Deloris. James Jordan was a mechanic and Deloris Jordan was a bank teller. Soon after Michael's birth, James and Deloris felt that the streets of Brooklyn were unsafe to raise a family, so they moved the family to Wilmington, North ... Michael Jordan Biography Michael Jordan is a retired basketball player, known for being the 'NBA' champion on six occasions. ... Michael Jordan Biography ( The Greatest Basketball Player of All Time) Birthday: February 17, 1963 ... he wanted to join the sophomore basketball team, but was rejected because he was too short. Instead of being depressed, he joined the ... Michael Jordan: 7 Facts About the Basketball Legend 1. He was technically never cut from his high school basketball team. The story of Jordan being cut from his high school basketball team has long been part of his personal narrative, but like a ... Michael Jordan: The Journey of a Basketball Legend November 5, 2023. Michael Jordan, often referred to simply as "MJ" or "His Airness," is a name synonymous with excellence, greatness, and an indomitable competitive spirit. Widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan's career is not just the stuff of legend; it's the embodiment of passion, perseverance, and ... Michael Jordan's Life Before He Became an NBA Star As it turned out, they were perfect for each other: When Jordan coolly sank a go-ahead jump shot with 15 seconds left in the 1982 NCAA title game against Georgetown University, he gave Coach Smith ... Michael Jordan Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963) is a professional American basketball player, Olympic athlete, businessperson and actor. Considered one of th... Michael Jordan: Chicago Bulls Basketball Player Michael was the 3rd player drafted in the 1984 NBA draft. He went to the Chicago Bulls. He had an immediate impact on the game and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year his first year. At first, Jordan was known as a great player and scorer, but the Bulls weren't very good. Over time, however, the team improved. Michael Jordan Facts for Kids Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963), also known by his initials MJ, is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. He played fifteen seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), winning six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls.Jordan is the main owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets of the NBA and of 23XI Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series. Michael Jordan Bio Birthday: February 17, 1963. Birthplace: Brooklyn NY (raised in Wilmington, NC) College: North Carolina Tarheels. First NBA draft: Chicago Bulls in 1984. Nickname: Air Jordan. Height: 6'6 ... Michael Jordan Facts for Kids Michael Jordan was born on February 17th, 1963 in Brooklyn, New York, United States. Michael Jordan's legal birthname is Michael Jeffery Jordan. Michael Jordan is the son of James R. Jordan Sr. and Deloris Jordan (née Peoples). Michael Jordan was one of five children by James and Deloris Jordan. Michael Jordan has been married twice in his ... The History of Michael Jordan for Kids Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the fourth of five children in his family. When he was just a toddler, his family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. When Michael tried out for the school's basketball team they said he was too short to play and he didn't make the team. Michael Jordan #michaeljordan #michaeljordankids #biography #biographyforkids #nbalegendSteven is reading a Short Bio about Michael Jordan.MJ(Michael Jordan) is regarded by... assignment homework phd report resume review speech thesis