Biography

Michael Jordan entered the NBA Draft after his junior year at UNC. No matter what he accomplished from that point on, Jordan would always be closely tied to his old school. While no one ever questioned his individual athletic talents, many wondered if he shared the ability of Bird, Magic, and Isiah to elevate the play of their teammates to championship greatness. Jordan was determined to dispel any such doubts and certainly did so in 1990-91 through 1992-93 seasons. Not only did Jordan dedicate himself to winning multiple championships, but he did so by adhering to the Bulls’ Triangle offense, which allowed his teammates to excel as well. At the end of the three years, Jordan ended up accomplishing something that Bird, Magic, and Isiah never did-three straight rings. Sadly, prior to the 1993-94 NBA season Michael Jordan announced his retirement after the death of his father. However, the next season Michael decided to hold a press conference and the statement was short and sweet, yet spoke volumes: “I’m Back.” With two words faxed to news outlets on March 18, 1995, Michael Jordan unretired to lead the Chicago Bulls to three more championships. In 2003 Jordan retired as the Golden Era of Basketball ended.

Present

Jordan has a minority ownership stake in the Charlotte Bobcats, and it might mushroom into a majority stake. He has his Jordan brand. He has to attend his sons’ College basketball games. He has the Hanes thing. He is 46 and keenly aware of his place in the world. This was on display during, of all things, the 2009 NHL Western Conference finals. Game 3. Detroit Red Wings vs. Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center. Blackhawks team president John McDonough asked a favor of Michael: would Jordan put on a Hawks sweater and wave to the crowd? Jordan said he would. Then, with 10:11 left a timeout was called and Jordan stepped out from his glass suite with the hawk’s sweater on. “Its validation,” said McDonough, who understands the significance of Jordan’s gesture: If MJ likes it, you should too.