biography for michael jordan

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Nba: chicago bulls, the wizards and charlotte bobcats (hornets), other activities.

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Michael Jordan

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• The New York Times - Michael Jordan Was an Activist After All
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• Michael Jordan - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
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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

• 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

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

• Birthdate 2/17/1963
• College North Carolina
• Draft Info 1984: Rd 1, Pk 3 (CHI)
• Birthplace Wilmington, NC

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Michael Jordan Biography

Michael Jordan

Professional basketball player, actor, and mass-media phenomenon, Jordan is a star of international status. After joining the Chicago Bulls after his junior year at the University of North Carolina, he quickly proved himself to be a star of the likes of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird . He was quickly dubbed Air, and became a marketing fantasy for various companies, including Nike and Hanes. After leading the Bulls to three consecutive NBA World Championships in '91, '92, and '93, Jordan retired from basketball to try his hand at baseball. He wasn't very good, and he returned to the NBA and the Bulls just in time for the '95 playoffs. He led the Bulls to three more consecutive World Championships ('96–'98) before retiring again in 1999. He acts in commercials and appeared in Space Jam with Bugs Bunny (1996).

Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about.

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

Quotes By Michael Jordan Basketball Players

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.

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A look at the Hall of Fame career of Michael Jordan :

Feb. 17, 1963: Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., to parents James Sr. and Deloris Jordan.

1979: Cut from the varsity team at Laney High in Wilmington N.C.

1981: After two varsity seasons, is selected a McDonald’s All-American and accepts a scholarship to University of North Carolina.

March 29, 1982: Makes game-winning shot in NCAA tournament final against Georgetown.

June 19, 1984: Selected No. 3 by the Chicago Bulls in the NBA draft after centers Hakeem Ojaluwon and Sam Bowie.

Aug. 10, 1984: Scores 20 points in gold-medal game in the L.A. Summer Olympics.

May 16, 1985: Selected rookie of the year after averaging 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists.

Sept. 15, 1985: Air Jordan 1 basketball shoes released by Nike.

Oct. 29, 1985: Breaks his left foot in a game at the Golden State Warriors, misses the next 61 games before returning in time for end of season and playoffs.

April 20, 1986: Scores an NBA-record 63 points in a playoff game, a 135-131 overtime loss to Boston.

April 16, 1987: Scores 61 points in a loss to Atlanta, capping three-game stretch during which he averages 54.7 points. Wins first of 10 scoring titles.

Feb. 6, 1988: Defeats Dominique Wilkins in the NBA dunk contest in Chicago. It’s the second consecutive dunk contest win for Jordan. One night later, wins his first All-Star game MVP award.

May 25, 1988: Selected NBA most valuable player for first time, beating out Boston’s Larry Bird and the Lakers’ Magic Johnson.

May 7, 1989: Makes a game-winning jumper in a deciding Game 5 first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s simply known as “the Shot.”

Michael Jordan makes “The Shot” to lead the Chicago Bulls to a Game 5 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

July 10, 1989: Days after firing Doug Collins, the Bulls hire Phil Jackson to be their fourth coach of the Jordan era.

June 5, 1991: Playing in his first NBA Finals, Jordan rises up in the paint to dunk, switching hands midair for an acrobatic layup against the Lakers. “The Move” helps propel the Bulls to their first NBA title.

June 3, 1992: Jordan makes six three-point shots in the first half of Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Portland Trail Blazers, turning to the crowd and shrugging his shoulders. The Bulls win the series in six games.

Aug. 8, 1992: Jordan scores 22 points as the “Dream Team” wins gold at the Barcelona Olympics. On the medal stand, Jordan is draped in the American flag, covering the Reebok logo on his team-issued warmup jacket.

June 20, 1993: Jordan has 33 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, but it’s John Paxson who makes the game-winning three-pointer in the Bulls’ 99-98 win over the Phoenix Suns for title No. 3. Jordan is Finals MVP for the third time in a row.

Aug. 3, 1993: After missing for three weeks, the body of Jordan’s father is found in a South Carolina creek, although positive identification comes 11 days later. Daniel Green and Larry Demery are later charged and convicted of murder.

Oct. 6, 1993: In a room filled with coaches, teammates and NBA Commissioner David Stern, Jordan announces his retirement. He says there’s a possibility he could return.

Oct. 23, 1993: In federal court, Jordan testifies that a $53,000 check he wrote to James (Slim) Bouler was to cover gambling losses. He originally said the check was a loan for Bouler to open a driving range.

Feb. 7, 1994: Jordan signs a contract to play baseball for the Chicago White Sox. He plays for the double-A Birmingham Barons, hitting .202.

March 18, 1995: Jordan rejoins the Bulls with a two-word fax: “I’m back.”

March 28, 1995: Facing the Knicks in Madison Square Garden, Jordan, wearing No. 45, scores 55 points before finding Bill Wennington for the game-winning jumper. It was the record for the most points scored by an opponent at the Garden — a record Kobe Bryant would break.

May 18, 1995: The Bulls are eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by Shaquille O’Neal and the Orlando Magic. It’s the first playoff series Jordan has lost since June, 3 1990.

April 21, 1996: Alongside Toni Kukoc, Scottie Pippen and newly acquired Dennis Rodman, the Bulls beat the Washington Bullets 103-93 to win their 72nd game of the season, an NBA record. Jordan is the league’s MVP.

June 16, 1996: The Bulls cap a postseason in which they lost only three times by beating the Seattle SuperSonics 87-75. Jordan wins his fourth Finals MVP.

July 13, 1996: Jordan signs a one-year deal worth $30 million, the biggest single-season contract in American team sports history.

Nov. 15, 1996: Space Jam, a movie starring Jordan alongside Bugs Bunny and the rest of the Looney Toons, is released. The movie grossed $230 million despite mixed reviews.

June 11, 1997: A physically depleted Jordan scores 33 in Game 5 of the Finals in what will be known as “The Flu Game.”

June 13, 1997: Jordan and the Bulls win their fifth title, beating the Utah Jazz in six games. Jordan scores 39 in the clincher, winning another Finals MVP.

July 24, 1997: The Bulls sign Phil Jackson to a one-year deal worth $6 million, but management makes it clear that it will be his last season with the Bulls, setting the stage for “The Last Dance.”

June 14, 1998: Jordan scores 45, including a title-winning jumper after he nudges Utah’s Byron Russell before burying an open shot. Chicago wins its sixth title and Jordan collects a sixth Finals MVP. It’s the last basket he’ll make for the Bulls.

Jan. 13, 1999: Saying he is mentally exhausted, Jordan retires from the NBA for a second time.

Jan. 19, 2000: Jordan becomes part owner and team president of the Washington Wizards. His tenure is defined by the decision to select center Kwame Brown out of high school with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 NBA draft.

Sept. 25, 2001: Jordan comes out of retirement (again), this time suiting up for the Wizards. He averages 22.9 points in 60 games in his first season back.

April 16, 2003: Jordan plays in his last game in the NBA, scoring 15 points.

May 7, 2003: Wizards owner Abe Polin fires Jordan from his role as team president after three-plus unsuccessful years.

June 15, 2006: Jordan purchases a minority stake in the Charlotte Bobcats from BET founder Robert Johnson, becoming the team’s “managing member of basketball operations.”

Sept. 11, 2009: Jordan is inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, delivering a scathing speech of the people who doubted him.

March 17, 2010: Jordan buys majority ownership of the Charlotte Bobcats, now known as the Hornets, for $275 million, becoming the first former NBA player to become a majority owner.

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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: 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.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the remarkable journey of Michael Jordan’s career, from his early days in North Carolina to his multiple retirements and comebacks, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sports.

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.

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.

These are just a few of the many honors Michael Jordan received during his remarkable career. His impact on the game of basketball and his legacy as a global sports icon extend beyond his on-court achievements.

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. From his humble beginnings in North Carolina to his ascent as a global sports icon, his journey is a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and an unwavering competitive spirit. 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

Michael Jeffrey Jordan

(Mike, Air Jordan, M.J., His Airness, Money, Black Cat, Mr. June, G.O.A.T., Superman, Captain Marvel, Black Jesus)

Position: Shooting Guard and Small Forward ▪ Shoots: Right

6-6 ,  198lb  (198cm, 89kg)

Born: February 17 , 1963 in Brooklyn,  New York us

College: UNC

High School: Emsley A. Laney in Wilmington, North Carolina

Draft: Chicago Bulls , 1st round (3rd pick, 3rd overall), 1984 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 26, 1984

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2009 ( Full List )

Career Length:  15 years

• Hall of Fame
• 14x All Star
• 10x Scoring Champ
• 3x STL Champ
• 6x NBA Champ
• 11x All-NBA
• 1984-85 All-Rookie
• 1984-85 ROY
• 9x All-Defensive
• 1987-88 Def. POY
• 6x Finals MVP
• NBA 75th Anniv. Team

Michael Jordan Overview

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Other Michael Jordan Pages

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More Michael Jordan pages at Sports Reference

• International Stats at Basketball-Reference.com
• Executive at Basketball-Reference.com
• Minors at Baseball-Reference.com
• College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com

Game-by-game stat line for the player

Player stats broken down into various categories; i.e. home/away, monthly, etc...

Player shooting history

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Player on/off

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• 6/20 HoopsWire: New Research Reveals Michael Jordan’s Defensive Player Of The Year Season Likely Included Home-Biased Stats :  NBA icon Michael Jordan won the 1987-88 Defensive Player of the ...
• 6/19 Belly Up Sports: Nikola Jokic and NBA Chip Away at NBA Aura :  Nikola Jokic doesn’t campaign for awards. He doesn’t follow ...
• 6/18 Last Word on Sports: 2024 NBA Draft: Bulls Work Out Former No. 1 Prospect :  On Monday, the Chicago Bulls hosted several players for workouts ...
• 6/16 The Report On Sports: Maxx Crosby Hopes to Retire with Las Vegas Raiders :  As the NFL season approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders have taken ...
• 6/14 Last Word on Sports: Knicks’ Longtime Trade Pursuit of Star Cooling Off :  The New York Knicks are considered one of the most realistic trade ...
• 6/21 Basketball Reference: Youngest Players to Win NBA MVP :  The NBA MVP award is one of the most heralded individual accomplishments ...