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Michael Jordan is arguably the greatest basketball player of all time — and he’s definitely the richest NBA star in history.
The Chicago Bulls legend — who won six NBA titles during his 15-year career, and who bought the Charlotte franchise after retiring — has a whopping $3.5 billion net worth, according to Bloomberg.
Jordan’s wealth reportedly surged after he sold his majority stake in the Hornets this month for $3 billion to hedge fund tycoon Gabriel Plotkin and private equity mogul Rick Schnall, according to ESPN.
Jordan — who won five MVP awards and broke 10 NBA scoring titles — became the league’s first black owner when he purchased Charlotte for $275 million in 2010, when they were known as the Bobcats.
Bloomberg estimated that the 60-year-old basketball icon-turned-businessman sold a 65% stake in the team and kept a less than 5% interest.
Aside from the Hornets sale, Jordan’s seven-figure wealth also stems from his Jordan Brand apparel licensing deal with Nike, according to Bloomberg.
Michael Jordan is the richest basketball player of all time with a fortune of $3.5 billion, according to Bloomberg, which calculated the NBA legend’s net worth for the first time ever.AFP via Getty Images
Jordan’s time on the court earned him nearly $94 million, according to sports contracts tracker Spotrac.NBAE via Getty Images
Last year, Nike reported that its partnership with Jordan — which began in his rookie year in 1984 — brought in $5.1 billion in revenue for the company, representing a staggering 11% of Nike’s total sales.
As part of the Jordan Brand deal, His Airness signed a contract with Nike that earns him $500,000 per year plus a 5% royalty on all of Jordan Brand’s earnings.
Prtnerships like this one also often include endorsement and bonus-style payments when certain thresholds are met, according to Bloomberg, though the intricacies of Jordan’s contract with Nike have stayed confidential since the star signed it nearly four decades ago.
Based on what’s public about the deal, Jordan earned $255.5 million from the athletic apparel giant in 2022 alone.
Jordan also had endorsement deals with Hanes, Gatorade, Chevrolet, McDonald’s, Ball Park Franks, Wheaties, battery company Rayovac and sports trading card brand Upper Deck.
In 1991, Jordan inked a 10-year endorsement deal with Gatorade, resulting in the famed “Be Like Mike” TV commercial and earning him an estimated $1.4 million annually.
He also appeared on the Wheaties box a record-breaking 19 times — more than any other athlete.
Some of the business relationships Jordan has with these companies are still active, stretching more than 30 years and ranking among the longest-running endorsement deals between a brand and an athlete.
The exact payday Jordan previously or currently received from these deals remains unclear, though they’re collectively attributed to making him the first billionaire NBA player in 2014, at age 51.
During his 15-season NBA career, Jordan won six NBA championships and five MVP awards, plus broke ten NBA scoring titles during his time with the Chicago Bulls.NBAE via Getty Images
Jordan lives in a sprawling multimillion-dollar mansion in Jupiter, Fla., which features his legendary No. 23 on the front gate and his “Jumpman” Nike logo on a regulation-size basketball court.Alamy Stock Photo
He also receives income from owning and operating Nascar’s 23XI Racing, which he launched in 2020 with a star-studded roster including Bubba Wallace, the circuit’s only black driver.
The same year, he was granted an undisclosed equity stake in DraftKings in exchange for “providing guidance and strategic advice,” the sports betting company said in a statement about the deal last September.
And of course, Jordan made an eye-watering salary during his career with the Bulls and Washington Wizards up until his retirement in 2003, at age 40.
According to sports contracts tracker Spotrac, Jordan’s time on the court earned him nearly $94 million.
Jordan lives also has an impressive real estate portfolio. His main residence is reportedly a sprawling mansion in a highly-exclusive gated community in Jupiter, Fla., that he bought for a modest $4.8 million in 2012 before doing a multimillion-dollar renovation on the property, which is set behind a gate emblazoned with his legendary No. 23 on it and features a regulation-size basketball court with his “Jumpman” Nike logo.
Jordan owns a 13-seat Gulfstream G-IV private jet he reportedly has spent about $62 million on.DAPRESS / SplashNews.com
The 60-year-old NBA star custom-wrapped the private jet in a grey-and-white pattern that pays homage to his Air Jordan range of Nike shoes.DAPRESS / SplashNews.com
He also owns a nine-bedroom, 19-bathroom home in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park, two estates in North Carolina — where he grew up and went to college at the University of North Carolina — and another in Ski City, Utah.
Jordan travels to each of his properties in a stylish Gulfstream G-IV private jet that’s custom-wrapped in a grey-and-white pattern that pays homage to his Air Jordan range of Nike shoes. What do you think? Post a comment
The 88-foot-long aircraft can fit up to 13 passengers and two crew members, and reportedly cost somewhere around $62 million to buy and personalize.
Representatives for Jordan at Jump Management, his family office, did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
In a lighthearted exchange that showcases their playful banter, Jason and Travis engage in a spirited debate over which animal’s legs they would prefer to swap with their own. As the conversation unfolds, their contrasting viewpoints offer a glimpse into their unique personalities and preferences.
Jason kicks off the discussion with a bold proclamation: “I might go ostrich. Those things are FAST.” His admiration for the ostrich’s impressive speed serves as the foundation for his argument, highlighting the practical benefits of possessing limbs capable of propelling him at incredible velocities.
Not to be outdone, Travis counters with a sly grin, “Sure, but have you seen a cheetah in action?” His admiration for the cheetah’s unmatched agility and acceleration is evident, as he extols the virtues of swapping legs with the world’s fastest land animal.
As the debate heats up, Jason and Travis trade playful jabs and witty retorts, each steadfast in their allegiance to their chosen animal. Whether it’s the ostrich’s remarkable speed or the cheetah’s unparalleled agility, both men make compelling arguments for their preferred option.
Ultimately, the debate concludes with good-natured laughter and camaraderie, as Jason and Travis agree to disagree. While they may never reach a consensus on the ideal animal legs to swap with their own, their spirited exchange serves as a reminder of the joy that can be found in playful debate and friendly competition.
The pair was captured on video walking beside each other as they made their way out of Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday night
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are officially spending time together!
The “Lavender Haze” singer, 33, was captured on video leaving Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday night with the Kansas City Chiefs tight end, also 33, by her side.
As the two walked together other on their way out of the building, Swift smiled briefly at the camera and appeared to say “bye.” Kelce, dressed in a patterned two-piece outfit, also shot a smile and brief nod to the camera
Swift was part of the crowd cheering on the Chiefs in their matchup against the Chicago Bears Sunday. She watched the on-field action from Kelce’s suite with the athlete’s mother, Donna Kelce. The pair could be seen sitting shoulder-to-shoulder and chatting and laughing together throughout the game.
Trouble” Taylor Swift might be in danger after this incident.
Taylor Swift has been busy flying back and forth to see her boyfriend but now she is facing backlash after it was revealed her private jet flights produced 138 tons of CO2 emissions in just three months.
Swift and Travis Kelce made their first public appearance together in September when the pop superstar attended a Kansas City Chiefs game, for whom he plays tight end. Then the couple publicly confirmed their relationship in November, followed by a series of PDAs on Instagram, during date nights and Swift’s concert in Argentina on November 11.
However, in an interview with Time this month, Swift revealed that they quietly began dating in July after the football star confessed to having a crush on her star during an episode of his New Heights podcast.
As their relationship continues to develop, Swift has regularly flown between New York and Kansas City to spend time with her beau. She also made trips in between performances in South America for her ongoing Eras World Tour. In the past three months alone, the pop superstar has taken more than 12 journeys on a private jet.
Instagram account Taylor Swift’s Jets shows her whirlwind romance with Kelce has produced 138 tons of CO2 emissions in three months. The singer would need to plant more than 2,200 trees to offset the damage—and people aren’t happy.
People have taken to X, formerly Twitter, to express their displeasure with Swift.
“It would take the average person worldwide 34 years to produce this much are you serious,” one person wrote.
“Just casually pushing us towards even more catastrophic climate change disasters that will destroy Third World countries like we saw this summer but its ‘okay’ bc its yalls ‘mother,’” said another.
“Every time I hear about Taylor Swift’s CO2 emissions I become filled with rage like I wish she will forever be remembered as someone who murdered the planet,” a third person commented.
“Isn’t it crazy that regular working class people are pressured to change their lifestyles to minimize their CO2 emissions meanwhile f****** Taylor Swift alone is singlehandedly doing more harm to the climate than roughly a thousand people,” said another.
A fifth person added: “Wasn’t she on top of the list of CO2 emissions for 2022 as well? Some 8000 metric tons! There are no ethical billionaires.”
However, not everyone has come for the singer-songwriter, as some people don’t seem to care.
“Good for her. May she continue to use fossil fuels at her leisure,” one person wrote.
“This is funny. Their love for each is so f****** hot that the planet itself is warming up,” another joked.
A third added: “Climate was already bad even before Taylor Swift was born. Her emissions aren’t the only ones that contribute to CO2 emissions. There are a lot of factors due to which it happens. Go sit in a geography class before ranting s*** on here.”
This isn’t the first time that the “Karma” singer’s CO2 emissions have been in the spotlight. In 2022, Swift was named the biggest celebrity polluter of the year following a report by environmentally-oriented marketing firm Yard.
Based on their regular usage of private jets, the report compiled a list of the top greenhouse gas-emitting celebrities using publicly available data. After topping the list, Swift, who has campaigned for Democrats and spoken out about climate change, faced backlash online. A spokesperson for Swift pushed back on the report following its release.
According to the report, private jets produce the most emissions per passenger as a form of air travel. Yard assembled statistics from the Celebrity Jets Twitter account, which tracks the private jet travel of celebrities, with data going back to the start of the year and covering the number of flights taken by each celebrity, average flight time, miles and greenhouse gas emissions.
Swift came out on top, with a total of 170 flights on her private jet that added up to nearly 16 days in the air since the beginning of the year.
“Quite a large amount considering that she is not currently touring,” noted the report.
The singer’s flights lasted an average of just 80 minutes, the shortest being a 36-minute trip from Missouri to Nashville. Swift’s total flight emissions for 2022 equaled nearly 8,300 metric tons of greenhouse gases, which is 1,200 times more than the average person’s annual emissions.
However, Swift’s representative rejected the report’s conclusions.
“Taylor’s jet is loaned out regularly to other individuals,” the spokesperson said in an emailed statement to Newsweek. “To attribute most or all of these trips to her is blatantly incorrect.”
Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, two of мυsic’s top stars, were aмong the big winners at Monday’s 2024 iHeartRadio Mυsic Awards steммing froм the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.
Swift sent in a clip to Monday’s 2024 iHeartRadio Mυsic Awards to accept the honors for Artist of the Year, while Beyoncé was at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles to accept the honors for 2024 iHeart Radio Innovator on Monday.
Swift, 34, was noмinated against Miley Cyrυs, Drake, Jelly Roll, Lυke Coмbs, Morgan Wallen, Olivia Rodrigo, Shakira, SZA and Usher for the honors.
‘I want to say thank yoυ so мυch to anyone who voted for this award,’ the singer-songwriter said in her speech, as she was seated in a rooм. ‘iHeart, yoυ have jυst been so incredibly sυpportive over the coυrse of мy entire career.’
The Graммy-winner was coмing off a bυsy weekend, as she and boyfriend Travis Kelce spent Easter Sυnday in Pennsylvania before retυrning to Soυthern California Monday afternoon, arriving in Bυrbank at 1:30 p.м PT.
Beyonce, 42, and Taylor Swift, 34, two of the мυsic bυsinesses top stars, were aмong the big winners at Monday’s 2024 iHeartRadio Mυsic Awards steммing froм the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles
The singer-songwriter was noмinated against Miley Cyrυs, Drake, Jelly Roll, Lυke Coмbs, Morgan Wallen, Olivia Rodrigo, Shakira, SZA and Usher for the honors
Swift said that the past year ‘has been pretty spectacυlar’ and she’s ‘so gratefυl for that.’
The singer added, ‘To the fans, it’s coмpletely υp to yoυ to choose how yoυ spend yoυr tiмe, what concerts yoυ want go to, what мυsic yoυ want to мake the soυndtrack to yoυr life.
‘To anyone who has inclυded мe in those choices, I’м so, so, so thankfυl for that.’
Swift said that she has ‘мany exciting things ahead, as she continυed on with The Eras Toυr and has a new stυdio albυм called The Tortυred Poets Departмent dυe oυt April 19.
‘I’м so proυd of it,’ Swift said. ‘I cannot wait to share it with yoυ. Thank yoυ for voting for мe for Artist of the Year. I can’t wait to keep having fυn with yoυ gυys. We have a lot of exciting things coмing υp. Thank yoυ so мυch.’
Beyoncé was presented with the honors by мυsical icon Stevie Wonder, 73, as she noted, ‘I’м honored to receive this recognition froм yoυ, Stevie Wonder – whenever anyone asks мe if there’s anything I can listen to for the rest of мy life, it’s always yoυ – thank yoυ, God bless yoυ.
Beyoncé opened υp on the мethods of being an innovator in her speech.
‘Call мe an innovator and I’м gratefυl,’ she said. ‘Innovation starts with a dreaм. Then yoυ have to execυte that dreaм. That road can be very bυмpy. Being even innovator is seeing what everyone believes is iмpossible.
‘It мeans being criticized often, which often will test yoυr мental strength.’
The Graммy-winner was coмing off a bυsy weekend, as she and boyfriend Travis Kelce spent Easter Sυnday in Pennsylvania before retυrning to Soυthern California Monday afternoon , arriving in Bυrbank at 1:30 p.м PT
Beyoncé was presented with the honors by мυsical icon Stevie Wonder, 73
The sυperstar songstress beaмed as she donned a black leather Western enseмble
Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images
Even in retirement, Michael Jordan just keeps on making history.
The former NBA star is now the first professional athlete to join the ranks of the 400 wealthiest people in America, Forbes reported on Monday. His estimated net worth is an eye-popping $3 billion, down slightly from a projected $3.5 billion in August but still more than enough to catapult him into the upper echelons of U.S. residents.
Jordan’s privileged status is in large part due to his recent sale of the Charlotte Hornets. Earlier this year, he gave up his majority stake for $3 billion, way more than Forbes’s 2022 valuation of the team, which came in at just $1.7 billion. Along with that income stream, the baller has made some $2.4 billion in pre-tax dollars over the course of his career, thanks to his NBA payday and deals with brands like Gatorade, McDonald’s, and Nike.
“Michael’s one of the few people that have had success three times,” Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Washington Wizards, Mystics, and Capitals, told Forbes. “A lot of entrepreneurs, they make it once. They have a big win, take their winnings, retire and [we] never hear from them again, or they try something a second time and it doesn’t work. He’s had three mega successes.” (Leonsis was referring to Jordan’s time on and off the court as a player and then an owner, as well as his partnership with Nike on the Air Jordan brand.)
During his time in the NBA, Jordan was one of the league’s highest-paid players, making $94 million over 15 seasons and ranking as the best-paid player in 1997 and 1998. But it’s his deal with Nike that may be the most lucrative component of his income: Back when the first Air Jordan sneaker came out, the company expected to sell $3 million worth of merch. Within two months, it had reached $70 million in sales; by the end of the year it had brought in a whopping $100 million. Now, according to Forbes, Jordan’s most recent royalty check was for about $260 million.
With $3 billion in his bank account, Jordan could very well just sit pretty for the rest of his life and enjoy his earnings. But Leonsis doesn’t imagine that the hooper will slow down anytime soon, calling out his investment in the NASCAR Cup Series team 23XI Racing, which he cofounded with the driver Denny Hamlin. “I bet you it’s going to end up being a great business for him too,” Leonsis said. “It’s his competitiveness and desire to win.”Being one of the richest people in the country may not come with a trophy, but it’s a nice honor to have alongside all those NBA championships.
In a recent enchanting escapade, reality TV star Khloé Kardashian whisked her adorable daughter True along with her nieces Dream, Chicago, and Stormi to the iconic Disneyland, igniting a whirlwind of joy and laughter.
Amidst the vibrant hues of the beloved theme park, Khloé radiated pure bliss as she immersed herself in the wonderment of Disneyland’s enchanting attractions. From the whimsical delights of Fantasyland to the heart-pounding thrills of Adventureland, the Kardashian clan embarked on a magical journey, creating cherished memories that will undoubtedly linger for a lifetime.
Dressed in stylish yet comfortable ensembles, Khloé and her little entourage captured the attention of onlookers as they strolled through the bustling streets of the park, their laughter echoing against the backdrop of iconic Disney landmarks.
True, the epitome of cuteness in her mini-me attire, clutched onto her mother’s hand tightly, her eyes twinkling with excitement as she experienced the magic of Disneyland alongside her cousins. Dream, Chicago, and Stormi, equally adorable in their coordinated outfits, exuded boundless energy as they explored every nook and cranny of the enchanted kingdom.
From enchanting encounters with beloved Disney characters to exhilarating rides that elicited shrieks of delight, Khloé ensured that her little ones experienced the full spectrum of joy that Disneyland has to offer. As they indulged in delectable treats and posed for snapshots amidst the park’s picturesque scenery, the bond between aunt and nieces flourished, weaving a tapestry of love and laughter.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the magical kingdom, Khloé savored the precious moments spent with her beloved daughter and nieces, grateful for the opportunity to create lasting memories in the company of her cherished family.
In a world filled with hustle and bustle, Khloé Kardashian’s enchanting visit to Disneyland serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing the magic of childhood and cherishing the bonds that unite us. For Khloé and her little princesses, the Happiest Place on Earth truly lived up to its name, leaving them with hearts full of joy and spirits soaring high amidst the enchanting wonders of
If Michael Jordan isn’t the most famous athlete in history, he’s certainly on a short list with about two or three others. Certainly, no athlete has had a greater impact on how sports stars are marketed than Jordan. Here’s a look at his career, from high school to the pros.
Barry Gossage / NBAE via Getty Images
As a sophomore, Jordan didn’t make varsity at Laney High team in Wilmington, North Carolina. He took that hard, and the incident clearly lit a competitive fire that burned so intensely that it bordered on pathological at times.
Bettmann / Getty Images
After starring for Laney’s varsity as a junior and senior, Jordan went on to the University of North Carolina, where he played for the legendary Dean Smith. He was an immediate success. As a freshman in 1982, his jumper in the waning seconds propelled the Tar Heels over Georgetown for the national title and put Jordan on the fast track to stardom. After two more spectacular seasons in Chapel Hill, the NBA beckoned.
Wally McNamee / Getty Images
Jordan’s first foray into Olympic competition came in 1984 when he played for the United States under legendary coach Bob Knight. On a team that included future NBA stars Patrick Ewing and Chris Mullin, Jordan averaged 17.1 points to lead the U.S. team, which won all eight of its games by double digits on the way to a gold medal.
Bettmann / Getty Images
It is remembered as arguably the worst, or at least most unfortunate, draft pick not just in NBA history but also perhaps in all of sports history as well. After Hakeem Olajuwon went first to the Houston Rockets, the Portland Trail Blazers selected Kentucky’s Sam Bowie despite Bowie already having a significant injury history. Portland’s logic was that it already had Clyde Drexler, whose skill set was similar to Jordan’s. The Bulls took him with the third pick, and the rest is history.
Bettmann / Getty Images
In 1985, Jordan was named NBA Rookie of the Year after averaging 28.2 points. The Bulls made the playoffs despite a losing record (38-44), but Chicago was bounced by Milwaukee in the first round.
Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images
If you had said the words “Air Jordan” to someone in 1983, that person would have looked at you like you were crazy. That changed in 1984 when Nike produced the first edition of what would become the most iconic athletic shoe of all time. The original Air Jordans were outlawed by NBA commissioner David Stern because they violated the league’s rule that mandated shoes have a significant amount of white in the color scheme.
D. Raphael / NBAE via Getty Images
Jordan’s second season was mostly lost to injury after he suffered a broken foot in the third game. However, he returned in time for the later stages of the regular season, and the Bulls somehow made the playoffs despite a 30-52 record. Chicago’s reward was a first-round series against the Celtics, one of the best teams in league history. Although the Bulls were swept, 3-0, Jordan still made his mark, scoring an NBA playoff-record 63 points in Game 2.
Nathaniel S. Butler / NBAE via Getty Images
Jordan’s third season (1986-87) was spectacular, as he averaged 37.1 points and became only the second player, along with Wilt Chamberlain, to score 3,000 points in a season. He lost out on the MVP to Magic Johnson but won it the next season when he averaged 35 points. His third season began a run in which he would win the scoring title in every full season he played up until his second retirement in 1998.
Chicago Tribune / Getty Images
Jordan’s reputation as the ultimate clutch player began in Cleveland in 1989. The Bulls trailed the favored Cavaliers, 100-99, courtesy of a Craig Ehlo layup with three seconds left. On the ensuing inbounds play, Jordan beat a double team to get the ball, moved to his left and then hit a double-clutch foul line jumper, besting tight defense from Ehlo, to give the Bulls a 101-100 win and the first-round playoff series..
Allen Einstein / NBAE via Getty Images
Despite Jordan’s individual brilliance, the Bulls repeatedly found themselves stymied by a tough, talented “Bad Boys” Pistons teams in the playoffs. Detroit’s “Jordan Rules” limited Jordan’s freedom on offense, and the Pistons eliminated the Bulls in the second round of the 1988 playoffs and in the 1989 and 1990 Eastern Conference Finals.
Focus on Sport / Getty Images
Jordan and the Bulls finally got past the Pistons in the 1991 Eastern Conference Finals, sweeping Detroit and getting revenge for three straight postseason exits. Chicago used the triangle offense, the brainchild of assistant coach Tex Winter and head coach Phil Jackson, and finally handled Detroit’s physical — bordering on dirty — defensive style.
Nathaniel S. Butler / NBAE / Getty Images
After emphatically defeating their nemesis in the 1991 Eastern Finals, the Bulls met the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. The Lakers were no match for a balanced Bulls team, led by Jordan, and Chicago prevailed in five games. MJ averaged 31.2 points and earned the first of six Finals MVP Awards.
Icon Sportswire / Getty Images
Fresh off a second straight NBA title in 1992, Jordan added to his trophy case later that summer, as he averaged 14.9 points for a star-studded U.S. Olympic squad dubbed “The Dream Team.” That squad obliterated the competition on its way to a gold medal, and Jordan was the only player to start all eight games. He didn’t have to do much work, though, because most of the games were over after the first 10 minutes.
Andrew D. Bernstein / NBAE / Getty Images
Jordan lost out on the 1992-93 NBA MVP Award to Charles Barkley. He got the last laugh, however, when his Bulls beat Barkley’s Suns in six games to win their third straight championship. Jordan averaged 41 points in the series, a Finals record, and became the first player in history to win three straight Finals MVP Awards.
Battles with the Knicks
Nathaniel S. Butler / NBAE via Getty Images
After leaving the Pistons in the dust, Jordan needed a new foil, and he found one in the rough-and-tumble Knicks, who were led by Jordan’s one-time college adversary, Patrick Ewing. The Knicks never got past Jordan and the Bulls in the playoffs, but their battles, which featured plenty of bad blood and interaction between Jordan and the Madison Square Garden crowd (Spike Lee!) were appointment viewing in the early ’90s.
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Andrew D. Bernstein / NBAE via Getty Images
Jordan was on top of the basketball world after three straight titles, but he was rocked when his father, James, was carjacked and killed in July 1993. MJ shocked the sports world with what he did next.
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Jim Gund / Getty Images
After his father’s death, Jordan retired from basketball in October 1993, citing a loss of desire to play the game. (He alluded to his father’s death as a contributing factor too.) He further shocked observers by signing a minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox in February 1994, later stating that the decision was made in part to pursue his late father’s dream that he would play professional baseball.
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JOHN RUTHROFF / AFP / Getty Images
Although he was starting to have success with the Double-A Birmingham Barons, Jordan quit baseball because of the ongoing Major League Baseball strike and other factors. On March 18, 1995, after some speculation, Jordan announced that he was returning to the hardwood. The news release was brief: “I’m back.”
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VINCENT LAFORET / AFP / Getty Images
Jordan’s No. 23, which he had worn since high school, had been retired by the Bulls the previous November. He decided to keep one connection to his brief flirtation with baseball by wearing the No. 45 for Chicago, the same number he had worn with the Barons.
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Andy Hayt / NBAE via Getty Images
On March 28, 1995, against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, Jordan exploded for 55 points in a game that became known as “Double Nickel.” The win helped propel the Bulls to a 13-4 mark in their final 17 regular-season games. But Chicago’s run at another title fell short — it lost to Orlando in the Eastern Conference semifinals in six games.
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PETER PAWINSKI / AFP / Getty Images
Fully back and invested in basketball at the start of the 1995-96 season, Jordan tortured opponents with a new weapon — a virtually unstoppable fadeaway jumper. The Bulls went a then-record 72-10 in his first full season back, and Jordan started a run of three straight scoring titles, three straight championships and three straight Finals MVP Awards. Not bad for a guy who had been consumed by baseball a year prior. In the 1996 Finals. the Bulls beat Seattle in six games.
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Nathaniel S. Butler / NBAE via Getty Images
In the 1997 NBA Finals, the Bulls took on a formidable Jazz team, one that featured league MVP Karl Malone. After hitting a buzzer-beater to win Game 1 for Chicago, Jordan topped himself with his performance in a pivotal Game 5. Weakened by a stomach virus and at times requiring the support of teammates just to stand, Jordan scored 38 points and hit the game-clinching three-pointer with under 30 seconds to go. The performance, viewed by some as the greatest of Jordan’s career given his poor health, became known as the “Flu Game.”
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Scott Cunningham / NBAE / Getty Images
In the 1998 Finals, Jordan’s Bulls again met the Jazz, and once again Utah was a tough opponent. Looking to clinch the series in Game 6, Chicago trailed by three with 41 seconds remaining. Jordan hit a jumper to cut the deficit to one and then stripped Karl Malone on the ensuing possession. As he brought the ball down the court, Jordan was isolated on Bryon Russell, faked right, went left (possibly pushing off) and then buried the winning shot with five seconds left.
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Matthew Stockman / ALLSPORT / Getty Images
The Bulls were about to be broken up, with Scottie Pippen, Phil Jackson and Dennis Rodman all on their way out, and the NBA was in the midst of a lockout. So Jordan announced his second retirement, on Jan. 13, 1999. But for Jordan’s flirtation with baseball, it’s fair to wonder whether the Bulls would have won eight straight championships.
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Rocky Widner / NBAE / Getty Images
Jordan moved to the front office in January 2000, as he assumed part ownership of the Washington Wizards. Jordan also took over as president of basketball operations in Washington, a position that afforded him final say over all personnel matters. Unable to stay away from on-court competition and inspired by the NHL comeback of his friend Mario Lemieux, Jordan joined the Wizards as a player at the start of the 2001 season. After two seasons in Washington, Jordan had his farewell tour throughout the latter portion of the 2002-03 campaign.
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Ezra Shaw / Getty Images
On April 16, 2003, Jordan played his final game, against the 76ers in Philadelphia. He finished with a pedestrian 15 points on 6-of-15 shooting. After pleas from the crowd and Washington head coach Doug Collins, he reentered the game in the waning minutes and was intentionally fouled by Eric Snow. Jordan hit two free throws, and then the Wizards fouled intentionally so Jordan could check out of the game. As he walked off the court for the final time, Jordan received a standing ovation that lasted several minutes.
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Stacy Revere / Getty Images
Jordan’s exploits on the court made him famous, but he became truly larger than life because of his marketing prowess. He became the first athlete to control his image in terms of advertising and was a recognizable and effective pitchman for a variety of products, including Gatorade, McDonald’s and Nike. His Air Jordan shoes were so popular that Nike eventually spun off all things Jordan into a separate brand within the company, known as the Jordan Brand, which uses the “Jumpman” logo.
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Streeter Lecka / Getty Images
Jordan bought a minority stake in the Charlotte NBA franchise in 2006 and, as he did with the Wizards, took over basketball operations. In 2010 Jordan became majority owner of the team, the first former player to do so, and the league’s only African-American majority owner. Charlotte was 7-59 in the lockout-shortened 2011-12 season — its .106 winning percentage is the worst in league history. The team has had little success in Jordan’s reign as owner.
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Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY, USA TODAY via Imagn Content Services, LLC
Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls was the subject of a highly-anticipated documentary series that ran on ESPN, and captivated a sports-starved audience during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. The series wasn’t necessarily groundbreaking, though it did have its moments, and it put Jordan’s name back in the headlines. It also angered some of his former teammates, particularly Horace Grant, but the net effect of the whole thing was to once again make Jordan the focal point of the sports world.
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Chris Miller / The Daily News via Imagn Content Services, LLC
Jordan the NASCAR owner might seem like a strange thing to say or type, but he has long been interested in the sport, dating back to his childhood, and then his time spent as a teammate of known racing fanatic Brad Daugherty. Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin announced their partnership and intention to form a team in September, and Bubba Wallace will be their driver, which means that the only Black driver at NASCAR’s top level will be paired with a Black majority owner. Jordan made it clear that NASCAR’s commitment to racial equality in the wake of racially charged incidents involving Wallace created a situation where he felt that the timing was right for him to jump into the sport in a major way.
The Kardashian-Jenner clan, known for their lavish celebrations and larger-than-life events, once again stole the spotlight as they hosted a spectacular Easter holiday party for children. Amidst the joyous festivities of Easter Sunday, the famous family opened their doors to a magical wonderland, delighting youngsters and families alike with an unforgettable experience.
Decked out in vibrant pastel hues and adorned with whimsical decorations, the Kardashian estate was transformed into a whimsical paradise fit for the occasion. From towering Easter bunny statues to intricately designed egg displays, every corner exuded an air of enchantment, captivating the imagination of guests from the moment they arrived.
The festivities kicked off with an egg-citing Easter egg hunt, where children dashed through the sprawling gardens in search of hidden treasures. Laughter echoed through the air as little ones gleefully discovered colorful eggs tucked away in secret nooks and crannies, their faces lighting up with joy with each new find.
As the day unfolded, guests were treated to an array of entertainment and activities tailored to delight children of all ages. From face painting stations to interactive arts and crafts booths, there was no shortage of fun-filled diversions to keep the young ones entertained. The sound of lively music filled the air, courtesy of a live band serenading guests with cheerful tunes, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Of course, no Kardashian celebration would be complete without a touch of glamour and extravagance. A decadent spread of delectable treats awaited guests at the dessert buffet, featuring an assortment of sweets and delights to satisfy every craving. From intricately decorated Easter cookies to towering chocolate fountains, the culinary offerings were nothing short of extraordinary.
Throughout the event, the Kardashian-Jenner family personally interacted with guests, spreading warmth and cheer as they mingled with attendees and posed for photos. From Kim’s infectious smile to Kris’s boundless energy, their genuine enthusiasm and passion for creating magical moments were palpable, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to be in attendance.
As the sun began to set on this enchanting Easter celebration, families bid farewell to the Kardashian estate, their hearts full of joy and memories that would last a lifetime. In a world filled with uncertainty, the Kardashians once again reminded us of the importance of coming together to celebrate love, family, and the spirit of the holidays. With their generosity and kindness, they truly exemplified the true meaning of Easter – a time of renewal, hope, and endless possibility.
The Kardashian-Jenner clan, known for their lavish celebrations and larger-than-life events, once again stole the spotlight as they hosted a spectacular Easter holiday party for children. Amidst the joyous festivities of Easter Sunday, the famous family opened their doors to a magical wonderland, delighting youngsters and families alike with an unforgettable experience.
Decked out in vibrant pastel hues and adorned with whimsical decorations, the Kardashian estate was transformed into a whimsical paradise fit for the occasion. From towering Easter bunny statues to intricately designed egg displays, every corner exuded an air of enchantment, captivating the imagination of guests from the moment they arrived.
The festivities kicked off with an egg-citing Easter egg hunt, where children dashed through the sprawling gardens in search of hidden treasures. Laughter echoed through the air as little ones gleefully discovered colorful eggs tucked away in secret nooks and crannies, their faces lighting up with joy with each new find.
As the day unfolded, guests were treated to an array of entertainment and activities tailored to delight children of all ages. From face painting stations to interactive arts and crafts booths, there was no shortage of fun-filled diversions to keep the young ones entertained. The sound of lively music filled the air, courtesy of a live band serenading guests with cheerful tunes, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Of course, no Kardashian celebration would be complete without a touch of glamour and extravagance. A decadent spread of delectable treats awaited guests at the dessert buffet, featuring an assortment of sweets and delights to satisfy every craving. From intricately decorated Easter cookies to towering chocolate fountains, the culinary offerings were nothing short of extraordinary.
Throughout the event, the Kardashian-Jenner family personally interacted with guests, spreading warmth and cheer as they mingled with attendees and posed for photos. From Kim’s infectious smile to Kris’s boundless energy, their genuine enthusiasm and passion for creating magical moments were palpable, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to be in attendance.
As the sun began to set on this enchanting Easter celebration, families bid farewell to the Kardashian estate, their hearts full of joy and memories that would last a lifetime. In a world filled with uncertainty, the Kardashians once again reminded us of the importance of coming together to celebrate love, family, and the spirit of the holidays. With their generosity and kindness, they truly exemplified the true meaning of Easter – a time of renewal, hope, and endless possibility.