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MJ The GOAT

Michael Jordan - Fact Sheet

Full Name: Michael Jeffrey Jordan

Nickname(s): MJ, His Airness, Air Jordan

Date of Birth: February 17, 1963

Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York, USA

Height: 6 ft 6 in (198 cm)

Weight: 216 lbs (98 kg)

Position: Shooting Guard / Small Forward

College: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Drafted: 3rd overall pick, 1984 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls

NBA Teams: Chicago Bulls (1984–1993, 1995–1998), Washington Wizards (2001–2003)

Notable Achievements:

  • 6× NBA Champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998)
  • 5× NBA MVP (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998)
  • 14× NBA All-Star
  • 10× NBA Scoring Champion
  • 2× Olympic Gold Medalist (1984, 1992)
  • Hall of Fame Inductee (2009)

How Michael Jordan's NBA Journey Began

Early Years and College Stardom

Michael Jordan's basketball journey took off at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he played under legendary coach Dean Smith. As a freshman, Jordan hit the game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship game against Georgetown, making an early statement about his clutch abilities. This shot was a pivotal moment that catapulted him into national prominence.

The 1984 NBA Draft

After three years at UNC, Jordan declared for the NBA Draft in 1984. Despite his stellar college career, he was the third overall pick, following Hakeem Olajuwon (Houston Rockets) and Sam Bowie (Portland Trail Blazers). The Chicago Bulls selected Jordan, marking the beginning of one of the greatest careers in sports history.

Rookie Season Impact

Jordan's rookie season (1984–85) was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. His electrifying dunks, scoring prowess, and charisma instantly made him a fan favorite and set the tone for his future dominance.

Turning the Bulls into Contenders

When Jordan joined the Bulls, the franchise was struggling. However, his relentless drive, scoring ability, and leadership quickly transformed the team. While the Bulls initially faced playoff struggles, Jordan's record-breaking performances—like his 63-point game against the Boston Celtics in the 1986 playoffs—signaled his greatness.

Breakthrough and the First Three-Peat

By the early 1990s, Jordan had solidified his reputation as the league's best player. Under coach Phil Jackson and with the help of Scottie Pippen, the Bulls won their first NBA Championship in 1991. This was the start of a dynasty, as they secured three consecutive titles from 1991 to 1993.

Jordan’s journey from a highly motivated college athlete to an NBA icon is a testament to his unmatched work ethic, competitive spirit, and love for the game.

Crazy Facts About MJ

1. He Tried Baseball During His NBA Retirement
Jordan retired from basketball in 1993 to pursue a career in professional baseball. He played for the Birmingham Barons, a minor league team affiliated with the Chicago White Sox, before returning to the NBA in 1995.

2. He Wore #12 for One Game
On Valentine’s Day in 1990, his jersey (#23) was stolen before a game in Orlando. With no backup jersey available, Jordan wore a nameless #12 jersey for the game.

3. Jordan Has a Famous Fear of Water
As a child, Jordan witnessed a friend drown, leading to a lifelong fear of large bodies of water.

4. He Earned Just $93 Million as a Player
While this is a lot, most of Jordan’s wealth has come from endorsements and his ownership of the Charlotte Hornets. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at over $3 billion.

5. He Once Played a Game With the Flu (or Food Poisoning)
In the 1997 NBA Finals, Jordan delivered an iconic performance in what’s now known as the “Flu Game,” scoring 38 points despite being visibly ill.
 

Did You Know?

• He Was Cut From His High School Varsity Team
In his sophomore year, Jordan was cut from the varsity basketball team because the coach felt he was too short. This setback fueled his determination to succeed.

• Jordan’s Famous “Air Jordan” Logo Was Inspired by Ballet
The iconic logo of him leaping for a dunk is actually based on a ballet move he performed during a photoshoot.

• He Scored 40+ Points 211 Times in His Career
Jordan had an unmatched ability to score, achieving 40+ points in an incredible 211 games, including playoffs.

• His Jersey Number is Retired by a Team He Never Played For
The Miami Heat retired his #23 jersey in 2003 as a tribute to his contributions to basketball, even though he never played for the team.

• Jordan’s First Nike Deal Was Almost With Adidas
Jordan originally wanted to sign with Adidas, but they passed on him. Nike then offered him a deal, which led to the birth of the Air Jordan brand.