His name is famous, his 23 jersey is highly recognizable, his high jump is driven, and basketball is his game.
Chicago remembers the number one all-star NBA player in history as Michael Jordan turns 50 on February 17, 2013.
Who is Michael Jordan?
For 13 seasons, Jordan called Chicago home as a member of the Bulls. Chicago will never forget how Jordan brought such great victory to this city.
In 1987, Michael Jordan’s rookie slam dunk in the All-Star game’s dunk contest put him as the foreseeable premier high dunk leader. The following year, Jordan won the dunk contest again, but it was his 40-points score in the All-Star game that acclaimed his MVP status. For several years that followed, he surged the Bulls forward leading the NBA in points. It was in 1991 when Jordan finally got his acclamation, winning the first Championship for the Chicago Bulls, in his sixth season.
In 1992, Jordan took the Bulls to win championship number two and in 1993, they won the NBA title again.
Three years in a row Michael Jordan took the Chicago Bulls to the NBA championship. Jordan was on top of his game but then on July 23, 1993, Jordan’s father was murdered and on October 6, 1993, Jordan announced his retirement.
His decision to retire from basketball in 1994 led to his number 23 jersey retirement. He turned his focus towards baseball. He gave his all playing for the Chicago White Sox but it didn't last long. He returned to basketball with a fierce determination. Chicago Bulls’ fans were ecstatic as Jordan announced, “I’m back” in 1995.
Another season of game wins and in 1996, Jordan proved to everyone as well as himself, this is where I belong. The Bulls set an NBA record with 72 wins of the season and won their fourth NBA Championship. They continued their exceptional lead and in 1997 they did it again.
This was history. This was the Michael Jordan era.
With the help of Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and coach Phil Jackson, the Chicago Bulls won another straight NBA Championship. In 1998 it was number six.
Over the years, Michael Jordan appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. This year to commemorate his 50th birthday he graces the cover once again, this time, his 50th cover.
In the Sports Illustrated article, “Jordan Rules: 50 reasons why we’ll never forget Michael Jordan” they honor the legendary player with a special tribute. “Jordan had the perfect ending to his career — that beautiful jumper in Utah — but he just couldn't stay away. After sitting out three seasons from 1998-2001, Jordan dusted off the sneakers at age 38 to play his first game in anything other than a Bulls uniform.”
When it comes to basketball, Michael Jordan is the iconic symbol. Jordan once said, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.”
He put Chicago on the map acclaiming six NBA championships. His legendary status includes five MVPs, two Olympic gold medals and has earned the title to be ‘like Mike’ as many young athletes aspire to be like him.
Happy 50th Birthday Michael Jordan! Chicago remembers you.
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