Guests: Episodes with Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan, born on February 17, 1963, is an iconic American former basketball player and businessman, commonly dubbed the greatest basketball player of all time. A six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls, Jordan changed the global perception of basketball in the ’80s and ’90s, making it a global sport. Before his NBA fame, he played college basketball for North Carolina, winning a national championship as a freshman.

Known for his scoring abilities and defensive prowess, Jordan earned multiple MVP awards and scoring titles. His first three championships came consecutively from 1991-1993. After a brief retirement to pursue Minor League Baseball, he returned to the NBA to win three more titles from 1996-1998. His career also includes two short-lived periods with the Washington Wizards. Jordan holds records for the highest career regular-season and playoff scoring averages. In addition to his NBA accolades, he also represented the U.S. in international competitions, earning four gold medals and maintaining an undefeated record.

Off the court, Jordan became a marketing phenomenon, heavily endorsing products and giving rise to the popularity of Nike’s Air Jordan sneakers. His ventures extended into acting with the film “Space Jam” and as the subject of the Emmy-winning documentary series “The Last Dance”. In 2016, he became the first NBA player to reach billionaire status. His net worth as of 2023 stands at an estimated $2 billion.

Jordan was also an NBA executive, experiencing varying levels of success. In the business arena, he has diversified interests, including automotive dealerships and restaurants. Forbes ranked him among the world’s most powerful celebrities and the highest-earning retired athlete. He has owned and subsequently sold a majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets and is a part-owner of the Miami Marlins.

Jordan’s influence extends to philanthropy as well, hosting charity golf tournaments and pledging millions to various causes. With his inimitable style, both on and off the court, Michael Jordan is not just a sports legend, but a global cultural icon.