The greatest basketball player the world has ever seen turns 49 today.
Michael Jordan completely re-invented the game of basketball with his clutch play and his overall greatness.
His toughness, tenacity, and winning legacy will never be matched.
All this “closer” or “who will take the last shot” talk we hear about in the NBA today comes from how GREAT Jordan was in crushing the opposing team’s hopes and chances of winning.
Why is he the greatest ever?
How about these numbers:
6-Time NBA Champion (6-time Finals MVP)
5-Time Regular Season MVP
6-Time NBA Scoring Champion
10-Time NBA First Team
Defensive Player of the Year in 1988, 9-time NBA All-Defensive 1st team.
14-Time All-Star
Olympic Gold Medalist in 1984 and 1992
SOLID?
Not only was Jordan a great scorer, but he was an even better defender, he played the game on both ends of the court at an amazing level.
Along with his numbers, Jordan had amazing moments that will never be forgotten by basketball fans that truly appreciate the game.
Let’s not forget his impact off the court also.
Jordan became the first athlete to reach super-stardom in terms of endorsements and marketing.
All these players you see getting shoe-deals or endorsement deals, that all stems from Jordan’s success in marketing. He completely changed the way athletes are viewed and judged in the media.
I can go on forever about Jordan’s on or off the court impact, I choose to leave you with two videos of my favorite moments throughout his career.