History of Michael Jordan in Timeline
Michael Jordan, also known as MJ, is an American businessman and former professional basketball player widely considered one of the greatest of all time. He played 15 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Chicago Bulls, winning six NBA championships. Jordan's exceptional athletic abilities, competitive spirit, and charismatic personality made him a global icon, instrumental in popularizing basketball and the NBA worldwide during the 1980s and 1990s. He is also a successful businessman.
February 17, 1963: Michael Jordan's Birth
On February 17, 1963, Michael Jeffrey Jordan, later known as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, was born. Also known by his initials MJ, he would go on to become a global cultural icon.
1968: Family Moved to Wilmington, North Carolina
In 1968, the Jordan family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina.
1969: Willis Reed Achieves MVP Sweep
In the 1969-70 season, Willis Reed achieved only the second sweep of the MVP awards in the All-Star Game, regular season, and NBA Finals
1975: NBA Game Reaches Record Nielsen Rating
In 1975, An NBA regular season game reached the highest Nielsen rating
1976: ABA-NBA Merger
Since 1976, the year of the ABA–NBA merger, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen are the only two players to win six NBA Finals playing for one team.
1980: Bulls Qualify for Postseason
In 1985, Michael Jordan helped the Chicago Bulls qualify for the postseason for the first time since the 1980-81 season.
1981: Accepted Scholarship to UNC
In 1981, Michael Jordan accepted a basketball scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he majored in cultural geography.
1981: Selected for McDonald's All-American Game
In 1981, as a senior in high school, Michael Jordan was selected for the McDonald's All-American Game, where he scored 30 points.
1982: National Championship with North Carolina
In 1982, Michael Jordan was a freshman member of the North Carolina Tar Heels national championship team.
1982: Game-Winning Shot in NCAA Championship
In 1982, as a freshman, Michael Jordan made the game-winning jump shot in the NCAA Championship game against Georgetown, a major turning point in his career.
1983: Pan American Games Debut
In 1983, Michael Jordan debuted as a college player for the U.S. national basketball team at the Pan American Games in Caracas, Venezuela, leading the team in scoring and winning a gold medal.
1983: NCAA All-American First Team
In 1983, Michael Jordan was selected by consensus to the NCAA All-American First Team for his sophomore season.
November 1984: Comparisons to Julius Erving
By November 1984, Michael Jordan's talent was clear in his first NBA season; he was being compared to Julius Erving.
1984: Jordan Enters the NBA
In 1984, Michael Jordan began his 15-season career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) with the Chicago Bulls.
1984: Joins the Chicago Bulls
In 1984, Michael Jordan joined the Chicago Bulls as the third overall draft pick and quickly rose to stardom.
1984: Olympic Gold Medal
In 1984, Michael Jordan won a gold medal at the Summer Olympics, leading the U.S. team in scoring with 17.1 ppg.
1984: Wins Naismith and Wooden Awards, Enters NBA Draft
In 1984, Michael Jordan won the Naismith and Wooden College Player of the Year awards and then left North Carolina to enter the NBA draft.
1984: Nike Creates Air Jordan Signature Shoe
In 1984, Nike created a signature shoe for Michael Jordan called the Air Jordan. This line later became its own division named the "Jordan Brand."
1984: Introduction of Air Jordan Sneakers
In 1984, Nike introduced Air Jordan sneakers, which were endorsed by Michael Jordan and became highly successful.
1985: Rookie Season Success
During his rookie 1984-85 season, Michael Jordan averaged 28.2 ppg and helped the Bulls qualify for the postseason, becoming a fan favorite and appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
April 20, 1986: 63 Points Against Celtics
On April 20, 1986, Michael Jordan established the single-game playoff record of 63 points against the Boston Celtics, leading Larry Bird to describe him as "God disguised as Michael Jordan".
1986: Start of Durability Streak
From 1986-87 season to 2001-02 season, Michael Jordan did not miss four or more games while active for a full season.
1986: Completes Degree at North Carolina
In 1986, Michael Jordan returned to North Carolina to complete his degree, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in geography.
1986: Prolific Scoring Season
In the 1986-87 season, Michael Jordan had one of the most prolific scoring seasons in NBA history, becoming the only player other than Wilt Chamberlain to score 3,000 points in a season, and he also recorded 200 steals and 100 blocked shots.
1987: Slam Dunk Contest Championship
In 1987, Michael Jordan won his first Slam Dunk Contest championship. This athletic achievement influenced a generation of young players.
1987: First League MVP Award
In the 1987-88 season, Michael Jordan led the league in scoring, averaging 35.0 ppg, and won his first league MVP Award and was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year.
1988: Led League in Scoring
During the 1988-89 season, Michael Jordan again led the league in scoring, averaging 32.5 ppg, and also averaged 8.0 rpg and 8.0 apg.
1988: NBA Defensive Player of the Year
In 1988, Michael Jordan was awarded the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award.
1988: Back-to-Back Slam Dunk Contest Championship
In 1988, Michael Jordan won his second consecutive Slam Dunk Contest championship. This further solidified his influence on a generation of young basketball players.
1988: Defensive Player and MVP Awards
In 1988, Michael Jordan won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year and the Most Valuable Player awards, becoming the first NBA player to win both awards in a season.
1988: Start of Consecutive 50% Shooting Seasons
Starting in 1988, Michael Jordan had five consecutive seasons with at least 50% shooting.
1989: Improved Three-Point Shooting
During the 1989-90 season, Michael Jordan demonstrated improved three-point shooting, making 37% of his attempts.
1989: Bulls Team on the Rise
The Chicago Bulls entered the 1989-90 season as a team on the rise, with Jordan and young players under coach Phil Jackson.
March 28, 1990: Career-High 69 Points
On March 28, 1990, Michael Jordan scored a career-high 69 points in a 117-113 road win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
1990: Regular Season Success and Playoff Run
In 1990, Michael Jordan won his second MVP award, averaging 31.5 points per game with a shooting percentage of 53.9%. The Bulls achieved first place in their division, winning 61 games, a franchise record. The team, including All-Star Scottie Pippen, defeated the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers in the playoffs before sweeping the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals.
1990: Acquisition of Nissan Dealership
In 1990, Michael Jordan's automotive group acquired a Nissan dealership in Durham, North Carolina.
1990: Bulls Dominate Regular Season
In 1990, The Chicago Bulls were dominating the regular season. Michael Jordan was performing extremely well and the franchise was headed for greatness.
1991: Alleged Affair with Karla Knafel
In 1991, Karla Knafel claimed Michael Jordan promised her $5 million for remaining silent and agreeing not to file a paternity suit after Knafel learned she was pregnant; a DNA test showed that Jordan was not the father of the child.
1991: Bulls Establish New Record and Jordan Wins MVP
In 1991, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls established a 67–15 record, surpassing their franchise record from the 1990–91 season. Jordan secured his second consecutive MVP award with averages of 30.1 points per game.
1991: First NBA Title
In 1991, Michael Jordan secured his first NBA title with the Chicago Bulls.
1991: Long Relationship with Gatorade
Michael Jordan has had a long relationship with Gatorade, appearing in over 20 commercials for the company since 1991, including the "Be Like Mike" commercials.
1992: Improved Three-Point Shooting
During the 1992-93 season, Michael Jordan shot 35% from the three-point line.
1992: Continued High Performance
In 1992, Michael Jordan continued to perform at a high level.
1992: Fifth Consecutive 50% Shooting Season
In 1992, Michael Jordan finished his fifth consecutive season with at least 50% shooting.
1992: Nike commercial with Bugs Bunny during Super Bowl XXVI and Michael Jackson's "Jam" Music Video
In 1992, Michael Jordan was featured in a Nike commercial with Bugs Bunny during Super Bowl XXVI. He also made an appearance in the music video for Michael Jackson's "Jam".
1992: Second NBA Title and Olympics
In 1992, Michael Jordan won his second NBA title and also played for the United States national team at the Tournament of the Americas and Summer Olympics, winning gold medals.
1992: Eastern Conference Semifinals Game 7
In 1992, The New York Knicks and the Chicago Bulls played in a game 7 during the Eastern Conference Semifinals
1992: Olympic Gold Medal
Michael Jordan won an Olympic gold medal with the 1992 U.S. men's basketball team, representing the last third of the basketball Triple Crown.
July 23, 1993: Murder of James R. Jordan Sr.
On July 23, 1993, James R. Jordan Sr., Michael Jordan's father, was murdered at a highway rest area in Lumberton, North Carolina. Two teenagers, Daniel Green and Larry Martin Demery, carjacked his Lexus and dumped his body in a South Carolina swamp. The body was discovered on August 3. Green and Demery were sentenced to life imprisonment.
October 6, 1993: Jordan Announces Retirement
On October 6, 1993, Michael Jordan announced his retirement from basketball, citing a loss of desire to play. He later mentioned that the murder of his father, James R. Jordan Sr., three months prior influenced his decision.
1993: Gambling Allegations Surface
During the 1993 NBA playoffs, Michael Jordan was observed gambling in Atlantic City before Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. This event compounded existing concerns about his gambling habits, including a previous admission of covering $57,000 in gambling losses. Richard Esquinas also released a book in 1993 claiming that he had won $1.25 million from Jordan in golf bets.
1993: Third NBA Title and First Retirement
In 1993, Michael Jordan won his third consecutive NBA title with the Chicago Bulls, completing a three-peat, and then abruptly retired to play Minor League Baseball.
1993: The Bulls Performance
In 1993, The Chicago Bulls went 55–27 without Jordan.
1993: Third NBA Championship and Finals MVP for Jordan
In 1993, despite losing the regular season MVP award to Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to their third NBA championship, defeating Barkley and the Phoenix Suns. Jordan achieved a Finals-record average of 41.0 points per game and won his third consecutive Finals MVP award, becoming the first in NBA history to do so. This marked the end of a seven-year period where Jordan secured seven scoring titles and three championships.
February 7, 1994: Jordan Signs with Chicago White Sox
On February 7, 1994, Michael Jordan signed a Minor League Baseball contract with the Chicago White Sox. He reported to spring training in Sarasota, Florida, and was assigned to the team's minor league system on March 31. This decision was driven by his late father's dream of Jordan becoming a Major League Baseball player. The White Sox were owned by Jerry Reinsdorf, who continued to honor Jordan's basketball contract.
November 1, 1994: Jordan's Number Retired by the Bulls
On November 1, 1994, Michael Jordan's No. 23 was retired by the Chicago Bulls during a ceremony that included the unveiling of a permanent sculpture called The Spirit outside the new United Center.
1994: Three-Point Line Moved Inwards
From 1994 to 1997, Michael Jordan shot higher percentages from the three-point line as the three-point line was temporarily moved inwards.
1994: The Bulls Performance
In 1994, The Chicago Bulls lost to the New York Knicks in the second round of the playoffs.
1994: First Retirement Return
Michael Jordan played 17 games after returning from his first retirement during the 1994-95 season.
March 1995: Return to the Bulls
In March 1995, Michael Jordan returned to the Chicago Bulls after a brief stint in Minor League Baseball.
March 1995: Jordan Returns to the Court
In March 1995, Michael Jordan returned to the court with the Chicago Bulls to face the Indiana Pacers, scoring 19 points. He wore No. 45, his baseball number, instead of his original No. 23, which the Bulls had retired. This game achieved the highest Nielsen rating for a regular season NBA game since 1975.
March 18, 1995: Jordan Announces NBA Comeback
On March 18, 1995, Michael Jordan announced his return to the NBA with a two-word press release: "I'm back."
March 28, 1995: Jordan Scores 55 Points Against Knicks
On March 28, 1995, Michael Jordan scored 55 points against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, marking a significant performance during his comeback.
1995: Jordan Trains Aggressively and Bulls Add Rodman
In 1995, Michael Jordan trained intensely after the playoff defeat, and the Chicago Bulls acquired Dennis Rodman. The Bulls started the 1995–96 season with a 41–3 record.
1995: Lincoln-Mercury Dealership
In 1995, Michael Jordan's company formerly had a Lincoln-Mercury dealership.
1995: Stern Denies Suspension Rumors
In 1995, NBA commissioner David Stern denied that Michael Jordan's 1993 retirement was a secret suspension due to gambling allegations.
September 1996: Named Greatest Athlete of the Past 50 Years by Sport
In September 1996, Michael Jordan was named the greatest athlete of the past 50 years in the 50th-anniversary issue of Sport publication.
1996: Jordan selected Class of 1996 member David Thompson to present him for Hall of Fame induction.
After Jordan received word of his acceptance into the Hall of Fame, he selected Class of 1996 member David Thompson to present him.
1996: Fourth NBA Title
In 1996, Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to their fourth NBA championship.
1996: Release of Space Jam
In 1996, Michael Jordan played himself in the comedy film Space Jam. The film was a box office success and earned more than $1 billion through merchandise sales.
1996: Space Jam Film Release
In 1996, Michael Jordan starred in the live-action/animated film Space Jam alongside Bugs Bunny. The movie was set during Jordan's first retirement from basketball.
1996: 50 Greatest Players
In 1996, Michael Jordan was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
1996: NBA 50th Anniversary Team
In 1996, Michael Jordan was named to the NBA 50th Anniversary Team.
1996: Bulls Nearly Achieve Second 70-Win Season
In the 1996–97 season, the Bulls were at a 69–11 record but lost their final two games to finish the year 69–13, missing out on a second consecutive 70-win season.
1997: Three-Point Line Moved Inwards
From 1994 to 1997, Michael Jordan shot higher percentages from the three-point line as the three-point line was temporarily moved inwards.
1997: Fifth Regular Season MVP Award and Finals Rematch
In 1997, Michael Jordan led the league with 28.7 points per game and secured his fifth regular season MVP award, along with All-NBA First Team, First Defensive Team, and All-Star Game MVP honors. The Bulls won the Eastern Conference Championship for a third straight season, and they moved on for a Finals rematch with the Utah Jazz after surviving a seven-game series with the Indiana Pacers.
1997: "The Flu Game" and Fifth Finals MVP
In 1997, Michael Jordan played Game 5 against the Utah Jazz despite having a stomach virus. He scored 38 points, including the game-winning three-pointer, leading the Bulls to a 90–88 victory. Jordan received his fifth Finals MVP award, and although he posted the first triple-double in All-Star Game history, the MVP award went to Glen Rice.
1997: Fifth NBA Title
In 1997, Michael Jordan won his fifth NBA title with the Chicago Bulls.
1997: NBA Entertainment crew shot over the course of the 1997–98 NBA season
In 1997, an NBA Entertainment crew shot about 500 hours of film of Jordan's and his teammates' off-court activities.
June 14, 1998: Jordan's Clutch Plays in Game 6
On June 14, 1998, in Game 6 against the Utah Jazz, Michael Jordan executed a series of plays considered one of the greatest clutch performances in NBA Finals history. With the Bulls trailing 86–83, Jordan scored a basket to cut Utah's lead to 86–85. He then stole the ball from Karl Malone and dribbled down the court.
1998: Finals-Winning Shot
By 1998, the season of his Finals-winning shot against the Jazz, Michael Jordan was well known throughout the league as a clutch performer, always asking for the ball at crunch time.
1998: Jordan's remarks to Washington Wizards during the labor dispute.
During the labor dispute in 1998, Jordan told Washington Wizards then-owner Abe Pollin: "If you can't make a profit, you should sell your team."
1998: Sixth NBA Title
In 1998, Michael Jordan secured his sixth NBA title with the Chicago Bulls, completing another three-peat.
1998: 1998 NBA playoffs
In 1998, the Chicago Bulls won the NBA playoffs, which later became the subject of the IMAX documentary 'Michael Jordan to the Max'.
1998: Sixth NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 1998, with 5.2 seconds left in Game 6, Michael Jordan made the climactic shot of his Bulls career, a top-key jumper over Bryon Russell, to give Chicago an 87–86 lead. The Bulls won their sixth NBA championship, achieving their second three-peat of the decade. Jordan was voted Finals MVP for a record sixth time, averaging 33.5 points per game. The 1998 Finals holds the highest television rating of any Finals series, and Game 6 holds the highest television rating of any game in NBA history.
1998: Playing the opening game of the 1998 NBA Finals
In September 2022, Jordan's jersey in which he played the opening game of the 1998 NBA Finals was sold for $10.1 million, making it the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia in history.
1998: Autobiography Reveals Early Retirement Thoughts
In his 1998 autobiography, For the Love of the Game, Michael Jordan wrote that he was preparing for retirement as early as the summer of 1992.
January 13, 1999: Second Retirement
On January 13, 1999, Michael Jordan retired for the second time due to Phil Jackson's contract expiring, the looming departures of Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, and an owner-induced lockout of NBA players.
January 1999: Second Retirement
In January 1999, Michael Jordan retired for the second time from professional basketball.
January 1999: Potential NBA Return
In January 1999, despite claiming he was "99.9% certain" he would never play another NBA game, Michael Jordan expressed interest in making another comeback.
December 1999: Ranked Greatest North American Athlete of the 20th Century
In December 1999, Michael Jordan was ranked the greatest North American athlete of the 20th century in an ESPN survey of journalists, athletes, and sports figures. He was also voted the greatest basketball player of the 20th century by the Associated Press and placed second to Babe Ruth in the AP's list of 20th-century athletes.
1999: Greatest North American Athlete of the 20th Century
In 1999, ESPN named Michael Jordan the greatest North American athlete of the 20th century.
January 19, 2000: Return to NBA as Part Owner and President
On January 19, 2000, Michael Jordan returned to the NBA as part owner and president of basketball operations for the Washington Wizards, controlling all aspects of the team's basketball operations and personnel matters.
2000: Michael Jordan to the Max IMAX Documentary
In 2000, Michael Jordan was the subject of an IMAX documentary about his career with the Chicago Bulls, especially the 1998 NBA playoffs, titled Michael Jordan to the Max.
September 25, 2001: Return to the NBA
On September 25, 2001, Michael Jordan announced his return to the NBA to play for the Washington Wizards, donating his salary to relief efforts for the victims of the September 11 attacks.
2001: "Love of the Game Clause"
Confirmed during the start of his career and possibly later on, Michael Jordan had a special "Love of the Game Clause" written into his contract, allowing him to play basketball against anyone at any time, anywhere.
2001: Criticism of Kwame Brown
During his stint with the Wizards, Michael Jordan openly criticized his teammates to the media, especially Kwame Brown, the number-one draft pick in the 2001 NBA draft, for their lack of focus and intensity.
2001: Comparison to Shaquille O'Neal
During the 2001 NBA Finals, Phil Jackson compared Michael Jordan's dominance to Shaquille O'Neal, saying that Jordan would get fouled on every play but still had to play through it and rise to the occasion.
2001: Annual Golf Tournament
From 2001 to 2014, Michael Jordan hosted an annual golf tournament, the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational, to raise money for various charities.
2001: Return to the NBA with the Wizards
In 2001, Michael Jordan returned to the NBA for two more seasons as a member of the Washington Wizards.
2001: Kwame Brown Draft Pick
In 2001, as part owner and president of the Washington Wizards, Michael Jordan used the first pick in the NBA draft to select high school student Kwame Brown, who did not meet expectations and was later traded after four seasons.
January 4, 2002: First Filing for Divorce from Juanita Vanoy
On January 4, 2002, Michael and Juanita Jordan filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, but they reconciled shortly thereafter.
2002: Tributes Paid
During the 2002-03 NBA season, tributes were paid to Michael Jordan throughout the NBA in recognition that it would be his final season.
2002: Named to ACC 50th Anniversary Team
In 2002, Michael Jordan was named to the ACC 50th Anniversary men's basketball team, honoring the 50 greatest players in ACC history.
2002: Potential Influence on Richard "Rip" Hamilton Trade
In 2002, Michael Jordan's previous tenure with the Wizards may have influenced the trade of Richard "Rip" Hamilton for Jerry Stackhouse, although Jordan was not technically Director of Basketball Operations at the time.
February 21, 2003: 43 Points at 40
On February 21, 2003, Michael Jordan became the first 40-year-old player to score 43 points in an NBA game.
April 16, 2003: Final NBA Game
On April 16, 2003, Michael Jordan played his final NBA game in Philadelphia. He scored his final points from the free throw line and received a three-minute standing ovation when he was subbed out with one second left in the game.
May 7, 2003: Fired from Wizards Front Office Role
On May 7, 2003, Abe Pollin, the owner of the Washington Wizards, fired Michael Jordan from his position as Director of Basketball Operations, leading Jordan to feel betrayed.
2003: Final NBA Season
In 2003, Michael Jordan concluded his professional basketball career after playing 15 seasons in the NBA.
2004: Ownership of Michael Jordan Motorsports Begins
Since 2004, Michael Jordan has owned Michael Jordan Motorsports, a professional motorcycle road racing team.
2005: Jordan Discusses Gambling on 60 Minutes
In 2005, Michael Jordan discussed his gambling habits in an interview with Ed Bradley on 60 Minutes, acknowledging that he made reckless decisions.
June 15, 2006: Buys Minority Stake in Charlotte Bobcats
On June 15, 2006, Michael Jordan bought a minority stake in the Charlotte Bobcats (later known as the Hornets), becoming the team's second-largest shareholder and taking control of basketball operations.
July 21, 2006: Judge Rules Jordan Does Not Owe Karla Knafel
On July 21, 2006, a judge ruled that Michael Jordan did not owe Karla Knafel $5 million in a breach of contract claim related to their alleged relationship. Knafel claimed Jordan promised her money to remain silent about their relationship and not file a paternity suit.
December 29, 2006: Final Divorce from Juanita Vanoy
On December 29, 2006, Michael and Juanita Jordan were granted a final decree of dissolution of marriage. Juanita received a $168 million settlement, the largest celebrity divorce settlement at the time.
2006: Part-Owner of the Charlotte Bobcats
In 2006, Michael Jordan became part-owner and head of basketball operations for the Charlotte Hornets (then named the Bobcats).
2006: Stern Again Denies Suspension Rumors
In 2006, NBA commissioner David Stern reiterated that Michael Jordan's 1993 retirement was not a secret suspension due to gambling allegations.
2008: Endorsement Income Exceeds $40 Million
As of 2008, Michael Jordan's yearly income from endorsements was estimated to be over $40 million, in addition to the impact on ticket sales and player salary.
2008: Chief Wish Ambassador
In 2008, Michael Jordan was named the Chief Wish Ambassador for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
June 2009: $55 Million Earned Between June 2009 and June 2010
In June 2009 through June 2010, Michael Jordan earned $55 million and was ranked by Forbes as the 20th-most-powerful celebrity in the world.
June 2009: Closure of Lincoln-Mercury Dealership
In June 2009, Michael Jordan's Lincoln-Mercury dealership closed.
August 2009: Michael Jordan Exhibit Opens at Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In August 2009, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts, opened a Michael Jordan exhibit featuring items from his college and NBA careers, as well as memorabilia from the 1992 "Dream Team" and a baseball glove representing his time in Minor League Baseball.
September 2009: Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In September 2009, Michael Jordan was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, with David Thompson presenting him. His emotional speech spawned the "Crying Jordan" Internet meme.
2009: Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In 2009, Michael Jordan was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his individual career and into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame.
February 2010: Sought Majority Ownership of the Bobcats
In February 2010, it was reported that Michael Jordan was seeking majority ownership of the Charlotte Bobcats. On February 27, an agreement was reached for Jordan to buy the team from Robert L. Johnson, which was approved by the NBA on March 17, making him the first former player to become the majority owner of an NBA team.
June 2010: Ranked 20th-Most-Powerful Celebrity by Forbes
In June 2010, Michael Jordan was ranked by Forbes as the 20th-most-powerful celebrity in the world, earning $55 million between June 2009 and June 2010.
2010: Buys Controlling Interest in Charlotte Hornets
In 2010, Michael Jordan bought a controlling interest in the Charlotte Hornets.
2010: Second Hall of Fame Induction and North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame
In 2010, Michael Jordan was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of "The Dream Team" and also became a member of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.
2010: Documentary Director Refutes Suspension Theory
In 2010, Ron Shelton, the director of the documentary Jordan Rides the Bus, stated that he initially believed the NBA had suspended Michael Jordan but concluded through research that the suspension theory was "nonsense".
2011: Leads Hardline Owners During NBA Lockout
During the 2011 NBA lockout, Michael Jordan reportedly led a group of hardline owners seeking to cap the players' share of basketball-related income. This generated controversy due to his previous statements during the 1998 labor dispute.
2011: Bobcats Post Worst Record in NBA History
During the 2011–12 NBA season, shortened by a lockout, the Charlotte Bobcats posted a 7–59 record, resulting in a .106 winning percentage, the worst in NBA history. Jordan expressed his frustration with the team's performance.
2012: Mansion Listed for Sale
In 2012, Michael Jordan listed his Highland Park mansion for sale.
April 27, 2013: Marriage to Yvette Prieto
On April 27, 2013, Michael Jordan married Yvette Prieto at Bethesda-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church.
November 30, 2013: Announcement of Pregnancy
On November 30, 2013, it was announced that Michael Jordan and Yvette Prieto were expecting their first child together.
2013: Granted 200th Wish
In 2013, Michael Jordan granted his 200th wish for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
2013: Michael Jordan Motorsports Competes Last Season
Michael Jordan Motorsports, which Michael Jordan owned, competed with two Suzukis in the premier Superbike championship sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) until the end of the 2013 season.
2013: Charlotte Bobcats known as the Hornets since 2013
On June 15, 2006, Jordan bought a minority stake in the Charlotte Bobcats (known as the Hornets since 2013), becoming the team's second-largest shareholder and taking control of basketball operations.
February 11, 2014: Birth of Twin Daughters
On February 11, 2014, Yvette Prieto gave birth to twin daughters named Victoria and Ysabel.
June 2014: Named First NBA Player Billionaire
In June 2014, Michael Jordan was named the first NBA player to become a billionaire after increasing his stake in the Charlotte Hornets.
2014: Annual Golf Tournament
From 2001 to 2014, Michael Jordan hosted an annual golf tournament, the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational, to raise money for various charities.
January 20, 2015: Charlotte Business Journal's Business Person of the Year for 2014
On January 20, 2015, Michael Jordan was honored as the Charlotte Business Journal's Business Person of the Year for 2014.
2015: FIBA Hall of Fame Induction
In 2015, Michael Jordan was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame as an individual member.
2015: $110 Million Income
In 2015, Michael Jordan's income from his Jordan Brand and endorsements was an estimated $110 million, the most of any retired athlete.
2015: Warriors Break Bulls' Record
In 2015, The Golden State Warriors broke the Chicago Bulls' record for the best regular season record in NBA history.
2016: First Billionaire NBA Player
In 2016, Michael Jordan became the first billionaire player in NBA history, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
2016: Honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2016, President Barack Obama honored Michael Jordan with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
2017: Highest Career Earnings
In 2017, Forbes designated Michael Jordan as the athlete with the highest career earnings.
2017: Funding of Family Clinics
In 2017, Michael Jordan funded two Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Clinics in Charlotte, North Carolina, by giving $7 million.
2018: Closure of Steakhouse
In 2018, Michael Jordan's steakhouse in New York City's Grand Central Terminal closed.
2019: Raised More Than $5 Million for Make-A-Wish
As of 2019, Michael Jordan had raised more than $5 million for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
2019: Jordan sold a minority piece of the Hornets
During the 2019 NBA offseason, Jordan sold a minority piece of the Hornets to Gabe Plotkin and Daniel Sundheim, retaining the majority for himself, as well as the role of chairman.
2019: $1 Million to Bahamas Recovery
In 2019, Michael Jordan gave $1 million to aid the Bahamas' recovery following Hurricane Dorian.
May 2020: The Last Dance Debuts on ESPN
In May 2020, The Last Dance, a 10-part TV documentary covering the 1997-98 NBA season in great detail, debuted on ESPN.
June 5, 2020: $100 Million Donation for Racial Equality
On June 5, 2020, Michael Jordan and his brand announced a joint statement that they would be donating $100 million over the next 10 years to organizations dedicated to racial equality, social justice, and greater access to education.
August 2020: Shoes Auctioned for Record Price
In August 2020, the shoes Michael Jordan wore during the August 26, 1985, Nike exhibition game were auctioned for $615,000, setting a record for a pair of sneakers.
September 2020: Investor and Advisor for DraftKings
In September 2020, Michael Jordan became an investor and advisor for DraftKings.
September 21, 2020: Jordan and Hamlin Announce NASCAR Team
On September 21, 2020, Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin announced they would field a NASCAR Cup Series team with Bubba Wallace driving, starting in the 2021 season. The team would be named 23XI Racing.
2020: The Last Dance Documentary
In 2020, Michael Jordan was the central focus of the Emmy-winning documentary series "The Last Dance".
February 2021: Funding of Family Clinics in New Hanover County
In February 2021, Michael Jordan funded two Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Clinics in New Hanover County, North Carolina, by giving $10 million.
October 2021: Named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In October 2021, Michael Jordan was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
2021: 23XI Racing Inaugural Season
In 2021, 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, began competition in the NASCAR Cup Series with Bubba Wallace driving No. 23.
2021: NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, Michael Jordan was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
2021: Ticket Stub Sold at Auction for Record Price
In 2021, a ticket stub from Michael Jordan's NBA debut game on October 26, 1984, sold at auction for $264,000, setting a record for a collectible ticket stub.
September 2022: Jersey from 1998 NBA Finals Sells for Record $10.1 Million
In September 2022, Michael Jordan's jersey from the opening game of the 1998 NBA Finals was sold for $10.1 million, setting a record as the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia in history.
December 2022: NBA Unveils New MVP Trophy Named in Jordan's Honor
In December 2022, the NBA unveiled a new MVP trophy named in Michael Jordan's honor, replacing the original trophy named after Maurice Podoloff. This new trophy would be awarded starting with the 2022–23 season.
2022: NBA Finals Television Ratings Remain Below Jordan Era Peak
As late as 2022, the NBA Finals television ratings had not returned to the level reached during Michael Jordan's last championship-winning season, highlighting his lasting impact on the game's popularity.
2022: 23XI Racing Adds Second Car
In 2022, 23XI Racing added a second car, No. 45, initially driven by Kurt Busch, with other drivers substituting during the season.
2022: Appearance in The Captain Miniseries
In 2022, Michael Jordan appeared in the miniseries The Captain, which follows the life and career of Derek Jeter.
August 2023: Finalizes Sale of Majority Stake in Hornets
In August 2023, Michael Jordan finalized the sale of his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets to Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall for approximately $3 billion, ending his 13-year tenure as majority owner, though he retained a minority stake.
2023: 23XI Racing Fields Third Car in Daytona 500
In 2023, 23XI Racing fielded a third car, No. 67, driven by Travis Pastrana in the Daytona 500.
2023: $10 Million Donation
In 2023, Michael Jordan donated $10 million to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for his 60th birthday.
2023: Sells Majority Stake in Charlotte Hornets
In 2023, Michael Jordan sold his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets.
2024: Funding of Novant Health Clinic
In 2024, Michael Jordan funded the opening of another Novant Health Clinic, this time in Wilmington.
2024: 23XI Racing Wins NASCAR Cup Series Regular Season Championship
In 2024, Tyler Reddick won the NASCAR Cup Series regular season championship, the first for 23XI Racing.
2024: Steal Stat Scrutiny
In 2024, a study by Tom Haberstroh scrutinized Michael Jordan's 1988 season steals numbers, finding discrepancies and instances where he was credited with steals that could not have happened.
2024: The equivalent of Juanita's settlement in 2024
On December 29, 2006, Michael and Juanita Jordan were granted a final decree of dissolution of marriage. It is reported that Juanita received a $168 million settlement (equivalent to $262 million in 2024)
2025: Net Worth Estimated at $3.5 Billion
As of 2025, Michael Jordan's net worth is estimated at $3.5 billion by Forbes, making him one of the richest celebrities.
2025: 23XI Racing Acquires Third Charter
In 2025, 23XI Racing will acquire a third charter from the defunct Stewart-Haas Racing, with Riley Herbst driving the No. 35 car.
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