Michael Jordan explained in 1996 how he wanted to be remembered after his career: "I was always approachable and never isolated from the normal people" originally appeared on Basketball Network .
A global sports icon, Michael Jordan , remains the benchmark when it comes to measuring greatness in the NBA. Widely regarded as a once-in-a-lifetime attraction, His Airness captured the imagination of millions with his basketball brilliance and a competitive zeal unlike anyone.
Among the most popular faces on earth at one point, Air Jordan exuded an aura that left even some of his opponents starstruck. Recalling seeing MJ for the first time, former MVP and Hall of Famer Allen Iverson had the following to say in one of his past interviews.
"The goddamn guy was glowing or something, man," stated A.I., who admired Mike way before he ever entered the NBA.
Even a seven-foot physical specimen like Shaquille O'Neal was in awe of His Airness, describing the enlightening moment, stating, "I don't know what God looks like; it's like seeing God," revealed Shaq with full admiration.
Given all the fame and adulation, one would expect Jordan to limit his social interactions. However, this wasn't something the six-time champion and Finals MVP wanted. In a 1996 interview with Daisy Fuentes on MTV, the Bulls superstar addressed how he would prefer to be remembered after his NBA career.
"I just want them to remember me, I guess. I think just a fun guy who enjoyed life and made a lot of different creative ideas work, and was a part of a lot of fun things and was always approachable. Never felt like he was isolated from normal people. A lot of times, you get people who are successful isolate you and people are afraid to come up and say something too, but I love when people come up and at least say 'Hello,' or you know, or they like something that I've done," revealed Jordan about his interactions with fans.
While MJ announced his retirement in 1993 and 1998, respectively, it was in 2003 when he played his last NBA game. That said, most fans prefer to forget his Washington chapter, given his wizardry on the hardwood had begun fading, courtesy of his age.
Officially hanging up his boots in 2003, Jordan was seen spending most of his time on golf courses and with his family and expanding his buisness portfolio. Given his earnings, endorsements, and lifetime deal with Nike, the 6'6" guard made some big investments, which included becoming the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets . He eventually sold the franchise in 2023 at a reported price of $3 billion.
Jordan also co-founded the NASCAR team 23XI Racing. Entering the alcohol business with Cincoro Tequila, the fourteen-time All-Star also invested in the sports betting industry with DraftKings and Sportradar.
Although Jordan talked about being approachable and around people in his old interviews, it never seemed to be the case in reality, especially after his playing career. Unlike many of his peers, MJ has had rare public appearances since retiring from the NBA.
MJ's zero presence on social media has helped him keep the mystery around him, maintaining the evergreen aura. Nevertheless, the superstar is all set to come on board as a special contributor with NBC, starting the 2025-26 season. A great opportunity for the current generation to gain insights from someone many consider the GOAT.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
