Michael Jordan is more than just a basketball super-star or a sports icon, his play on the court as well as his contributions off of it have inspired millions around the world. Throughout his life, Jordan had to overcome many adverse situations, but like anyone who has come to know success, it was the failures that ultimately gave way to the greatest achievements. In honor of his 50th birthday on February 17th, here is a collection of achievements and a few quotes from the great Michael Jordan.
Achievements
- 6 Time NBA Champion
- 6 Time NBA Finals MVP
- 5 Time Regular Season MVP
- 10 Scoring Titles
- 14 Time All Star
- 10 Time All-NBA First Team
- Defensive Player of the Year (1988)
- Rookie of the Year (1985)
Inspiration Off the Court
While Michael’s play on the court was second to none, his efforts off the court are just as notable, and often overshadowed. Jordan founded the James Jordan Boys and Girls Club and Family Life Center. He raised 7 million dollars for the development of the club, personally donating 2 million. The foundation serves those in the Chicago area especially those in the most economically challenged neighborhoods. Boys and girls use the center for after-school activities to continue to safely learn and grow and to provide hope and opportunity for a better future.
Additionally, Jordan is involved in the Make-A-Wish Foundation where he was named “Chief Wish Ambassador” in 2009 for his countless donations and time spent bettering the lives of ill children.
Nowadays, Jordan’s sport of choice is golf. He uses his passion for golf to raise money for various charities. He hosts his annual Michael Jordan Golf Classic in N.C, and over the past 15 years has raised $2 million for Ronald McDonald Houses throughout the state. More recently, MJ hosts the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational where athletes from all sports come together to playfully compete, but more importantly to raise money for the Atlantis HIV/AIDS initiative as well as Jordan’s other charities.
Michael Jordan Quotes
“I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
“If you’re trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I’ve had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”
“My attitude is that if you push me towards something that you think is a weakness, then I will turn that perceived weakness into a strength.”
“I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.”
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.”
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.”
“I’m not out there sweating for three hours every day just to find out what it feels like to sweat. “
“I never looked at the consequences of missing a big shot… when you think about the consequences you always think of a negative result.”
“Be true to the game, because the game will be true to you. If you try to shortcut the game, then the game will shortcut you. If you put forth the effort, good things will be bestowed upon you. That’s truly about the game, and in some ways that’s about life too.”
Featured photo by Muggeridge Photography