Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, (1963- ). US basketball player, usually considered the greatest in the history of his sport. A Black, Jordan was born in Brooklyn, New York. Although he preferred baseball as a child, his height when full grown (1.98 m; 6ft 6in) helped him to excel at basketball during his college years. In 1984 he won a gold medal as part of the US Olympic team. He was subsequently recruited by the Chicago Bulls and remained with the team for the rest of his career. During his nine professional seasons he set numerous scoring records and became known as ‘Air Jordan’ for his remarkable leaping ability. In 1992 and 1993 he earned more money than any other US athlete, mainly through endorsements. He retired at the age of 30, while still at the peak of his abilities.
