Barack Obama on Michael Jordan, the iconic Bulls player getting ready to go into the Ring of Honor
“His performances displayed a grace and imagination that made the Chicago Bulls the greatest show in sports.”
Few sportsmen are as well-known as the legendary Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls. It made sense, then, that His Airness would be escorted into the franchise’s first Ring of Honor ceremony by another American legend.
Former President Barack Obama, who was born and raised in Chicago, wrote a brief essay endorsing Jordan’s skill and contributions to the game during his time leading the Bulls.
From being good to becoming the all-time great
Especially after his time with the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, a squad he guided to an NCAA championship in his first season in the league, many people were already aware of Jordan’s skill. But according to Obama, not many peopleโincluding Jordan himselfโwere aware of his potential to become the greatest player of all time.
Michael Jordan was a small boy with a full head of hair and a captivating smile when he arrived in Chicago in 1984, and everyone knew he was going to be good. Ultimately, this was a player who, in a national championship game against Georgetown Hoyas as a freshman, had made the game-winning shot and proceeded to be a two-time first team All-American, an Olympic Gold Medal winner, and a national player of the year, Obama wrote.
“What was not realized at the time by many, perhaps even by Michael, was that this same young man would go on to become the greatest player the game had ever seen, a transcendent athlete who would radically alter the landscape of American culture, sports, and business,” Obama went on.
The best sporting program ever
Jordan was a cultural phenomenon who drew enormous crowds wherever he went while he was at the height of his abilities. He wasn’t just a basketball player. He was known for being the best, and his signature stunts, including as the fadeaway jumper and his incredible aerial routines, mesmerized spectators everywhere.
“There has never been a player who possessed Michael’s blend of incredible athleticism and perfect fundamentals, as well as an unwavering work ethic and unrivaled competitive fire, before or after. Obama said, “The Chicago Bulls are the best sporting event ever because of his merciless efficiency in winning, as well as his graceful and imaginative performances.