Michael Jordan

Thesis

• The success in the life and career of Michael Jordan has had an enormous effect on not only the sport of basketball, but America’s economy and society as a whole.

Michael Jordan’s influence on basketball

THE MAN THAT REINVENTED THE SPORT

• Michael Jordan was named one of the 50 greatest players of all time by the NBA.

• His combination of skill in shooting, dunking, and defense put him at a level that had never been seen before.

• Jordan’s playing style influenced thousands of children to become interested in basketball.

• According to NBA.com the majority of professional basketball players today say Michael Jordan was their biggest influence.

Michael Jordan’s Economic Influence

It is estimated that Michael Jordan’s total impact on the economy is over $10 billion.

Jordan as a Businessman

Influence on Society

As a child Jordan’s parents instilled moral values in him. He learned the value of a strong community through attending church. From this he also learned the importance of charity. Michael Jordan brought these morals through his entire life and career. During and after his time in the NBA Michael Jordan started or supported organizations including the Michael Jordan Foundation, the boys’ and girls’ clubs of America, and the Special Olympics. He has also donated money to many public schools to help give children the knowledge they need to succeed.

Influence on Society• Donations and charity were not the only ways Michael Jordan

changed society.

• Michael Jordan’s role as a hero for kids as well as his influence through endorsements has made him a world wide figure.

• Michael Jordan was a great role model for children by influencing them to become great basketball players as well as good people.

• When Jordan was cut from his high school basketball he worked even harder to succeed. This gives children hope that they can achieve whatever they want if they work hard enough.

• Unlike many athletes today Michael Jordan has never been charged with a DUI or arrested.

Works Cited• Menlo, Tyler W. "Michael Jordan." Michael Jordan. 14 May 2009

<http://sun.menloschool.org/~sportman/ethnic/individu al/jordan/index.html>.

• "Michael Jordan Biography." NBA Encyclopedia Playoff Edition. 2008. 28 Feb. 2008

<http://www.nba.com/history/players/jordan_bio.html>.

• "Michael Jordan 23." NBA. 2008. NBA Media Ventures. 29 Feb. 2008 <http://www.nba.com/playerfile/michael_jordan/bio.html>.

• Porter, David L. Michael Jordan: A Biography. New York City: Greenwood Press,

2007.

• Walters, Pat. "The Executive." Michael Jordan. 15 May 2009 <http://xroads.virginia.edu/~CLASS/AM483_97/projects/walters

/mjexec.html>.