Anyone who watched Michael Jordan play basketball knows he's the greatest player to ever step between the lines. The latest generations have insisted that LeBron James has challenged that status and argue that he may have taken the top spot. Aside from the flawless championship record, the unparalleled basketball resume, and the utter dominance that Jordan displayed during his playing days, so many other factors push him to claim the greatest of all time. He was the first major athlete to create and globalize his own brand. He inspired an entire world of athletes and people with his style of play and fashion and is considered a cultural icon. In addition to being the most elite basketball player and influential athlete of all time, on Tuesday night, he released information that he had included a unique clause in his contract with the Chicago Bulls, which cements his legacy as the best ever to do it.
"For The Love Of The Game"
Jordan said it best himself, via NBA on NBC, "I love the game so much that I would never let someone take the opportunity for me to play the game away from me." In most cases, this would mean that he's a gym rat. First one to show up, last one to leave, extra workouts with the team where he could find the time and space. For Jordan, this had a whole new meaning. His clause allowed him to play any time, any place, with anyone. Street ball, pickup games, nobody could contain His Airness from lacing them up. This is the type of throwback, genuinely authentic desire to play the game that is unheard of in today's era. Not only is it slightly irresponsible, but it would create havoc if applied currently. For him, nothing mattered besides being able to hoop.
"I love the game so much, that I would never let someone take the opportunity for me to play the game away from me."
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) December 3, 2025
Michael Jordan sits down with Mike Tirico for the latest installment of MJ: Insights To Excellence. pic.twitter.com/EZHE5tyNmt
They're Not Built Like MJ Anymore
Michael Jordan was one of a kind. His obsession with the game lifted him above the rest. His obsession, combined with freakish athleticism, unmatched competitiveness, and the relentless drive to be great, boosted him to his reign at the top of all basketball lists. When asked what younger players should focus on, Jordan emphasized the mental aspect. The need for passion, above all else, was of paramount importance. He continued to share how current players are too wrapped up in brand deals, social media, and the fame associated with playing, rather than the sole, somewhat addictive need to improve as a player and win championships.
Dominique Wilkins explains why it’s so easy for him to give Jordan his props:
— JordanMuse (@JordanMuse_) March 24, 2025
“If you ain’t ever faced him, you don’t understand…He was a phenomenon…his eyes was blood-shot red, every game, looked like he was possessed..” pic.twitter.com/DOGzjfitRC
Every Tuesday night, tune in for "MJ: Insights To Excellence" for more rare tidbits and unique stories from the mind of the game's best.
