Michael Jordan's Unexpected Exit from Washington Wizards
Michael Jordan announced his retirement from the NBA for the second time in 1999. He did not leave basketball behind completely. Jordan took on a fresh challenge by acquiring a minority stake in the Washington Wizards. He later became the President of the franchise.
The team hoped that Michael Jordan's legendary status would help build a stronger organization. Jordan himself wanted to contribute. Fans, however, could not predict his dramatic comeback to the league.
A Surprising Return to the Court
In early 2000, Michael Jordan declared his decision to re-enter the NBA for a third time. He joined the Washington Wizards as a player. On the court, Jordan remained a superstar who attracted crowds everywhere. Off the court, his story took a different turn.
Running a team demands constant attention and future planning. Jordan often busied himself with personal business ventures. He was not always fully engaged in the day-to-day operations of the Wizards. Some insiders felt he focused too much on being Michael Jordan the player and brand, rather than acting as the team's head.
Internal Tensions Lead to a Sudden Departure
Reports indicated rising tension between Michael Jordan and the team's management. Many expected Jordan to dedicate himself to managing the Wizards after his playing career ended. Instead, less than a month after his final game with the team, the Wizards decided to let him go from his executive role.
An insider spoke about the fallout between Michael Jordan and Abe Pollin, the then-owner of the Washington Wizards. The insider said, "Everyone expected that when MJ's playing tenure was over, he was going to move back into the front office. And within a day or two of Michael's final game, you really begin to hear like Abe's gonna let him go. You could sense that Abe felt disrespected. Michael at times treated the organization like it didn't exist before him."
The decision shocked Jordan and others in the organization. Jordan felt it was unfair, given his contributions to the team's success. He later expressed, "I didn't have to do it, but I wanted to help an organization get back on its feet. And the thanks I got was that my services were no longer needed. I felt used."
Jordan's Billion-Dollar Triumph with Charlotte Hornets
Michael Jordan did not give up after this setback. He shifted his focus and bought a minority stake in the Charlotte Bobcats in 2006. The team is now known as the Charlotte Hornets. After managing the team for five years, Jordan assumed majority ownership.
This time, Jordan ensured he dedicated himself fully to running the organization. He avoided distractions and focused on hassle-free management. Under his leadership, the Charlotte Hornets made the playoffs three times. They never advanced past the first round, however.
A Historic Business Achievement
Despite the team's on-court performance, Jordan sold the Hornets in 2023 for $3 billion. This sale reflected his success not only as a player but also as a business tycoon. Jordan's journey after retiring from the NBA showed immense achievement.
He became the first billionaire in NBA history in 2014. His story demonstrates resilience and strategic vision in the world of sports ownership.
