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>.