Michael Jordan’s New Net Worth Makes Him One Of The 400 Richest People In America

There are not too many more people from the United States who can say they have more money than Michael Jordan. We knew this already for many reasons. He possibly has the greatest NBA career of any player to ever lace them up. The Air Jordan and Jordan brands sell thousands upon thousands of shoes and other apparel year in and year out. Because of this unprecedented success, Jordan can now be considered among the wealthiest people in America. Forbes announced it and TMZ Sports shared the news, so let us see how rich the icon is.

But, before we spill the beans, what pushed him to reach this incredible feat? Well, just a few months ago, Michael Jordan was a majority stake owner of the Charlotte Hornets NBA franchise. In fact, he was in the organization for 13 years. Even though he has been heavily criticized for the Hornets’ rosters and draft picks, His Airness still managed to increase the team’s worth. He purchased them for $275 million, according to SI, and flipped it to a whopping $3 billion.

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Where Does Michael Jordan Fall On The List?

Michael Jordan
Chicago Bulls All-Star forward # 23 Michael Jordan file photos. (Photo by Tom Berg/WireImage)

After he sold the team to Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall in June, that would undoubtedly push him to crack Forbes’ top 400 list of the wealthiest Americans. His new net worth is $3 billion as well, which is good for the 379 richest person in the states. This, of course, makes him the most affluent athlete of all time and the only one to be a part of this high honor. TMZ Sports also says to reach the top 100, your net earnings need to be around $9 billion. We are sure he can eclipse that as well, given his makeup and drive.

What are your initial thoughts on Michael Jordan eclipsing a net worth of $3 billion? How much further do you think he could climb up the list of the 400 wealthiest Americans? Will anyone come close to his mark? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Michael Jordan, as well as the rest of the sports world.

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Zach LaVine Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

Zach LaVine, a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts across the globe, has made significant strides in the NBA. As of 2023, his net worth stands at an impressive $70 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. But how did he amass such wealth, and what factors contributed to his financial success?

Born on March 10, 1995, in Renton, Washington, Zach’s passion for basketball ignited after watching Michael Jordan in Space Jam. His parents, Paul and CJ LaVine, both had sports backgrounds, with Paul playing in the NFL and USFL and CJ playing softball. This athletic lineage undoubtedly played a role in shaping Zach’s future. During his high school years at Bothell High School, LaVine showcased his prowess on the basketball court, averaging 28.5 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in his senior year. His exceptional skills earned him the title of the 2013 AP Washington State Player of the Year.

Read More: Giannis Antetokounmpo Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

Collegiate Career And NBA Entry

Zach Lavine
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 12: Zach LaVine #14 of the UCLA Bruins drives to the basket past Tommie McCune #23 of the Oakland Golden Grizzlies in the first half at Pauley Pavilion on November 12, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)

Choosing UCLA for his college basketball journey, LaVine exhibited his dunking and shooting skills, securing 48 three-point field goals, the second-highest for a freshman in UCLA’s history. His performance caught the eyes of NBA scouts, and in the 2014 NBA draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected him as the 13th overall pick.

Read More: Draymond Green Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

Achievements And Accolades

Zach Lavine
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MARCH 20: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls reacts during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on March 20, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

LaVine’s NBA journey has been nothing short of spectacular. He secured the NBA Slam Dunk Contest title in both 2015 and 2016, a testament to his athletic prowess. His contributions to the game were further recognized when he was named the NBA Rising Star Challenge MVP in 2016. Beyond the national stage, LaVine represented the United States at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, clinching a gold medal.

Read More: Nikola Jokic Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

Financial Milestones

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – APRIL 20: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls takes a three point shot in the second quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks during Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Fiserv Forum on April 20, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

In July 2022, LaVine inked a 5-year contract extension with the Chicago Bulls, worth a whopping $215 million. This deal translates to an average annual salary of $43 million, a clear reflection of his value and contribution to the team.

Read More: Shaquille O’Neal Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Icon Worth?

Personal Life And Investments

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – FEBRUARY 13: Zach Lavine and Hunter Mar attend the Haute Living, HYT and Geneva Seals honor Zach Lavine at The Virgin Hotel on February 13, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Timothy Hiatt/Getty Images for Haute Living)

Beyond the basketball court, LaVine has made significant investments in real estate. In June 2023, he splurged $34 million on a lavish mansion in Newport Beach, California, situated in the exclusive Pelican Crest gated community. On the personal front, LaVine got engaged to his high school sweetheart, Hunter Mar, in 2020. The couple welcomed their first child, Saint Thomas, in the summer of 2022.

Read More: Zion Williamson Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

Conclusion

Zach LaVine’s journey from a young boy inspired by Michael Jordan to an NBA star with a net worth of $70 million is truly inspirational. His dedication, hard work, and passion for the game have not only earned him accolades on the court but also financial success off it. As he continues to play and inspire, his net worth is only expected to soar higher.

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Lonzo Ball Debunks Stephen A. Smith’s Claims With Powerful Video

Lonzo Ball will remain sidelined for the 2023-24 season as he continues to rehab from a torn meniscus he suffered way back in January 2022. It will be the second consecutive season Ball has missed and no one is feeling the weight of that more than Ball himself. In a recent appearance on the From The Point podcast, Ball said he felt bad for the Bulls as they had built the “perfect team” around him before he went down with injury.

With the NBA season around two months away, Ball’s name popped up on First Take as the panel discussed his podcast appearance. “I don’t think he’ll ever be the same… I’ve heard that it’s even hard for him to get up from the sitting position… I’m really, really sad for him,” lamented Stephen A. Smith. While it seemed like a sincere expression of solidarity with Ball, it was not received as such by the injured player. And so Ball took to social media to clap back at the veteran broadcaster.

Read More: NBA Facebook account hacked by former employee

Balls Tells Smith To “Stop Yapping”

“Who are your sources, bro? Please, tell me who your sources are,” Ball began his response video, in which he could be seen doing one-leg squats with his injured leg. “Come on man. Come on, man. You got to stop yapping,” Ball continued. “And I actually like you, man! I don’t know you like that but I like you! I’m coming back, man. Come on!” More than anything, the post appears to be more for Ball than Smith. It’s proof that he’s not the injured husk that he has been portrayed as by the media. He is recovering, and he will be back. However, he’s also not the only one calling out Smith this week.

After it was reported that Stefon Diggs had missed the first day of the Bills’ mandatory minicamp, Smith claimed he had sources saying that the wide receiver wanted out of Buffalo. Later that same day, Diggs vehemently rejected any notion that he didn’t want to be in Buffalo. “100% not true. I don’t know who the source 😒 is but I thought i nip this shit in the bud already. Rocking wit my dawgs… Bills mafia ❤💙 through and through !!!,” Diggs said in a pair of tweets. Looks like Smith and his team might need to vet their info a little better.

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Michael Jordan Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Legend Worth?

Michael Jordan, the iconic figure who redefined the game of basketball, is no stranger to the world of wealth. As of 2023, the NBA legend’s net worth is estimated to be a staggering $2.6 billion, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This impressive figure is a testament to Jordan’s enduring legacy, both on and off the court.

Jordan’s journey to becoming a billionaire is as fascinating as his illustrious basketball career. His earnings from his playing days, while substantial, are only a fraction of his current wealth. The real wealth accumulation began with his savvy business ventures and lucrative endorsements.

Read More: Michael Jordan & Isiah Thomas Beef: A Breakdown

The NBA Earnings

Michael jordan net worth
(Original Caption) Michael Jordan, forward for the Chicago Bulls, holding a basketball in the locker room.

During his NBA career, Jordan earned a total of $93.8 million in salary. His peak came during the 1996-1997 season when he earned $30.14 million, an amount unheard of at the time. However, these earnings were just the tip of the iceberg.

Read More: Michael Jordan’s Famous Air Jordan 13s Sell For Insane Record Price

The Nike Partnership

Michael jordan net worth
Michael Jordan addresses the media during the launch of the Air Jordan 2009 at The Event Space on January 8, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Kelly Kline/WireImage)

Jordan’s partnership with Nike, which began in 1984, has been one of the most profitable athlete-brand relationships in history. The Air Jordan line, a subsidiary of Nike, has generated billions in sales and continues to be a major contributor to Jordan’s wealth. The NBA legend reportedly earns a royalty of up to $130 million annually from Nike.

Read More: Michael Jordan Finals Sneakers Go For Record Number

The Charlotte Hornets Investment

Michael jordan net worth
SHANGHAI, CHINA – OCTOBER 14: NBA legend Michael Jordan, smiles during a NBA game between Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers at Mercedes-Benz Arena on October 14, 2015 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Hu Chengwei/Getty Images)

In 2010, Jordan made a strategic investment that would significantly boost his net worth. He became the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets, investing $175 million for a 90% stake. As of 2023, the team is valued at over $1.5 billion, making this investment a significant part of Jordan’s net worth. However, he recently sold his stake in the team for a reported $3B.

Read More: All Of Michael Jordan’s Business Ventures

Other Ventures And Endorsements

Michael jordan net worth
UNITED STATES – FEBRUARY 08: Basketball: NBA Slam Dunk Contest, Chicago Bulls Michael Jordan (23) in action, making dunk during All Star Weekend, Seattle, WA 2/8/1987 (Photo by Andy Hayt/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (SetNumber: X34346 TK2 R1)

Jordan’s financial portfolio extends beyond basketball and Nike. He has endorsement deals with several other major brands, including Gatorade, Hanes, and Upper Deck. He also owns a stake in the Miami Marlins and has investments in several other businesses.

Read More: Michael Jordan Immortalized With NBA’s New MVP Trophy

The Philanthropic Side

Michael jordan net worth
NORTH LAS VEGAS, NV – APRIL 06: NBA legend Michael Jordan (L) presents former NFL player Brian Urlacher and Roger Clemens with a check for $40,000 after they won Aria Resort & Casino’s 13th Annual Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational at Shadow Creek on April 6, 2014 in North Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Isaac Brekken/Getty Images for Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational)

Despite his immense wealth, Jordan has not forgotten the importance of giving back. He has donated millions to various charitable causes, including a $5 million donation to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. His philanthropic efforts further cement his status as a role model, both on and off the court.

The Legacy Continues

Michael Jordan’s net worth in 2023 is a testament to his enduring influence and business acumen. From his record-breaking NBA career to his lucrative business ventures, Jordan has proven that he is not just a basketball legend, but also a financial titan. As he continues to build his empire, there’s no telling what heights he will reach next.

In conclusion, Michael Jordan’s net worth is not just a reflection of his basketball prowess, but also his strategic investments and business ventures. His journey to becoming a billionaire is a testament to his relentless pursuit of success, both on and off the court. As of 2023, the NBA legend’s net worth stands at an impressive $2.6 billion, and it’s safe to say that his financial legacy will continue to grow.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Chicago Bulls Apply for Disabled Player Exception Due to Lonzo Ball’s Injury

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The Chicago Bulls are looking to create some leverage in their Lonzo Ball injury situation. According to ESPN‘s Jamal Collier, the Bulls have filed for the disabled player exception after noting Ball would miss the entire 2023-24 season.

If the NBA approves the exception, it would be worth half of Ball’s salary, impacting the team’s payroll by $10.2 million. The Bulls could trade or claim a player in the final year of the contract or sign a free agent to a one-year deal.

Ball has not played since Jan. 2022, and he recently had cartilage transplant surgery in March.

So far in free agency, the Bulls have brought back guard Coby White on a 3-year, $40 million deal, added Jevon Carter at three years and $20 million and eyeing Ayo Dosunmu to return. Center Andre Drummond exercised his $3.5 million player option to remain with the team.

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Chicago Bulls Reportedly Finding It Impossible To Trade Zach LaVine

The Chicago Bulls’ plan to potentially trade Zach LaVine has reportedly hit a major roadblock. While it was reported earlier in the offseason that the Bulls were testing the trade market on LaVine, it appears that there is no market to speak of.

However, this is not due to LaVine as a player. He is coming off a strong year statistically. Instead, the Bulls’ demands are simply too high for anyone to be able to offer a feasible trade.

It is believed that the Bulls have taken the Washington Wizards’ trade of Bradley Beal as a benchmark are looking to go well past the package Washington got. However, this has left them without anyone who is willing to part ways with that much capital.

Related: Victor Oladipo exercises player option with the Miami Heat

Bulls Shoot Themselves In The Foot On LaVine Trade

As mentioned, the Bulls are looking for a monster package for LaVine. This likely includes multiple first-round picks and at least one “elite” player. There are just a few problems with that demand.

Firstly, a trade like that would have been most useful before the draft, when there was at least one immediate draft pick on the table. This would have especially been the case for Chicago, who made just one pick midway through the second round. However, there is also the issue of LaVine’s contract.

LaVine is about to start the second year of a full-guaranteed $215 million contract. His 2023-24 salary is $40 million, equivalent to nearly 30% of the salary cap. So not only would the Bulls have to find someone who would both want LaVine and have adequate capital to give up for LaVine, they would also need to find someone who could take on LaVine’s massive salary. With free agency set to start on Friday, it appears that LaVine will be staying in Chicago for the time being.

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Raptors Fielding Multiple Calls About Pascal Siakam

One player who is getting a lot of trade attention is the Raptors’ Pascal Siakam. Per Michael Grange of Sportsnet, the Raptors are fielding calls from at least six teams about the player.

It was previously reported that the Hawks were eager to acquire Siakam, as were the Kings. However, it appears that in the past week, at least four other teams have joined the bidding. The Raptors would reportedly prefer to keep the eighth-year player. However, the right draft package could convince the team, and new head coach Darko Rajaković, to move on from him.

The news comes amid rumors that the Houston Rockets are preparing a massive bid for Fred VanVleet. Per Marc Stein, the Rockets are reportedly willing to offer VanVleet a 2-year, $83.6 million deal in free agency. VanVleet made $85 million over the last four years in Toronto.

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Lonzo Ball Gets Tough Injury Update

Lonzo Ball hasn’t seen an NBA court since January 2022. During a career year for the 2017 second-overall pick, he went down with a meniscus tear in his left knee. The injury needed surgery and Ball was ruled out of the 2022-23 season.

Ball’s career has been largely defined by injury. He missed almost half of his sophomore season after undergoing surgery to fix the same injury that ruled him out of the most recent NBA season. Partially as a result of this, Ball is on his third NBA team despite only being drafted in 2017.

The Bulls are currently in a state of flux, having made the playoffs just twice in the last eight seasons. Furthermore, the team has been unable to stay consistent. They regressed six games in terms of wins in 2022/23 compared to the season prior. Now, they will have to play without Ball for at least another season.

Related: Bulls float Zach LaVine trade

No Ball For The Bulls In 2023/24

Per the Bulls’ VP of Basketball Operations Arturas Karnisovas, Lonzo Ball will not be playing next season. “Our expectation is that he’s not coming back next season,” Karnisovas said following Thursday’s NBA draft. “He’s going to continue on his recovery. If he comes back, it would be great. But we’re just going to treat this offseason and get ready for the season that he’s not going to be back.”

Ball’s rehabilitation has reportedly been “incremental” since sustaining the injury in January 2022. However, the team noted that his most recent surgery has given Ball the best chance to resume his NBA career at some point in the future. Karnisovas further noted that Ball had recently begun to walk without crutches.

However, this progress will be of little comfort to Bulls fans, who are preparing themselves for another rough season. Beyond Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls had just one player who averaged more than 15 points per game last season. Furthermore, this comes at a time when the Eastern Conference continues to grow more competitive. In the recent 2023 NBA Draft, the Bulls made just one selection – taking Tennessee’s Julian Phillips in the second round.

Related: Bronny James to wear #6 jersey USC in tribute to LeBron

Other Players Seek To Make Injury Bounce Backs

However, there is better news in regard to injuries for a number of other players in the basketball landscape. Khris Middleton, who was limited to 33 games last season, is hoping for a full bounce-back season. Furthermore, Middleton recently declined his $40 million player option to test free agency, though re-signing with the Bucks remains an option.

Further south, the Pelicans will be hoping to get a full season out of Zion Williamson. Williamson, the first-overall pick in 2019, has played just 29 games over the last two seasons. While he appears to be staying in New Orleans for the time being, his future with the team could very much depend on whether he stays healthy enough to contribute.

Elsewhere, there’s good news for the UConn Huskies women’s basketball team. Head coach Geno Auriemma has announced that he expects Paige Bueckers to be ready for the start of the season. Bueckers, who won National Player of the Year as a freshman, has been plagued by injuries the past two seasons. After playing 17 games as a sophomore, Bueckers missed the entire 2022-23 season with an ACL tear.

Related: Atlanta Hawks reportedly pursuing Pascal Siakam

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The 7 Best NBA Finals Of All Time, Ranked

The Denver Nuggets made history last Monday night (June 12), conquering the Miami Heat in five games to claim the coveted NBA Championship. The riveting Game 5 averaged an impressive 11.64 million viewers, according to the NBA. Only the elite ascend to the NBA Finals, a mecca where spellbinding moments of honor and agony, have been immortalized. Michael Jordan’s nonchalant shrug, Magic Johnson’s five-position game, Allen Iverson stepping over Tyronn Lue. And who could forget Ray Allen’s heroic three-pointer at the buzzer or Willis Reed hobbling onto the court despite injury? A remarkable tapestry that speaks to the heights of human achievement. In pursuit of the greatest NBA Finals of all time, we seek not only an exemplary collective performance, but also individual standouts: dazzling one-on-one duels, scintillating breakout performances, and defining moments that resonate with lasting significance.

7. Chicago Bulls Vs. Phoenix Suns (1993)

Chicago Bulls and Phoenix Suns during Game 4 of the 1993 NBA FInals.
Basketball: NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls Michael Jordan (23) in action vs Phoenix Suns at United Center. Game 4.
Chicago, IL 6/16/1993
CREDIT: Manny Millan (Photo by Manny Millan /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X44517 )

Riding on the back of an MVP season, Charles Barkley and his Phoenix Suns surged through the Western Conference. Yet, when they faced off against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls at home, Games 1 and 2 proved to be overwhelming defeats. While they took a hard-fought Game 3 in overtime at the United Center, Jordan retaliated with a monumental 55-point outing in Game 4. Averaging an astounding 41 points for the entire series, it was clear who the true MVP was. Finally, John Paxson’s iconic game-winning jump shot in Game 6 clinched the championship for Jordan and the Bulls, marking their first three-peat and solidifying MJ as basketball royalty.

Read More: Skip Bayless Makes The NBA Finals About LeBron James

6. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Philadelphia 76ers (1980)

Magic Johnson of the LA Lakers and Julius Irving of Philadelphia 76ers during Game 4 of the 1980 NBA Finals.
Basketball: NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson (32) in action, shot vs Philadelphia 76ers Julius Erving (6). Game 4. Philadelphia, PA 5/11/1980 CREDIT: Manny Millan (Photo by Manny Millan /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X24508 )

The 1980 NBA Finals saw a battle between the experienced and the youth, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 33.4 averages indicative of his veteran finesse. Then, it was Magic Johnson’s turn; the rookie filled in for an injured Abdul-Jabbar in Game 6 and delivered a masterful performance, commanding all five positions to accumulate 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists in a game-winning 123-107 victory. It was a coming-out party for Magic; he announced himself as a star of the future, guiding the Lakers to decades of success. Meanwhile, classic footage of Dr. J’s now famous baseline reverse layup happened during Game 4.

Read More: Five Best Kobe Bryant Sneakers To Cop For The NBA Finals

5. Spurs Vs. Heat (2013)

Considered one of the best NBA Finals of all time, Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs and <a href=Lebron James of the Miami Heat go head-to-head during Game 6 during the 2013 Finals. ” class=”wp-image-689220″ srcset=”https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GettyImages-170061203.jpg 1024w, https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GettyImages-170061203-300×213.jpg 300w, https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GettyImages-170061203-768×546.jpg 768w” sizes=”(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px” />
MIAMI, FL – JUNE 06: Tony Parker #9 of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat in the first quarter during Game One of the 2013 NBA Finals at AmericanAirlines Arena on June 6, 2013 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

The Spurs surged ahead 3-2 in the series after a decisive win in Game 5. Led by Tony Parker, they built a 13-point advantage late in the third quarter of Game 6. Then Lebron James took over, masterfully rallying Miami to snatch the lead with 6:03 left. Undeterred, Parker retaliated with five swift points, securing a 93-89 lead for San Antonio with 40 seconds left. Manu Ginobili ensured victory by sinking a crucial free throw with 28 seconds remaining. Celebrations edged closer as San Antonio prepared to clinch until James’ miraculous 3-pointer kept Miami alive. With 22.9 seconds on the clock, Kawhi Leonard made it a two-possession game, yet still, James stayed undaunted, finding Chris Bosh for one of the most legendary shots in NBA history. Crowned champions in overtime, Miami solidified its legacy behind James’ memorable 32-point performance in Game 7.

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4.  Chicago Bulls Vs. Utah Jazz (1997)

Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz during game 2 of the 1997 NBA Finals.
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES: Chicago Bulls player Michael Jordan sticks out his tongue as he goes past Jeff Hornacek of the Utah Jazz 04 June during game two of the NBA Finals at the United Center in Chicago, IL. The Bulls lead the best-of-seven series 1-0. AFP PHOTO/Vincent LAFORET (Photo credit should read VINCENT LAFORET/AFP via Getty Images)

MJ’s greatness was indisputable, as seen in his famed Flu Game. Everyone still remembers his heroic 38-point performance in Utah—a crucial three to tie the game sealed the Bulls’ 3-2 series lead. Yet, other narratives captivated viewers. Karl Malone took MVP honors with 27.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.4 steals, despite MJ averaging 29.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.7 steals on a 69-13 Bulls team. Undeterred, Jordan drove forward to snatch the Larry O’Brien trophy from the Jazz’s grasp.

Read More: Michael Jordan Signed “Flu Game” Sneakers Sell For Huge Price At Auction

3.  Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Detroit Pistons (1988)

UNITED STATES – JUNE 14: Basketball: finals, Detroit Pistons Isiah Thomas (11) in action, taking layup vs Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit, MI 6/14/1988 (Photo by Richard Mackson/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (SetNumber: X36723 TK7)

The Showtime Lakers and Bad Boy Pistons clashed in a thrilling exhibition of contrasting basketball ideologies. Magic Johnson of LA outweighed Isiah Thomas of Detroit, making for an enthralling match-up. After Pat Riley promised a repeat of the championship parade in Los Angeles, the defending champions had a target on their back for the whole season. 

The first five games were split between Detroit and Los Angeles with no game being decided by single-digits. Pontiac Silverdome was bid farewell as Detroit defeated the Lakers 104-94 to take a 3-2 series lead. However, in Game 6, Isiah Thomas suffered a rolled right ankle yet still scored 11 of Detroit’s last 15 points, pushing them to an 81-79 lead. Ultimately, a neck-to-neck finish saw the Lakers win 103-102, extending the series. James Worthy dominated Game 7, delivering a 36-16-10 line to lead the Lakers to back-to-back championships. Thus, earning him the moniker of Big Game James.

Read More: Michael Jordan & Isiah Thomas Beef: A Breakdown

2. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Boston Celtics (1984)

Larry Bird of the Celtics and Magic Johnson of the Lakers during Game 1 of 1984 NBA Finals.
Basketball: NBA Finals: Boston Celtics Larry Bird (33) in action, layup vs Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson (32). Game 1.
Boston, MA 5/27/1984
CREDIT: Carl Skalak (Photo by Carl Skalak /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X30077 TK1 R5 )

Bird and Johnson, two icons, had yet to face off in the Finals for the first four years of their careers. That changed in 1984, however, with a series that lasted seven games and featured an unforgettable clothesline from Kevin McHale on Kurt Ramis. On every level, this matchup lived up to the hype—Bird averaged 27.4 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists for the Celtics, ultimately taking home MVP honors as his team emerged triumphant in Game 7. Johnson’s averages weren’t far behind at 18.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 13.6 assists. It was an epic battle that kick-started a golden era of NBA basketball, propelling the league into mainstream stardom on the backs of Bird’s and Johnson’s fierce rivalry.

Read More: Top 10 Best NBA Finals Series Of All Time

1. Cavaliers Vs. Warriors (2016)

Lebron James and Klay Thompson during NBA Finals 2016.
CLEVELAND, OH – JANUARY 18: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers posts up against Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on January 18, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Down 3-1, LeBron James’ mission was clear: to deliver a championship to Cleveland. It was a feat he had been determined to achieve ever since joining the Cavaliers in 2003. Yet, achieving this goal seemed impossible when pitted against the Warriors’ historic 73-9 record. But LeBron and Kyrie Irving were unstoppable together, culminating in an epic Game 7 victory. In one legendary series, LeBron earned his place as the greatest player of all time.

Read More: Kendrick Lamar’s Album Releases Could Predict The NBA Finals

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Bulls Reportedly Believe Lonzo Ball Will Have To Retire

Lonzo Ball has had it rough these past couple of years. As many of you already know, he has been suffering from a very bizarre knee injury. Overall, it has made it so that he still cannot run or jump. That is pretty wild when you consider how the injury took place in January of 2022. However, Lonzo’s injury has largely stumped physicians and doctors. He had one surgery that didn’t help. This subsequently led to a second surgery, that also didn’t help. Now, Lonzo is in the midst of recovering from a cartilage transplant.

When you combine all of these surgeries, you are left with a pretty grim outlook. Although Lonzo Ball is committed to returning to the NBA, there is really no guarantee that he will be able to do such a thing. There have been very little updates that suggest he is on track for a full recovery. Moreover, cartilage transplants are rare and indicative of a very bad injury. In fact, some would say that the recovery time would keep him out for a whole other year. Now, however, the reporting around Lonzo is getting grimmer.

Read More: Tristan Thompson Provides Sobering Update On Lonzo Ball’s Injury

A Rough Go For Lonzo Ball

According to reporter Dan Bernstein, there is a sense around the Chicago Bulls organization that Lonzo Ball is finished. Overall, these are just rumors, however, they are quite shocking, regardless. There seems to be this notion that he won’t be able to recover. Moreover, cartilage surgery is usually seen as a worst-case scenario in a lot of instances. Needless to say, this is very bad news the Bulls, and it is worse news for Ball. However, we await to hear what Lonzo himself has to say about all of this.

Hopefully, he is able to recover and play again. Lonzo Ball was coming into his own before the injury. Additionally, he made a great trip with Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan. Now, Lonzo could very well be related to “What-if” status. Let us know what you think about all of this, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news from around the sports world.

Read More: Lonzo Ball Reacts To LiAngelo Ball’s Latest Contract

Joakim Noah Launches Basketball League With Great Intentions

During his time with the Chicago Bulls, Joakim Noah became a fan favorite. The former Bulls big man wasn’t afraid to express himself on the court. Noah became a staple piece of the franchise during the Derrick Rose era. The former Florida Gators star spent the first nine years of his thirteen-year career in Chicago. So it goes without saying that Noah has a large soft spot for the city. However, now Noah wants to give back to the city that gave him so much for so many years.

On Monday, Noah sat down with NBA insider Shams Charania to discuss his plans for a basketball league. However, this basketball league isn’t like the one you are picturing right now. But a league that is more than just basketball. The NBA veteran announced the start of the ‘One City Basketball League.’ A league that will create a better opportunity for those seeking a better life. The league will be partnered with over 28 violence prevention groups. Check out the interview with Noah and Charania below.

Joakim Noah Seeking Change In Chicago

The league is hoping to be much bigger than just a place for people to play basketball. The goal is to provide financial incentives for those involved. As well as other off-the-court programs and job opportunities. The league is a fantastic idea for any city, not just Chicago. Violent crimes and violence in general continues to be on the rise in the United States. It is great to see those who have a large voice, like Noah, attempt to make a change within their communities.

The ‘One City Basketball League’ is a fantastic start to building a place for people to take pride in their city. During the interview, Noah mentioned what playing in Chicago means to him. “One of the ways to unify the city is through hoops. Some of my best friends, to this day, are from playing basketball. That’s what we’re trying to do. We’re trying to unify the city.” Kudos to Joakim Noah for attempting to make a positive impact in the United States. For the latest sports news, keep it right here with HNHH.

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