Be Like Mike

Although I am an admitted Kobe Bryant apologist, I still have much respect for the most iconic figure the game of basketball has ever seen: Michael Jordan. MJ turns 46 today and therefore I would like to pay homage to the man, the myth, the legend. Jordan's global influence literally can not be calculated. There is no doubt that he is not only the greatest basketball player that has ever lived, but also the most well marketed man in the history of sports. Jordan permeated the globe to such a degree that one year his face was found to be the most recognizable in the world. Number two on that list, was Jesus Christ.

My adoration of Jordan is smaller than many of my friends. I simply contend that I was too young to fully appreciate his greatness (He retired from the Bulls when I was 12). That being said, it would be ludicrous for me not to acknowledge his extraordinary abilities both on and off the court.

My favorite on the court Jordan moments



Jordan's on the court highlights are simply indelible moments of greatness.

The Shrug



Dunk on Ewing



Jordan/Mutombo






It's hard to find the individual plays, so here is a highlight compilation




My favorite off the court Jordan moments



Every year around this time, Jordan comes out with a new sneaker and commercial to promote that sneaker. These commercials, as well as his ads for other products (namely Gatorade, Hanes, and Ballpark Franks- the only hot dog brand my unnamed cousin will eat) have become ingrained into the pop culture allure. Each commercial seems to have a specific message (usually the title) that sticks with you well after you see it.

Be Like Mike


I secretly love the rap that you can hear in the full version of the song

People also love this Gatorade commercial.

What is Love?



Let Your Game Speak



My all time favorite.

Become Legendary



As great as this commercial was, I was a little disappointed that no Carmelo Anthony clips while he was in college at Syracuse were shown, but they did show Marvin Harrison speeding down the sideline of the Loud House.

Failure



Jordan has done so much in his 46 years that he oftentimes doesn't get all the credit that he deserves. For example, who do you think started the whole talc powder at mid court before a game thing? Well it wasn't Lebron (Why do you think he wears the #23?). And it wasn't Garnett (who I originally thought it was). It was MJ.

The one thing, out of all that is Jordan, that is perhaps my favorite, and that I never want him to lose credit for is his post game fist pump.