While living in Chicago during the 90s, as a budding entrepreneur with dreams as lofty as the skyscrapers that define its skyline, I found an unlikely mentor in Michael Jordan, whose biography "Michael Jordan: The Life" by Roland Lazenby, became my guidebook.
Through Lazenby's meticulous research and vivid storytelling, I journeyed alongside Jordan, not just as a fan but as someone seeking to understand the fabric of greatness.
My admiration for Michael Jordan began not with his legend, but with his humanity. Living in Chicago, the pulse of the city seemed to beat with the rhythm of Jordan's successes and challenges. His confident swagger was not just for show; it was a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, a quality I aspired to embody in my entrepreneurial ventures.
And it goes without saying that Jordan’s mastery on the court was poetry in motion, an artistry so profound that it transcended the realm of sports and entered the domain of pure spectacle.
What drew me closer to Jordan’s story was not just his athletic prowess but his self-admitted love for the game of basketball. It was a reminder of the passion that should fuel our pursuits, whether in sports, business, or any other field.
This love for the game was palpable in every one of his jump shots, every defensive play, and every championship run, inspiring me to approach my endeavors with the same fervor and dedication.
Following Jordan's life through Lazenby's narrative was like tracing the path of a comet that illuminates the night sky. The unfortunate murder of his father, James Jordan, however, was a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities that even the greatest among us face.
This tragedy revealed a depth of resilience in Jordan, as he grappled with profound loss while under the unrelenting gaze of the public eye. His foray into professional baseball, a tribute to his late father’s dream, showcased his willingness to venture into the unknown, a trait every entrepreneur must possess. Though his baseball career was short-lived, it was a testament to his indefatigable spirit and refusal to be confined by the expectations of others.
Jordan's return to basketball and his historic championship runs with the Chicago Bulls were more than just triumphs; they were a rebirth of a legend who had dared to imagine, to fail, and to rise again. These moments were not merely victories in the annals of sports history; they were chapters in a larger narrative of perseverance, leadership, and unmatched excellence.
Jordan’s ability to elevate his team, to instill belief in the hearts of his teammates, and to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat were lessons in leadership that I absorbed eagerly, applying them to my own life as I navigated the challenges of solopreneurship.
Michael Jordan's significance extends far beyond the basketball court; he is a pivotal figure in Black History, a symbol of what can be achieved against the odds. His legacy is a beacon for countless young Black individuals and aspiring athletes, proving that excellence is not confined by the color of one’s skin.
Jordan's life story, as chronicled by Lazenby, serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have, not just in their chosen field, but in shaping the course of history.
As I reflect on "Michael Jordan: The Life," I am reminded of the myriad ways in which Jordan’s journey mirrors the entrepreneurial path. Both are laden with obstacles, both require a deep-seated passion and resilience, and both have the power to inspire those who dare to follow in their footsteps.
Michael Jordan's ascent in the world of basketball coincided with a pivotal era in American history, where issues of race and equality were at the forefront of the national dialogue. His significance to Black History cannot be overstated; Jordan became an emblem of Black excellence, breaking barriers in professional basketball and reshaping the cultural landscape.
Through his unparalleled success, Jordan challenged the stereotypes and prejudices that had long plagued Black athletes, proving that talent and hard work know no racial boundaries. His journey was a beacon of hope and a source of pride for the Black community, demonstrating the potential for greatness despite systemic obstacles.
Moreover, Jordan's impact extended beyond the basketball court into the realms of business and social justice. As one of the first Black athletes to turn his success into a global brand, Jordan paved the way for future generations of athletes and entrepreneurs of color.
His contributions, however, were not limited to personal achievements. Through his philanthropy and advocacy, Jordan has been a force for change, using his platform to address issues of racial inequality and social injustice. In doing so, he has cemented his legacy not just as a sports icon but as a key figure in the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality, making his story an indelible part of Black history.
As I continue to navigate the complexities of my writing journey, I carry with me the lessons learned from Jordan's life. His journey underscores the belief that with talent, passion, and perseverance, any obstacle can be overcome, any ceiling can be shattered, and any goal can be achieved.
Michael Jordan, through his life and Lazenby's recounting of it, remains an eternal inspiration, embodying the essence of greatness and the boundless potential within us all.
Become a Monthly or Annual Member Supporter
Black Books, Black Minds” is a key foundation of my “Great Books, Great Minds” passion project. For me, it’s a labor of love fueled by the endless hours of work I put into researching and writing these feature articles.
My aim is to ignite a new world of community, connection, and belonging through the rich trove of Black History themes, thought leaders, and authors we unearth.
So if you are enjoying this digital newsletter, find it valuable, and savor world-class book experience featuring non-fiction authors and book evangelists on Black History themes, then please consider becoming a paid member supporter at $6.00/month or $60.00/year. Every little bit counts in terms of allowing me to continue this work.
— Diamond-Michael Scott
Good morning! I love your content, insightful reviews and willingness to share. You are a revelation.
On Michael Jordan, I will admit a bit of pettiness that still holds true for me at 64.
Background - I worked as a Hill staffer for 20 years, including stints as Chief of Staff. In 1990, I volunteered to work on the campaign of Democratic candidate for the Senate, Harvey Gantt. Among other things, Mr. Gantt integrated Clemson University (I believe) and was an excellent Mayor of Charlotte, NC. My skill set then was helping my then-boss draft the Civil Rights Act of 1990. Sen. Jesse Helms vehemently opposed the bill. Knowing Helms, an avowed racist, would come out against the bill, we wanted to be ready with our arguments.
At some point in the campaign we got word that allegedly Michael Jordan would not endorse our candidate over Jesse Helms. Jesse Helms. The man who whistled "Dixie" to the lone Black Senator in an elevator. Who despised Martin Luther King, Jr. and a man to whom I briefly served as Chief of Staff, John Lewis. What?
You recall Gantt lost by less than five percentage points. Would Jordan's support put Gantt over the edge? Who knows. Paraphrasing Jordan, Republicans buy sneakers too. No one should be judged by one moment in time so I am gradually getting over the most bitter electoral loss of the 40 campaigns I've volunteered or managed. Mr. Jordan has done amazing things in his life, far surpassing anything I will ever do. Thanks for your analysis again.
Agreed.