JOUR 311 Assignment

JOUR311 Karadjov

Cienna Acevedo

JORDAN RETIRES

“I thought of just saying two words: I’m gone. But I figured I owe the fans and certainly the media a little bit more than that,” said Michael Jordan during his retirement speech of his basketball career—for the second and final time. The thirteen-year dedicated Chicago Bulls player made the announcement in a press conference at Chicago’s United Center.

“Mentally I am exhausted,” Jordan stated, in response to a comparison about his earlier retirement. “I don’t feel I have the challenge.” However, the 35-year-old basketball player reaffirmed his gratitude and appreciation of his former position on the Chicago Bulls team. As a response to Jordan changing his mind on his retirement, “No, I never say never, but 99.9 percent I am very secure with my decision.”

During Jordan’s time on the team, he paved the way for the Chicago Bulls six time streak in winning national championships. Clearly gifted in the sport of basketball, Jordan held the record in the National Basketball Association league with a score average of 31.5 points per game. Due to his many accomplishments and their impact in the world of basketball, Jordan’s farewell will be tough for his teammates and fans to swallow.

Both Jerry Reinsdorf, Chicago Bulls CEO, and David Stern, NBA Commissioner, appeared beside Jordan at the press conference. “It’s a tough day for Chicago, it’s a tough day for the NBA, it’s a tough day for basketball fans all over the world and for Michael Jordan fans all over the world,” Reinsdorf expressed. After his speech, Reinsdorf offered Jordan the 1998 World Championship Ring. “This is not a sad day,” differed Stern. “This is a great day, because the greatest basketball player in the history of the game is getting the opportunity to retire with the grace that described his play.”

As a father of three, Jordan expressed focusing on his family, continuing to remain in Chicago, and “support the Chicago teams”. “I will live vicariously through my kids as they play the game of basketball,” said Jordan. “If they don’t I will support that.

Although Michael Jordan holds onto that undecided one percent, he leaves his fans with positive moments and inspiring performances on the court for them to remember him by for the last thirteen years. “Michael is simply the best player who ever put on a basketball uniform,” said Reinsdorf. “He has defined the Bulls, the city and the NBA for more than a decade. He will always represent a standard of excellence.” -30-