By halftime of the 2022 All-Star game, Steph Curry was rolling, Giannis Antetokounmpo was impressing, and LeBron James had the whole world contemplating his potential return to Cleveland.
But as soon as he arrived on the scene, in time for the NBA’s 75th-anniversary ceremony, Michael Jordan stole the show.
After making his grand (and shocking) entrance, MJ was under the spotlight for the rest of the night and had the basketball world in awe over the mysterious aura he carries everywhere he goes.
From his walk during the ceremony to his trash talk to Magic, here are some of the moments that were captured on camera.
One thing fans kept pointing out is how Jordan has a different aura than everyone else. Despite all the legends in that building, MJ generated more excitement from the fans, and his peers, than anyone else.
Giannis Antetokounmpo described his experience meeting him for the first time on Sunday:
“I asked if he was here, but they told me he was not here at first. But then I saw him when he came out and I was kind of like in shock… arguably the best player to ever play the game. It’s crazy. I just went up to him to introduce myself. I was kind of surprised he knew who I was… no I’m just joking.”
Jordan, who turned 59 earlier this month, wasn’t just a dominant basketball player. His swagger, attitude, and natural charm earned him worldwide fame that nobody had seen at the time. He became the face of basketball and a recognizable sports icon for fans all around the world.
Even today, decades after his run with the Bulls ended, it’s clear that he hasn’t lost any of what made him so special.
He carries a different air about him, the air of a true Champion, of the greatest player basketball has ever seen.
