Michael Jordan Retirement

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December 1, 2009 Dr. Cherif Correa MATC Madison Dear Dr. Correa: With this letter we are enclosing our report on the retiring of Michael Jordan’s number 23, league-wide in the NBA. This report argues the legacy of Michael Jordan and the impact he had on not only the sport of basketball, but also the business side of athletics and athletes. It also illustrates how other industry icons impacted their fields with the significance of their works. The issue at hand is the controversy concerning retiring a number across the National Basketball Association. In its history, there has never been a jersey number that has received that honor, nor has there ever been a person who has been officially deemed the most influential player or…show more content…
Such an honor is rarely seen and this topic has recently been brought to attention by LeBron James, who is a standout player for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA. James also wears number 23. By retiring Jordan’s number, the professional basketball community will be acknowledging the career achievements of Michael, both on the basketball court and outside the NBA. His influence on the game has been so great, that today’s most talented and famous players have honed their skills after Jordan’s. Also, his achievements on the court helped him pave the way professional athletes’ market their overall careers off the court and develop additional income opportunities. He changed the way the game is played today, and because of this, has earned the right, respect, and honor of having his number retired; therefore having his name and legacy last throughout…show more content…
He has become one of the most recognized people in the entire world. (http://www.africanaonline.com/michael_jordan.htm) Already having his popularity soar in the United States since being drafted into the National Basketball Association, Michael’s worldwide popularity began at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain. He and his teammates were dubbed the “Dream Team,” as all of the players were NBA all-stars and destined hall-of-famers. Coming off his second consecutive NBA championship, the world began to take notice of his talents and marketability. His second trip to the Olympics would be his last Olympic performance and undoubtedly his greatest. He averaged 15 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 4.6 steals in eight total games on his way to a second straight Olympic gold medal. (http://www.michaeljordansworld.com) It is safe to say that anyone in the world today can see a picture of Michael and instantly recognizes who he is, what he’s done and the products associated with him. His popularity is so great, if you go to Google and search “Michael,” his last name will appear in the

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