Here are some of the most controversial quotes from Michael Jordan
“Republicans buy sneakers too.” This quote is often used to criticize Jordan for his lack of political activism and social responsibility. It was allegedly said by Jordan in 1990, when he refused to endorse Harvey Gantt, a black Democrat who was running against Jesse Helms, a white Republican and notorious racist, for a Senate seat in North Carolina. Jordan later claimed that he said it as a joke to his friend and teammate Sam Smith, who was a reporter at the time. Jordan also said that he did donate money to Gantt’s campaign, but he did not want to be involved in politics publicly.
“I don’t have a gambling problem. I have a competition problem.” This quote is from Jordan’s interview with Ahmad Rashad in 1993, after he was accused of gambling excessively and associating with shady characters. Jordan admitted that he liked to gamble, but he denied that it affected his personal or professional life. He said that he gambled for fun and challenge, not for money. He also said that he never bet on basketball games or anything that could compromise his integrity.
“There is no ‘I’ in team but there is in win.” This quote is from Jordan’s autobiography “For the Love of the Game”, published in 1998. It reflects Jordan’s competitive and individualistic mindset, which sometimes clashed with his teammates and coaches. Jordan was known for his relentless drive to win, which often made him demand more from himself and others. He also believed that he had to take over games and make clutch shots, even if it meant sacrificing team play.
“I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I succeed.” This quote is from a Nike commercial that aired in 1997. It shows Jordan’s resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity and criticism. Jordan faced many obstacles and challenges throughout his career, such as being cut from his high school varsity team, losing to the Detroit Pistons three times in the playoffs, retiring twice, playing baseball, and coming back to the NBA at age 38. He also missed more than 9000 shots, lost almost 300 games, and missed 26 game-winning shots. But he never gave up and always learned from his mistakes.
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” This quote is from a motivational poster that features Jordan dunking. It captures Jordan’s work ethic and determination to achieve his goals. Jordan was not only gifted with natural talent, but he also worked hard to improve his skills and overcome his weaknesses. He practiced tirelessly, studied his opponents, watched game tapes, lifted weights, and followed a strict diet. He also had a strong will and confidence that enabled him to perform under pressure and overcome any challenge.
