Michael Jordan's Basketball Hall of Fame Speech

Introduction

• Michael Jordan introduces and thanks hall-of-famer David Thompson.
• Initially jokes about giving a brief speech.

Inspiration and Motivation

• David Thompson: Childhood idol for Jordan, represented more than just basketball.
• Parents: Instilled competitive nature in Jordan.
  • Brothers: Provided intense competition; older brother served in the Army for 31 years.
  • Sister: Graduated high school early to attend UNC with Jordan.

Early Influences

• Coach Smith: Legendary coach at UNC, formative influence.
• Leroy Smith: Motivated Jordan after being chosen over him for the varsity team.
• Buzz Peterson: Roommate and competitor, whom Jordan used as a benchmark.

Professional Career

• Initial Years: Drafted by Chicago Bulls, coached by Kevin Loughery.
  • Overcame injuries, proved himself despite minutes restrictions.
• Jerry Reinsdorf: Offered support despite conflicts.
• Doug Collins: Became close due to shared competitive nature.
• Jerry Krause: Competed with him; disagreement over team vs. player importance.

Family and Personal Life

• Children: Jeffrey, Marcus, Jasmine; expressed love and support for them facing expectations.
• Mother: Credited her for constant support and life lessons.

Competitive Nature and Opponents

• Detroit Pistons: Used supposed 'freeze out' as motivation.
• Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, George Gervin: Sought to prove himself against them.
• Pat Riley & NY Knicks: Intense rivalry, respect for competitive nature.
• Bryon Russell: Used comments about guarding Jordan as fuel.

Conclusion

• Philosophy: Basketball provided comfort, intense emotions, and joy.
• Legacy: Hopes to inspire others to achieve their goals through hard work and perseverance.
• Future: Jokes about potentially playing at 50, emphasizes that limits and fears are illusions.