Former NBA legend Michael Jordan is often regarded not only as the greatest basketball player of all time, but now also as one of the greatest entrepreneurs of all time. Jordan officially became the first athlete to make the Forbes 400, a list of self-made billionaires.
After purchasing the Charlotte Bobcats (now the Hornets) for $275 million in 2010, Jordan sold his majority stake in the team for $3 billion in August. The sale of the Hornets increased Jordan’s net worth to $3 billion and solidified his place on the Forbes 400 list.
During his 15-year career with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards, Jordan’s career earnings were approximately $94 million. He has endorsed some of the world’s most recognized brands, such as McDonald’s, Gatorade, Wheaties, Chevrolet, and more.
Of course, we can’t forget Jordan’s collaboration with Nike and his famous Air Jordan brand. Air Jordan has become a multi-billion dollar sneaker brand that has taken the world by storm ever since Jordan wore and represented his brand during some of the most defining moments of his NBA career.
Although Jordan last played in a game in 2003, his legend continues to grow over time. He is a savvy businessman who knows how to use his image/likeness to help grow his investment portfolio and continue to grow his net worth.
While Jordan is the first athlete to make this list, he likely won’t be the last. Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has a net worth of $1 billion and appears to be on his way to becoming a billionaire as he continues to become more involved in ventures outside of basketball while also earning nearly $432 billion from his career. Millionaire. His 20-year NBA career.