Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history. Moreover, Jordan has become a cultural icon, who has inspired generations with his competitiveness and desire to be great. However, one quality of Jordan that often goes under the radar is his generosity. Don’t be fooled by his larger-than-life persona; MJ is one of the most generous athletes out there. In fact, one of his recent philanthropic efforts left Kevin Durant completely in awe.
Michael Jordan and his mother, Deloris, recently unveiled their third clinic in their hometown of Wilmington, North Carolina. Their mission? To provide quality healthcare to those who are uninsured or underinsured, and others in need. What’s truly remarkable is that Jordan himself contributed a generous $10 million to make it happen. MJ’s philanthropic act caught Kevin Durant’s attention, who expressed his gratitude via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. He wrote, “2 goats who impacted the world. Much Love to the Jordans and everything they do!”
2 goats who impacted the world. Much Love to the Jordans and everything they do! https://t.co/ZKVRBlcXdy
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) May 10, 2024
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During an emotional address to the crowd that gathered for the opening, Michael Jordan outlined his clinic’s goals. He said, “It’s good to be home. That’s what this clinic is about. When the families aren’t able to support, we’re there to support. Don’t have any money, doesn’t matter. We gonna do whatever we can to support you.”
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Michael Jordan’s donation of $10 million also facilitated the creation of two more Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinics in Wilmington. In a public statement, MJ said, “I am confident Novant Health’s new clinic will positively impact individuals and families throughout Wilmington.”
Michael Jordan’s other philanthropic endeavors
After a successful NBA career and an even more successful business career, it’s safe to suggest that Michael Jordan is financially very well off. In 2023, Jordan became the first athlete to be named in Forbes’ list of 400 richest Americans after his net worth crossed a whopping $3 billion. However, instead of keeping his generational wealth, MJ has decided to donate a major chunk of it.
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Last year, on his 60th birthday, Michael Jordan made history after he donated $10 million to Make-A-Wish foundation. This sum was the largest donation ever in the organization’s 43-year history. Furthermore, he has also served as Make-A-Wish’s Chief Wish Ambassador since 2008.
Apart from his $10 million donation to Make-A-Wish, Michael Jordan also donated $2 million to relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Florence. Moreover, he donated $5 million to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2017. It’s safe to suggest that MJ is one of the most generous athletes around, and he has tried to make the world a better place for others.