Michael Jordan is no stranger to being the face of an NBA franchise. His first role cemented his legendary status as one of the greatest players of all time. After leaving the Chicago Bulls, MJ bought a minority stake with the Washington Wizards. However, he only embraced a complete change in his role in 2010 when His Airness became the owner of the Charlotte Hornets. His investment might have multiplied ten times over since, but there was another opportunity on the table much earlier. Notably, Jordan had his eyes set on buying the Milwaukee Bucks?in 2003.
After his ultimate retirement in Washington colors, the Bulls’ all-time leading scorer was in talks with a few NBA owners for a transfer of power. With the guidance of then NBA commissioner, David Stern, Jordan had a few teams on his radar. Notably, the Bucks, the Hornets, the Miami Heat, the Atlanta Hawks, and the San Antonio Spurs all had the chance of being led by one of the sport’s greatest winners. Amongst them, Jordan pushed in on Milwaukee. He even held talks with the ex-owner, Sen. Herb Kohl.
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However, the 87-year-old decided to keep his position as an owner due to one major reason. Kohl became doubtful with rumors of MJ planning on moving the team from Wisconsin. And Jordan’s potential plan possibly became the?reason he lost around $600 million today had he taken over the franchise.
How Michael Jordan could have won another NBA championship and made $600 million more
After Kohl decided to remain and grow the Bucks in Wisconsin, Jordan sought out the Charlotte Hornets. In news that made headlines, Jordan bought the franchise for $180 million. Since then, the six-time Finals MVP has managed to grow a rich culture within the organization. His initial stake has now surpassed the billion-dollar mark. Notably, the Hornets are one of his most-priced possessions, said to be worth about $1.7 billion today.
While his investment reeks of success, what Michael Jordan potentially lost is a much-needed distinction as an owner of an NBA championship-winning franchise.
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Kohl continued to own the Bucks until 2014 when he sold the franchise to Marc Lasry and Wes Edens. He sold the Milwaukee Bucks for a hefty $550 million and etched his name in Wisconsin’s Hall of Fame. A few years later, Milwaukee’s very own Greek god won them an NBA championship after half a century. Giannis Antetokoumpo‘s flurry of accolades shot the Bucks as an NBA powerhouse. According to Forbes, the franchise is reportedly worth around $2.3 billion.
It is left to wonder just how impressive Michael Jordan’s legacy would be if he bought the Milwaukee Bucks. In addition, his dynamic with the ‘Greek Freak’ might have become a dream duo.
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If Michael Jordan did buy the Milwaukee Bucks, do you think he would be the undisputed GOAT? Let us know your views in the comments below.