?Michael Jordan Becomes Vanilla?: Biggest Criticism Did Not Faze the Bulls GOAT in the Slightest Despite Media Attacks

Michael Jordan is known for giving it all to get a taste of victory. The six-time All-Star never held back on the basketball court, making him arguably the greatest of all time. His fierceness and consistency allowed him to influence the NBA like no other athlete in history. However, Michael Jordan often faced media attacks during his NBA days for not speaking out on the issues that mattered. Jordan often refrained from passing his opinion on any controversial issues, which made the media question his attitude.

As per the ESPN Sportscentury’s episode featuring Michael Jordan from December 1999, the Chicago Bulls legend attracted a lot of negative attention for avoiding ‘hot-button issues.’ Jordan kept himself away from political situations and controversial scenarios, which were often brought to attention by the media.

The media attacked Michael Jordan

Once, Jordan refused to endorse African-American Democrat Harvey Gantt during the 1990 Senate election race against the White Conservative representative Jesse Helms in North Carolina. MJ received a lot of backlash for his move. The controversy further accentuated by his comment, ‘Republicans buy sneakers too.’

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Moreover, Nike received a great deal of criticism for improper labor practices during the 1998 season. Michael Jordan was the face of Nike in the country at the time. So, the 14-time All-Star promised to take a look at the factories in question personally after the playoffs.

However, MJ was questioned for making no effort to keep his promises. Experts advocated that all the questionable practices by Nike could have been ended immediately if Jordan had taken a firm stand.?

Schaap made a bold comment about Jordan

ESPN sportswriter Dick Schaap summed up Jordan’s attitude off the field during the 1999 episode. Schaap said, “On the basketball court, you see Michael Jordan, and he doesn’t hold anything back. But, as soon as he gets off the court, of all things, Michael Jordan becomes vanilla. He’s raised blandness to an art.”

Jordan received a great deal of media criticism for his lack of personal concerns about important matters concerning the public. However, MJ is more than an athlete. He created a brand around himself that has profusely helped the NBA.?

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MJ had decided not to faze the slightest despite being constantly attacked by the media for his moderate stance on things. What is your opinion on Jordan’s ‘vanilla’ approach to things? Let us know in the comments below.