Basketball players and athletes are bound to a fixed routine. They train, play, travel, and train again. Family time is limited which also results in missing birthdays, anniversaries, and other important events. Having said that, players try their best to be more present for their families. But in reality, being completely present comes after they quit or retire from the game. Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan went through the same and in an interview, his daughter, Jasmine Jordan, opened up about her relationship with her father.
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After having played ball in the league for 15 seasons, Michael Jordan finally retired from the game in 2003. During this time, his daughter Jasmine Jordan was 11 years old. The father-daughter duo was always close. However, following his retirement, things around the Jordan household changed. In an interview with the Chicago Tribune, Jasmine opened up about how her relationship with her father changed post his retirement.
Jasmine Jordan on how her relationship with her father changed
During his career, the six-time NBA Champion tried his best to be present in the lives of his three children. Jasmine, his daughter, recalled that her father would try to take her to school and attend events that she took part in. With that said, once Jordan retired, the family had to adapt to a new life.
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This wasn’t easy. Jasmine claimed that the father-daughter duo had to work towards building their relationship post-retirement. They focused on making their bond stronger. She said, “We definitely really worked hard and put forth that effort because obviously once you take something you love away from somebody, it?s that hole ? it?s a void.”
Jasmine is grateful that her father didn’t fill this void with some other sport or venture. Rather, he aimed to adjust. She revealed that Jordan’s efforts to adjust to this new life and change gears are the reason why the two are extremely close right now.
Michael Jordan retired 3 times from the game
Michael Jordan retired from the game thrice. His first retirement came in 1993 following the unfortunate demise of his father. However, the His Airness couldn’t be kept away from the game for long. In 1995, Jordan came out of retirement and continued to play for the Chicago Bulls.
Jordan’s second retirement prevailed in 1998 after he won the 6th championship with the Chicago Bulls. By this time, Jordan’s lifestyle was dominated by cameras and bodyguards. Following this restricted lifestyle, in ‘The Last Dance’ docuseries, he said, “I’m ready for getting out of his life. You know when you get to that point. With no reservations at all, I’m there.”
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However, the 6-time Finals MVP was not done with his on-court business. In 2001, Jordan made yet another comeback. But this time, he flaunted the Washington Wizards jersey. His tenure with the Wizard wasn’t what the world thought it would be. Injuries and soreness resulted in the Wizard failing to make the playoffs in the 2001-02 season. Subsequently, in the season after, Jordan announced his final retirement.
At the age of 40, Jordan closed the curtains on his illustrious career. He stated that not donning a basketball jersey ever again was an unpleasant feeling. He said, “It?s something that I?ve come to grips with, and it?s time. This is the final retirement.?
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