Shaq once said “You don’t mess with God” when asked who he would not trash talk to on the court. That being said, the God, Michael Jordan knew exactly what his status was in the game. While talking about Clyde Drexler he said “I’m not saying he wasn’t a threat but me being compared to him, I took offense to that.” With an aura so demanding of attention, Michael Jordan has penned down numerous meaningful and motivational quotes.

With MJ being His Airness, it is common that from time to time, his quotes appear as another person’s inspiration. The admirer of one of his quotes this time is La La Anthony. The TV personality and Hollywood actress. But she’s not an unfamiliar name in the basketball world, is she? She was once the ‘First Lady of the NBA’. And guess what? She just received an award at the NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.

JUMP’s ‘Entertainment and Social Justice Changemaker’ award for this year goes to the former Knicks’ ex-wife. It is in recognition of her project ‘ThreeSixty’ under her foundation. The initiative provides mentorship and guidance to estranged young men through recreational activities including basketball. Totally deserving of the accolade! Won’t you say? She showed her appreciation via a series of her Instagram stories. One story particularly caught everyone’s eye. That’s right! It’s a symbolic quote by Michael Jordan. Repeating the quotes verbatim,

“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” An excerpt from MJ’s book ‘Driven from Within’. And yes, MJ is also an author! Indeed, a multifaceted icon.

Besides being Carmelo Anthony‘s ex-spouse, La La’s close association with basketball can be attributed to their son, Kiyan Anthony. Recently, Kiyan has decided to continue his father’s legacy and joined his father’s alma mater Syracuse. The 17-year-old shooting guard is among the top 40 recruits of the class of 2025. Perhaps, the prodigiousness runs in their veins. And of course, his star parents’ pride and support add to it.

In terms of endorsements, he also wishes to sign with the Jordan brand just like Melo did. Looking back, MJ gifted an exclusive pair to the father-son duo when Kiyan was 7. Lucky him! But it is expected of the GOAT! Apart from his mind-blowing court skills, MJ is known for his generosity and resilience.

Why is Michael Jordan considered the epitome of perseverance?

Michael Jordan’s popularity in the world transcends NBA and basketball.  A basketball legend, a cultural icon, a philanthropist. You name it. To say the least, the word MJ is synonymous with basketball and sneakers. A true global sensation!

MJ’s influence isn’t just limited to his acrobatic drives and dunks. He represents determination, hard work, and talent. Embracing failure as part of his journey, he said, “I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. but I can’t accept not trying.” Despite all the odds, he worked hard to be in his current position.

The Chicago Bulls’ legend completely changed the trajectory of how common people perceive basketball. He is the living embodiment of greatness that results from never backing down. Unquestionably, a story for the history books!