Considered as the greatest player in history by the greatest number, Michael Jordan has always refuted this title, in particular out of respect for his elders. But more surprisingly, MJ went much further when he spoke of… his brother.
6 Finals played, 6 rings, 6 MVP of the Finals: no need to insist on that or on the rest of the CV, everyone knows that Michael Jordan is probably the greatest player in history to walk an NBA floor. An inherent part of His Airness’ success is to be credited with its incredible competitive spirit, built from an early age alongside a certain Larry.
Not Larry Bird, no, but rather Larry Jordan, MJ’s big brother. Very gifted for the orange ball and star of his high school, Jojo’s brother has long dominated him during their inexhaustible one-on-one games. The Hall of Famer has kept a deep respect for Larry, as illustrated by this line at the end of the video below, in which the elder slams impressive dunks:
“When you say Air Jordan, I’m #2, he’s 1!”
MJ’s 5’8” brother, Larry Jordan, had serious hops! pic.twitter.com/seUsui1sIs
— Jumpman History (@HistoryJumpman) April 21, 2020
Michael Jordan: “When you talk about Air Jordan, I’m number 2. He’s number 1! “
In 1987, when MJ was already an established star in the league, he also made strong comments about Larry on a show:
My biggest influence on basketball was my brother Larry. He beat me all the time, even though I was taller than him.
Unfortunately for him, Larry never really grew up, and his small height around 70 meters prevented him from breaking into a basketball world that was then even more reserved for adults than it is now. A regret for Michael Jordan, who has often driven the point home with this phrase that has become cult, full of respect and tenderness:
If he was 1m90 or 1m95 tall, I would be known as “Larry Jordan’s brother”, not as Michael Jordan.
However, fate decided otherwise, and it is indeed Michael who carried the family colors infinitely high, under the benevolent gaze of his brother.
The Jordan family has a special DNA, so much so that 2 players had extraordinary talent. However, due to a growth spurt that never came, Larry had to content himself with following Michael’s prowess… Fortunately, he lived it well, and the two remain close to this day.
