The Make-A-Wish Foundation announced Michael Jordan’s $10 million donation in honor of his 60th birthday on Feb. 17. Jordan’s donation is the largest the organization has received in 43 years.

As a businessman, athlete, and trailblazer, Jordan’s accomplishments transcend the game of basketball.

As a member of the Chicago Bulls franchise for 13 seasons, Jordan set a standard of excellence never seen before. Famously known as “Air Jordan” or “MJ,” Jordan was drafted third overall in the 1984 NBA draft pick by the Chicago Bulls. In his first year, Jordan was awarded Rookie of the Year for his spectacular performance during the 1984-1985 season. 

Jordan was born in Brooklyn, New York, and later moved to Wilmington, North Carolina with his family. While Jordan isn’t from Chicago originally, he is ingrained in Chicago culture. Under Jordan’s leadership, the Chicago Bulls won six NBA Championships. Just a few of his accomplishments include six-time NBA Finals MVP, 14-time NBA All-Star, and 10-time All-NBA First Team. 

“You can’t mention the Bulls without mentioning Michael Jordan,” said James Pruitt, a Chicago native and junior biology major at Howard University. 

“Obviously, you’re bound to support your home team regardless, but when your hometown has a strong legacy, there’s an even stronger incentive to support,” said Chicagoan Langston Johnson. 

While Jordan’s contributions to basketball are admirable, the Jordan brand is bigger than basketball.

During his rookie season, Nike signed a deal with Jordan that ultimately granted Nike a global audience. Prior to Jordan’s deal with Nike, Adidas, and Converse were the most popular sneakers among basketball players.

Today, Jordan's sneaker releases are some of the most anticipated releases in fashion and even remain popular among consumers born decades after his last title run.

Rajaa Sultanah believes the Jordan brand has become a staple in fashion.

“In recent years, the rise in streetwear fashion has made Jordan’s even more popular,” said Sultanah. 

Sultanah is the founder of the SNKHER Social Club, a sneaker community for female-identifying individuals. As a former athlete, Sultanah was inspired by the Jordan brand to create her own sneaker community during her senior year at Howard. 

“Sneakers create conversation,” said Sultanah. “I can say ‘I like your sneakers’ and now I’ve gained a friend and built a community.”

Jordan has become a cultural icon as a result of the Jordan brand. Jordan is frequently used by big businesses to win over customers. Jordan's controversial Gatorade commercial, "Be like Mike," is one of the most well-known sports advertisements ever to air and encouraged a generation of young people to adopt his fashion sense. Jordan's appearance in the popular 1990s animated film "Space Jam," which also includes Looney Tunes characters, is a career highlight that simultaneously makes people nostalgic and happy.

Howard University recently entered a 20-year partnership with the Jordan brand to elevate the athletic department and amplify collegiate sports at HBCUs.

A legend both on and off the court, Michael Jordan. Regardless of team affiliation, his impact on sports, fashion, and culture established a global society where people could unite and celebrate greatness.