Air Jordan heading to the Hall of Fame - Reminiscing Time

Add another notch in the legacy that is Michael Jordan.  Today the NBA unveiled the 2009 class of inductees to the hall of fame including such class acts as David Robinson and John Stockton.  The highlight of course is the induction of the greatest ever, Michael Jordan. 

It has been obvious for years that this day would come and while I didn't expect another Jordan comeback I have to say this is slightly bitter sweet.  The realization that this officially the end of an era and the book is pretty much fully closed is a bit saddening. 

If you don't want to read continued reminiscing on the man, the myth, the legend, feel free to head on out.  This is all Jordan from here on out.

I can remember the first Bulls game I ever watched back in '88 against the Cavs.  Not the famous "shot" game but a solid Jordan effort regardless.  I was at my grandparents house, only 9 at the time and lacking much NBA exposure.  I sat watching Jordan's silky smooth jumper and his attacks on the lane like he owned it and I was an nstant a fan.  That day was probably the key moment that led to basketball becoming my favorite sport to play and me playing in high school and beyond.  I may have never met the guy in person, only seen him play in person once, but I still feel this odd fan connection as were it not for him I may have never found an interest in basketball.

During the Bulls championship years I never missed a playoff game, not a single one.  I can remember watching the "a spectacular move" called by Marv Albert live, alone in the house when the family was out for dinner and being in complete awe of that layup vs. the Lakers. 



His first retirement was crushing.  While it may not have moved me to tears I had a profound reaction to something that really had no direct connection to my life.  The SI cover at right summed it up perfectly, "Why?".  I was pretty bummed out for a few weeks and some of my friends found it within themselves to actually give me **** about it; damn Pistons fans.

I will never forget "the shot" and that moment will forever be etched in my head.  The Jazz game in 1998, game six.  You just had that feeling that maybe it was the end at that point.  The story book return, the re-three-peat and the game winner.  While he did make a return via the Wizards, that was still a pretty amazing shot to wrap up his career in the red and black.

Say what you want but the league has not been the same since he left the Bulls and certainly not since he returned from the Wizards.  The "Air apparent" has been called out many times, from Grant Hill, Penny Hardaway, Vince Carter, Kobe, Lebron, but no one has come close.  Even with years of Kobe and Lebron to come ratings are still down, the league's image has changed for the worse and much of that magic from the Jordan/Bird/Magic era has dissipated. 

I have the Ultimate Jordan dvd collection and it is a must own for any fan of his airness.  I like to pop it in from time to time to reminisce, admire and just be in awe of his level of play and dedication.  Few players have had the competitive edge and drive that he did to always be the best. 

I just wanted to share some Jordan memories and thoughts and if anyone wants to contribute, fans or not, feel free.  There have only been a few athletes ever at this level, Ali, Pele, Gretzky, Tiger, but Jordan will always be number one in this guy's book.

Thanks for all the memories MJ, it was an amazing run.