Today we bring you the ultimate Hall of Fame Speech from the great Michael Jordan, back in 2009.
As a 80s baby, for me Michael was always an idol and someone I would emulate, not just in basketball but in every aspect of life.
Because MJ achievements on the court and off the court represented nothing short than excellence and success.
So results where a no-question, but what about the process? There was no social media back then... so we knew nothing about what was happening behind close doors.
How was Michael Jordan mindset and competitive mentality? How did he manage to achieve all those things, besides his talent? What and how did he worked that hard?
Prior to the Last Dance documentary, Michael Jordan's 2009 HOF Speech answered many of this questions!
- For those that didn't Michael Jordan's personality this speech caused a lot of shock, criticism and controversy.
- But for those that knew him, this speech was just a ramification of who Michael Jordan really is.
Instead of just cruising to his career highlights and thanking the ones evolved, Michael went a few steps forward....
- He made sure to let us know what was inside his competitive mind, in each and every of those moments.
- Not only that, but ironically, he made sure that he thanked his rivals and opponents for all the motivation they gave them along the way.
Some of the stories people dazzled about from The Last Dance documentary are told in this speech, if you love the documentary and fell in love with the mindset of a winner, you'll love this speech.
So, be prepared because what MJ did at his Hall of Fame Induction was both legendary and controversial at same the time.
Here's Michael Jordan Hall of Fame Speech video below, with full transcript, divided in 23 highlights, historical context of some of the claims and our analysis of Michael Jordan's competiveness and mindset.
Time to "take it personal" and let His Airness motivate you today!
Michael Jordan Hall of Fame Speech
1. Intro Statements
Thank you. Thank you.
I told all my friends I was just gonna come up here and say ‘thank you’ and walk off. I can’t. There’s no way. I got too many people I gotta thank.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: Michael starts the speech with a little joke that serves as a preview for a contrast of personalities that will build this speech:
- His public perceived character: a determined perfectionist and competitive savvy, that seems ungrateful.
- His media persona: a friendly and likable guy, when it comes down to talk about life lessons and basketball.
So if you really know Michael Jordan, you know... he will thank all the people he has to: friends, family but also his rivals!
2. Thanking Scottie Pippen
In all the videos, you never just saw me; you saw Scottie Pippen. Every Championship I won.
3. Explaining David Thompson as his Hall of Fame Presenter
I’ve had a lot of questions over the last four weeks, and everybody’s saying well ‘why’d you pick David Thompson?’
I know why, and David knows why, and maybe you guys don’t know why, but as I grew up in North Carolina, I was 11 years old in 1974 I think when you guys won the championship. And uh, I was an anti-Carolina guy - I hated UNC, and here I ended up at UNC.
But I was in love with David Thompson. Not just for the game of basketball, but in terms of what he represented. You know, we all - as Vivienne say...or said - we go through our trials and tribulations. And, he did. And I was inspired by him.
And when I called him and asked him to uh, stand up for me, I know I shocked the shit outta him! I know I did. But…he was very kind and said ‘yea, I do it.’
Historical context: The David Thompson selection, was a little controversial, First because it's a unknown person to the average fan (so many others he could pick from...). But mainly, because Michael played for the University of North Carolina in college, and previously David played for the rival North Carolina State, so this selection was very unexpected. But Michael explained it perfectly.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: David Thompson was one of Michael references growing up in North Carolina, not only for his acrobatic "sky walker" plays and basketball skills, but also by his career struggles and challenges.
So, by selecting David Thompson, Michael simply pays homage to player that inspired him in his younger days. Ironically, Michael went to play for the rival team in North Carolina and made his name there.
In our opinion, the selection of David Thompson as a presenter was a bold and respectful move by Michael, that shows how important was for him, to pay a special tribute to his youth idol, even if that meant to disappoint some hardcore UNC fans or the status quo.
4. ... Thanking North Carolina Guys
And that wasn’t out of disrespect to any of my Carolina guys - they all know I’m a true blue Carolina guy to the heart. Coach Smith, Larry Brown, Sam Perkins, James Worthy - you know, all of those guys.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: Michael balances the David Thompson selection, by acknowledging some of his UNC guys, by naming them and give them praise. Showing he doesn't forget where he came from.
5. Praising Hall of Fame Class and Bringing Context to The Speech
Well it all starts with my parents - you guys see all the highlights; what is it about me that you guys don’t know?
Uh, as I sat up here and watch all the other recipients stand up here and they give the history;
There’s so many things I didn’t know about Jerry Sloan. I know he lived on a farm, but I didn’t know he was in a small classroom from the first grade to the eighth grade.
Even David Robinson - obviously I’ve known David for some time and you know, I’ve found some things out about him,
And even with John I found some bad things - or good things out about him.
And even Viv - Viv, I’ve known Viv for years. Her and my father, and my Mom, spent a lot of time on the Nike trips and I found out a lot of good things about her, but what about me that you guys don’t know?
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: Theses words are very clever by Michael, people didn't knew at this point they were heading for a treat...
So the best way to put it, is to make a quick summary of the speeches from the previous inductees, paying them the traditional respect, but also connecting their stories with what he his about to say.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: With his intervention, Michael builds rapport and publicly shows respect to his Hall of Fame Class, at the same time, he somewhat justifies his speech content.
6. Presenting is Brothers and The Start of Competitive Spirit
I got two brothers - James and Larry - they’re 5’4″, 5’5″ in height. They gave me all I could ever ask for as a brother in terms of competition.
You know you would think - my brother Larry is an ideal situation where small things come in small packages; this dude fought me every single day.
And to the extent that my mother used to come out and make us come in because we were fighting way too much.
And my older brother was always gone - he served in the Army for 31 years.
Historical context: Has Michael once joked about his height, "I'm the tallest. My father's about 5'10 my mother's about 5'5, everyone else's about 5'6.5, 5'7. The milkman's about 6'7.", In fact, Michael Jordan's growing spurt was spectacular and part of the mythical aura around his airness. From his body, to his length, passing to his big hands and ending in his athletic abilities, Michael Jordan physical greatness seems divine, and judging by his family physical attributes, it really might be!
It's a well known fact that, Michael Jordan first battles on the court started in the backyard of his house, playing against his older brother. Every day the Jordan's would push around each other, and of course, the younger one (Michael) would lose most of the times to the older one (Larry). When Michael made it to the NBA, there was a commercial where he stated regarding his brother Larry dunks "...Air Jordan? I'm number 2, He's number 1! ". Testimony the awesome skills of the short Larry Jordan in this video.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: The games against his brother Larry, would push Michael Jordan to be better and improve every day at the game of basketball. Imagine every day having to go against a competition that's better than you? Dis-encouraging? Perhaps... but not to a mind that's committed to constantly look for ways to improve. That's exactly how Michael took this challenge, and that made him better and better, every day.
7. Where did His Competitive Nature Came From?
And the competition didn’t stop there - my sister, who is one year younger than me, Raz, never wanted to be home by herself.
She took classes - extra classes to graduate from High School with me, to go to University of North Carolina with me, and to graduate - prior - than me.
And you guys sit there asking where is my competition or where did my competitive nature come from? It came from them. It came from my older sister, who’s not here today.
And my father, who’s not here today - obviously he’s with us in all of us.
I mean my competitive nature has gone a long way from the first time I picked up any sport - baseball, football, ran track, basketball - anything to miss class, I played it.
So they started the fire in me - that fire started with my parents. And as I moved on in my career people added wood to that fire.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: Where it all started for Michael Jordan in terms of competition? There you have it... inside his household and within his family!
8. Praising Coach Dean Smith (North Carolina)
Coach Smith, you know what else can I say about him? (applause) You know, he’s legendary in the game of coaching.
Historical context: Coach Dean Smith coached for 36 years the University of North Carolina and was instrumental in the careers of many NBA players. Of course, Michael Jordan is included in that list. In 1982 Dean Smith won his first National Championship, guess who hit the game wining shot? Yup that guy, Michael (by that time known as... Mike) Jordan.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words:
This statement is short, because Michael has always praised Coach Smith in many of his public statements, appearances and public ceremonies.
9. Leroy Smith Story - Being Cut From High-school Team reference
And then there’s Leroy Smith. Now you guys think that’s a myth. Leroy Smith was a guy when I got cut he made the team - on the Varsity team - and he’s here tonight.
He’s still the same 6’7″ guy - he’s not any bigger - probably his game is about the same.
But he started the whole process with me, because when he made the team and I didn’t
I wanted to prove not just to Leroy Smith, not just to myself, but to the coach that picked Leroy over me, I wanted to make sure you understood
- You made a mistake dude!
Historical context: People think this a urban legend. Michael makes sure people know it isn't. Michael Jordan was really cut from his high school team! In fact, what happen was, Michael didn't made the varsity team because he was still short (5'11'), the guy that took his spot was 6'7' Leroy Smith. So, Michael took that to heart, the answer he gave to this huge setback, was going back to the gym and work on his game. He improved and also grew 4 more inches, one year later he was selected for the varsity team.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Being rejected was a huge blow for Michael, but it was also a motivation for him to improve and get better. It gave him a drive and mission, to prove to the ones who doubted him that he could do it and be part of the team. The fact that Michael Jordan still remembers this episode, and still takes a bit at the coach that made the selection, just shows you how meaningful and life changing this event was. When we talk about Michael Jordan's mentality and competitiveness, we must never forget that he suffered a lot before he was successful, and, he has the scares to prove it.
10. Buzz Peterson Story & More Wood To Competitive Fire
And then there’s Buzz Peterson, my roommate. Now when I first met Buzz - all I heard about was this kid from Ashville, North Carolina who’s player of the year.
I’m thinking, ‘well he ain’t never played against me yet, so how did he become Player of the Year?’ Is that some type of media exposure?
You know I came from Wimbleton; you know we had two channels, channel ABC and channel NBC, that was it. I never saw NBA sports at all when I grew up; we didn’t have CBS affiliation in North Carolina in Wimbleton.
So Buzz Peterson became a dot on my board. And when I got the chance to meet Buzz Peterson on the basketball court or in person - Buzz was a great person, it wasn’t a fault of his.
It was just that my competitive nature - I didn’t think that he could beat me, or he was better than me as a basketball player.
And he became my roommate. And from that point on, he became a vocal point - not knowingly; he didn’t know it - but he did.
And Coach Smith, the day that he was on the Sports Illustrated and he named four starters and he didn’t name me - that burned me up!
Because I thought I belonged on that Sports Illustrated.
Now he had his own vision about giving a Freshman that exposure, and I totally understand that, but from a basketball sense I deserved to be on that Sports Illustrated, and he understand that.
Historical context: You can see here the Sports Illustrated cover where Michael Jordan is not featured in the North Carolina starters. You can see coach Dean Smith, Sam Perkins, Matt Doherty, Jimmy Black and James Worthy. Some where great NBA players, some not, but none (of course) were great like Michael Jordan. Fast forward, throughout his career Michael Jordan was featured in 50 Sports Illustrated covers.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: When you find competition in your own roommate, what can you say?
When you find competition in a magazine cover? But let's not get it twisted, it was the biggest sports magazine at the time, and his teammates were featured Michael was not.
James Worthy publicly has stated that he "was better that Michael at North Carolina, for about... 3 weeks..". So Michael got better and was better for the rest of the time, so imagine not being called for the magazine cover shot?
Michael was still a young freshman, but he felt he deserved it and that was a big opportunity for exposure.
The opportunity was denied to him? What did he do? Used this episode for more motivation, another wood on that competitive fire. He worked hard to make sure that he was never left out, and if you know your NBA history... Michael Jordan became a global phenom, huge in every sports cover you can imagine and beyond.
11. Entering the NBA: Competing with Chicago Bulls Organization
And it didn’t stop there. You know, my competitive nature went right into the pros; I get to the Bulls, which I was very proud that - at the time Jerry Reinsford didn't own the team. It was another organization.
And Rob Thorn drafted me. Kevin Loughery was my first coach. Kevin used to take practices and put me in the starting five, and he’d make it a competitive thing where the losing team would have to run.
So now I’m on the winning team, and half way in the game, half way in the situation, he would switch me to the losing team.
So I take that as a competitive thing of you trying to test me - and 9 times out of 10 the second team would come back and win no matter what he did.
So I appreciate Kevin Lockey for giving me that challenge - you know providing that type of fire within me; he threw another log on that fire for me.
Historical context: This is self-explanatory, but it's good not to forget that Michael was only the 3rd pick in the 1984 NBA draft, behind 1st pick Hakeem Olajuwon (Houston) and the infamous 2nd pick Sam Bowie that Portland still regrets to this day. So the Chicago Bulls didn't waste the opportunity and Michael mentions with pride the choice they made.
The Bulls weren't a good team at the time, so talent was needed. Not only that, but a talent development format and basically that's what coach Kevin Lockey did by putting Michael in uncomfortable practice situations.
Despite being drafted n⁰ 3 overall, Michael won the Rookie of the Year award.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: It's curious to see how Michael handle pressure or uncomfortable situations: by keeping to push the envelop and embracing those challenges. Some of us would just complain about it or give up. But he really wanted to surpass his limits, and being on a practice where the coach purposevly kept changing him to the losing team, made his day.
12. Jerry Reinsdorf Relationship and the Headache 10 Tablets Story
Jerry Reinsdorf - I mean what else can I say? The next year I came back, I broke my foot and I was out for 65 games.
And when I came back I wanted to play; you know he and the doctor’s came up with this whole theory that you can only play 7 minutes a game, but I’m practicing 2 hours a day.
I’m saying ‘well, I don’t think - I don’t agree with that math, you know?’
And back then it was about whoever had the worst record got the most balls and the ping pong balls and you know you can decide what pick you’re gonna have, but I didn’t care about that, I just wanted to win.
I wanted to make the playoffs. You know, I wanted to keep that energy going in Chicago.
So I had to go in his office, and sit down with him and say ‘Jerry, you know I feel like I should play more than 14 minutes, I’ve been practicing 2 hours.’
And he said ‘MJ, I think I have to protect the long term investment that we’ve invested in you.’
And I said ‘Jerry, I, I really think I should be able to play.’
And he said ‘let me ask you this, if you had a headache?’ And you know at that time it was about 10% chance that I could re-injure my ankle or my foot.
And he said ‘if you had a headache and you got 10 tablets and one of them is coated with cyanide, would you take the tablet?’
And I looked at him and I said ‘how bad is the headache? depend on how bad the headache.’
Jerry looked at me and he said ‘Yeah ok I guess that’s a good answer, you can go back and play’. And he let me go back and play.
Historical context: After the rookie season Michael broke his foot in the early stages of the next season. If you know NBA medical protocols you know this means season is over. But for a competitive mind like Michael's, recovery was a fast process and he recovered in time to finish the season. But medical protocols and strategic decisions from the organization, were slowing him down. He eventually convinced them that he could play.
One critical aspect of this recovery is that, Michael went back to Chappel Hill in North Carolina for the rehabilitation process. Of course with permission from the Bulls, but this meant Michael wasn't around a lot, so people in Chicago assumed the usual recovery time and didn't saw his daily progress.
In this season (1985-1986), with Michael returning to play, the Bulls still made it to the playoffs, but were sweept in the first round by the legendary Boston Celtics. It was in this series that, Michael scored 63 points against Larry Bird's Celtics. Impressively, still stands today as Playoffs scoring record and it originate Bird's famous quote "God disguised as Michael Jordan".
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: After a fast, but balanced recovery process, Michael knew he was ok to play. He trusted his gut and hard work, so when the owner Jerry Reinsdorf confront him about the dangers of being re-injured, he had nothing to fear. Full of confidence and ambition Michael just wanted to compete and get the Bulls in the playoff picture.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: As Michael explained, he wanted to keep that Playoff energy in Chicago. So giving up and losing the season was out of the equation. To win consistently and to be successful, we winning mentality is much needed. So losing on purpose it's surely not the way to do it.
13. Thanking Bulls, Teammates and Doug Collins Special Relationship
You know, Jerry provided a lot of different obstacles for me, but at the same time the guy gave me an opportunity to perform at the highest level in terms of basketball, and the Bulls - the whole Bulls organization did a great justice for me and all of my teammates.
Believe me I had a lot of teammates over the 14 years that I played for the Bulls. You know I respected each and every one of them, I just wanted to win. You know, it’s how you want to look at it.
And then along came Doug Collins who was caught in the whole midst of this Jerry Krause and Jerry Reinsdorf.
And, at the same time, you know when I was trying to play in the summertime, he said ‘well, you’re a part of the organization and the organization said you can’t play in the summertime’ and I said ‘Doug, you haven’t read the fine print in my contract.
In my contract I have the ‘love the game clause’ that means I can play anytime I want, any place I want.’
And Doug looked at me and said ‘yea, you’re right, you’re right.’ And that’s how we became a little closer in terms of Doug Collins and myself.
Historical context: Doug Collins was very important in Michael's career, despite not winning a NBA title with him, he was instrumental in the individual development of Michael as an NBA superstar. In those years Michael won almost very individual trophy a player dreams about: NBA MVP and Defensive Player of the Year awards, the NBA All-Star Game MVP, and the Slam Dunk Championship.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: The "Love of the Game Clause", how about that? You thought it was all about being selfish and winning? Nop, passion was the drive to Michael Jordan's game and willigness to win. He truly love the game of basketball, that's one of the reasons why he excel at it.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: If you saw the Last Dance Documentary you know that Michael's relation with his teamates trough the years was a bit harsh, but neverthenless he said it best here and in the documentary: "I just wanted to win". So winning was ahead of anything, even if that means relationships are hurt by that competitive drive. But Michael's ideal was to put every teamate in a high performance state, by pushing them to be as intense as he was, but you know... people aren't all alike, so some were thankfull others were still hurt to this day by some of his words our behaviours. But we can look it also as, some had a winning mentality others didn't, Michael as a leader had to take over.
14. Correcting Jerry Krause's "Organization Wins Championships" Statement
And Jerry Krause is right there, and Jerry is not here - I mean obviously, I don’t know who invited him, I didn’t, but uh. I hope he understands, I hope he understands it goes a long way, and he was a very competitive person and I was a very competitive person.
He said ‘organizations win championships’.
I said ‘I didn’t see organizations playing with the Flu in Utah.
I didn’t see them playing with a bad ankle.’
Granted, I think organizations put together teams, but at the end of the day, the team has to go out and play.
You know, so in essence, I think the players win the championship, and the organization has something to do with it - don’t get me wrong.
But don’t try to put the organization above the players, because at the end of the day the players still got to go out there and perform. You guys gotta pay us, but I still gotta go out and play.
Historical context: Jerry Krause and the Bulls players never had a pacific relationship despite winning multiple championships. There was always constant pickardy and jokes from either side. In the last years of this relationship, Jerry seen to be fed up, this was also the main reason why the Bulls dynasty break up and eventually, led to Krause's not being invited to Jordan's HOF Induction.
In the tumultuous start of the 1997-1998 season, Scottie Pippen was on a contrat disput refusing to train, coach Phil Jackson was warned by the management this would be his last year has Bulls head coach (therefore, The Last Dance) and Dennis Rodman was entertained with outside activities.
So, team manager Jerry Krause said this famous quote: "Players and coaches don't win championships, organizations do".
In a clear refeence that the background work that people don't see, it's more important than what tv shows. But also, a resentment about not being recognized for the ball club achievements, unlike Michael, Scottie, Dennis or Phil.
Jerry Krause wanted the spolight he thought he deserved. Back in 1997, Jordan did reply to this comments with the quote: "I didn't see the organization playing sick last year,", In a clear reference to his historical performance in game 5 in the 1997 NBA Finals against Utah, the legendary "Flu Game". So, Michael reinstates his position at the 2009 speech, showing he doesn’t forget.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Michael stood his ground in 97 and did it again in 2009 at the HOF. Showing that Jerry Krause jabs were unfair and that their relationship was never the same.
Michael doesn't forget nor forgive Jerry, and, it hurt him that Jerry Krause could be that selfish.
15. Message to His Kids and The Burden they have to face
Obviously, you see my kids - Jeffrey, Marcus, Jasmine - I love you guys. I think you guys represent a lot of me; a lot of different personalities. Your Mom, you represent them as well.
You know I think that you guys have a heavy burden. I wouldn’t want to be you guys if I had to, because of all the expectations that you have to deal with.
I mean look around you, they’re charging $1000 tickets for this whole event. It used to be 200 bucks.
But I paid it, you know, I had no choice. I had a lot of family, a lot of friends I had to bring in… so thank you Hall of Fame for raising ticket prices, I guess.
But you guys - I love you guys - you guys, just so you know, you got a whole host of people supporting you; family, friends, people that you don’t know. Relatives coming out of the woodwork, you know, no matter how you look at it.
But I think we taught you right - your Mom and I - and hopefully you can make the right decision when the time comes.
Historical context: Michael's children, Jeffrey, Marcus and Jasmine, were growing up under an enormous amount of public attention. Being Michael Jordan's children meant that expectations were going to follow them wherever they went, particularly because their father had become one of the most recognizable athletes in the world. Jordan was not simply talking about fame, but about the pressure of carrying a family name that had become synonymous with excellence.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: This is one of the more vulnerable moments of the speech because Michael isn't talking about himself as a basketball player anymore. He's talking as a father. He recognizes something that many people looking at successful families don't see: greatness can become a burden for the next generation.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Your achievements can inspire the people who come after you, but they can also create expectations they never asked for. Michael's message to his children was essentially: you don't have to become me. They had their own personalities and their own decisions to make.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: Interestingly, Michael doesn't tell his children that they need to compete with him, and I love it! Instead, he tells them that they have a support system around them and that they need to make the right decisions. That's a different side of competitiveness: knowing when the battle is no longer about proving yourself, but about helping the next generation find its own path.
16. Special Message to His Mom Deloris Jordan
My Mom, what else can I say about my Mom. My Mom never stays still. You think I’m busy? She’s always on the go. And without her - she’s a rock - she’s unbelievable. Right now she takes over two jobs. (applause) She’s an unbelievable woman.
If I’ve got anybody that’s nagging me each and every day, it is her. And she constantly keeps me focused on the good things about life - you know how people perceive you, how you respect them, you know what’s good for the kids, what’s good for you. How you are perceived publicly, take a pause and think about the things that you do.
And that all came from my parents, you know it came from my Mom. And she still at this stage - I’m 46 years old - she’s still parenting me today. And that’s the good thing about that lady, I love her to death. I love her to death.
Historical context: Michael's mother Dolores Jordan was one of the strongest influences in his life, and here we see a different side of their relationship. Even at 46 years old, Michael says she was still parenting him and keeping him focused on the important things in life.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: This is one of those moments where we see Michael beyond basketball. Behind the competitor, the championships and the fame, there was still a son listening to his mother. If you saw the movie "Air" you know the importance of Dolores in Michael's rise in the business world. And honestly, I love this because it reminds us that becoming successful doesn't mean you stop needing people who keep you grounded.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Stay humble enough to listen to the people who truly care about you.
Honor your parents, even the great Michael Jordan needed someone to keep him grounded.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: His competitiveness made him better on the court, but his family helped make sure that success didn't change the person underneath.
Success Lesson: You need fire to push you forward, but you also need people who keep you grounded.
17. Thanking His Rivals... Rookie Season Freeze Out at All Star Game
And I’m going to thank a couple people that you guys probably wouldn’t even think that I would thank. Isiah Thomas, Magic Johnson, George Gervin - now they say it was a so-called ‘freeze out’ in my rookie season.
I wouldn’t have never guessed, but you guys gave me the motivation to say ‘you know what, evidently I haven’t proved enough to these guys. I gotta prove to them that I deserve what I’ve gotten on this level’.
And no matter what people may have said - if it was a rumor, I never took it as truth - but you guys never froze me out, because I was just happy to be there, no matter how you look at it.
And from that point forward I wanted to prove to you, Magic, Larry, George, everybody - that I deserved to be on this level just as much as everybody else.
And hopefully over the period of my career I’ve done that, without a doubt - you know even in the Detroit years, we’ve done that.
Historical context: The so-called "freeze out" of Michael Jordan during the 1985 All-Star Game became one of the stories surrounding his early relationship with NBA veterans. Supposedly, experienced NBA players participating in the All Star Game, made an arragement of not passing the ball to a young rising rookie that could outshine them. Of course, Jordan himself was careful to say he never treated the rumor as fact, but he still used the situation as motivation.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: This is classic Jordan. He doesn't even need to know whether the story was true. If something made him feel like he hadn't earned his place, he simply used it as another reason to work harder.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Don't waste energy proving people wrong. Use their doubt as energy to prove yourself right.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: Jordan didn't see rejection as a reason to complain. He saw it as another challenge.
Success Lesson: Sometimes the fastest way to improve is to feel like you still have something to prove.
18. Thanking His Rivals... Pat Riley Hawaii Story & Jeff VanGundy Conman Comments
Pat Riley. I mean, you and I, we go way back. I still remember in Hawaii - you remember in Hawaii, you and I - I was coming in and you were I guess leaving and you decided to stay a couple extra days, but you were in my suite.
And they came and they told you you had to get out of my suite.
And you slid a note underneath my door - although you had to move; you did move - you slid a note, saying: ‘I enjoyed the competition, congratulations. But we will meet again.’
And I took the heart in that because I think in all honesty you’re just as competitive as I am, even from a coaching stand point.
And you challenged me every time I played the Knicks, the Heat - and I don’t think you were with the Lakers - but anytime I played against you, you had Jordan-Stoppers on your team, you had John Starks who I loved.
You even had my friend Charles Oakley saying ‘we can’t go to lunch, we can’t go to dinner, because Pat doesn’t believe in fraternizing between the two of us.’ And this guy hit me harder than anybody else in the league and he was my best friend.
Patrick Ewing - we had the same agent, we came at the same time, but we can’t go to lunch.
Why is this? You think I’m gonna play against Patrick any different than I play against anybody else? Nah, nah.
And then you had your little guy, who was on your staff, who became the next coach after you - Jeff VanGundy.
He said I conned the players, I befriended them and then I attacked them on the basketball court.
Where did that come from? I just so happen to be a friendly guy. I get along with everybody, but at the same time when the light comes on I’m just as competitive as anybody you know.
So you guys I have to say thank you very much for that motivation that I desperately needed.
Success Lesson: Transform the obstacles in your way into fire
Historical context: Pat Riley was one of Jordan's biggest coaching rivals during the Bulls' championship years, especially through the Knicks and Heat. Jeff Van Gundy was also part of that competitive environment and famously questioned Jordan's friendly relationship with opposing players.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: What I love about this part is that Jordan doesn't only thank the people who helped him. He thanks the people who made his life harder. That's a completely different way of looking at competition!
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Jordan shows appreciation for the challenges posed by Pat Riley and his teams. Despite the competition, Jordan respects Riley's competitiveness. Ironically he draws motivation from Riley's strategies, defensive players, and the competitive atmosphere he created. He also got motivated by the criticism from Jeff Van Gundy, denying the accusation of deception and emphasizing his friendly nature off the court. Ultimately, Jordan thanks them for the motivation they provided, showcasing his resilience and determination to succeed
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: For Michael, competition wasn't something to escape, it was exactly what he needed! The harder the opponent, the more reasons he had to become better.
Success Lesson: Don't wish for easier competition, become better because of it.
19. Addressing Phil Jackson Importance & Tex Winter "I" in Win Story
Phil Jackson. Phil Jackson is a... to me, he’s a professional Dean Smith. He challenged me mentally, not just physically. You know, he understood the game, along with Tex Winter. They taught me a lot about the basketball game .
Tex being the specialist - you know I could never please Tex. And I love Tex. Tex is not here, but I know he’s here in spirit.
I can remember a game coming off the basketball court, and we were down, I don’t know 5-10 points, and I go off for about 25 points and we come back and win the game.
And we’re walking off the floor and Tex look at me and says ‘you know, there’s no ‘i’ in team’.
And I said ‘Tex, there’s not, there’s not an ‘i’ in team, but there’s an ‘i’ in win!’.
I think he got my message: I’ll do anything to win.
You know, if that means we play team format, we win.
If that means I have to do whatever I have to do, we gonna win no matter how you look at it.
Historical context: Phil Jackson became Jordan's coach for the second half of the Bulls dynasty, while Tex Winter was the architect of the Triangle Offense. Both challenged Michael in different ways, not simply physically but mentally and tactically.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: The interesting part is that Michael doesn't describe these men as people who simply made his job easier. They challenged him! And that's exactly what he valued.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Great coaches don't always tell you what you want to hear. Sometimes they challenge you because they know you can become better.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: That famous "I" in win line perfectly summarizes Jordan's mentality. Teamwork mattered, but if the team format didn't work... Michael feel the obligation to be the person who could change the game when it mattered most. Whether team or individual format, the important thing was to win.
Success Lesson: Be a team player, but never be afraid of responsibility, if things don't work as a team you need to step up.
20. Thanking his Rivals... Critics, Journalists and Media Personalities
And then we had all those media nay-sayers. Oh ‘scoring champion can’t win an NBA title.’ Or ‘you’re not as good as Magic Johnson, you’re not as good as Larry Bird - you’re good, but you’re not as good as those guys.’
You know, I had to listen to all of this - and that put so much wool on that fire that it kept me - each and everyday, trying to get better as a basketball player.
Now I’m not saying that they were wrong - I may have looked at it from a different perspective.
But at the same time, as a basketball player I’m trying to become the best that I can, you know, and for someone like me who achieved a lot over the course of my career you look for any kind of messages that people may say or do to get you motivated to play the game of basketball at the highest level, because that is when I feel like i excel at my best.
Historical context: Throughout his career, Jordan was constantly compared with Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, while critics questioned whether his individual brilliance could translate into championships. Those comparisons became another source of motivation for him
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: Again, Jordan's reaction wasn't to complain about the critics. He listened, he remembered and then he went back to work. This is probably one of the biggest themes of the entire speech.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: You don't have to agree with criticism to use it. Take whatever helps you improve and leave the rest behind.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: Jordan turned words into fuel, every doubt became another reason to work.
Success Lesson: Don't let criticism destroy your confidence. Let it sharpen your determination.
21. Thanking His Rivals... The Bryon Russel Story
And my last example of that - and the last one that you guys have probably seen - I hate to do it to him, but - he’s such a nice guy and uh.
When I first met Bryon Russell - John and Karl should remember this - I was in Chicago in 1994. I was working out for baseball, and they came down for a workout and shoot-around and I came over to say hello.
And at this time I had no thoughts of coming back and playing the game of basketball, and Bryon Russell came over to me and said ‘you know what man, why’d you quit? Why’d you quit? You know I could guard you. If I ever see you in a pair of shorts. If I ever see you in a pair of shorts.’
You remember this John?
So when I did decide to come back in 1995, and then we played Utah in ’96, I’m at the Center Circle and Bryon Russell is sitting next to me and I look over at Bryon and I said ‘do you remember this conversation you made in 1994, or when you ‘I think I can guard you, I can shut you down, and I would love to play against you.’
‘Well you about to get your chance!’
And believe me, ever since that day, he got his chance. I don’t know how succeeding he was, but I think he had his chance, and believe me I relished on that point and from this day forward if I ever see him in shorts I’m coming at him.
Historical context: The Bryon Russell story became one of the most memorable moments of Jordan's speech. Russell had challenged Jordan during his first retirement, and when Jordan returned, the two eventually faced each other in the NBA Finals with Utah, and, coincidently (or not), Bryon was caught in 2 finals clutch shots, that Michael delivered to the Jazz. The historical "Last Shot" in 1998, one of them. Bryon Russel definitly got his chance, but how epiccaly Michael made him pay.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: This is probably the purest example of Michael Jordan's ability to take something someone said and turn it into motivation, it's just one of my favorite parts of this speech. Most people would forget a comment from years ago. Michael didn't.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Be careful what you tell a competitor. You might just give them another reason to come after you.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: This is Jordan's competitive fire in its purest form. He didn't forget the challenge. He embraced it.
Success Lesson: When someone tells you that you can't do something, let your actions answer them.
22. The Accidental Crying (meme origin) & Humbleness To Thank Everybody
I know you guys gotta go - I know I’ve been up here a lot longer than I told my friends I was going to be up here.
I cried. I was supposed to go up here say ‘thank you’ and walk off, and I didn’t even do that, so uh. (someone from the crowd shouts 'You're the greatest ever Michael!´) - I appreciated, thank you very much.
Historical context: Michael had planned to keep the speech short, but the emotion of the moment clearly got the better of him. After years of seeing Jordan as the unstoppable competitor, the audience suddenly saw the human side of Michael.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: And this is where the speech becomes more than just stories about competition.Behind all that fire was a man who understood what basketball had given him and the people who helped him get there.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Being tough doesn't mean you can't be emotional. Even the most competitive people have moments when they simply stop and appreciate how far they've come.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: The tears don't contradict Jordan's competitive personality. They complete it.
Success Lesson: Behind every great competitor is a human being who has sacrificed, struggled and cared deeply.
23. Closing Statements & Powerful Motivational Words, Playing at 50?
As I close - the game of basketball has been everything to me. My refuge. My place I’ve always gone when I needed to find comfort and peace.
It’s been a source of intense pain, and a source of most intense feelings of joy and satisfaction. And one that no one can even imagine.
It’s been a relationship that has evolved over time, and given me the greatest respect and love for the game.
It has provided me with a platform to share my passion with millions in a way I neither expected nor could have imagined in my career.
I hope that it’s given the millions of people that I’ve touched, the optimism and the desire to achieve their goals through hard-work, perseverance, and positive attitude.
Although I’m recognized with this tremendous honor of being in the basketball Hall of Fame - I don’t look at this moment as a defining end to my relationship with the game of basketball. It’s simply a continuation of something that I started a long time ago.
One day you might look up and see me playing the game at 50! Oh don’t laugh.
Never say never. Because limits, like fears are often just an illusion. Thank you very much. Looking forward to it.
Historical context: This final part brings everything together. After spending the speech explaining the people and moments that added "wood" to his competitive fire, Michael finishes by explaining what basketball ultimately meant to him: a refuge, a passion and a lifelong relationship.
Analyzing Michael Jordan words: And this is why I love this speech. It wasn't really about six championships. It wasn't about proving he was the greatest. It was about the journey that created Michael Jordan. And some say, we really got to see the real Michael Jorda, not the public persona that the world knows... Every rejection, every criticism, every rival, every coach and every person who challenged him became part of the story.
Michael Jordan Mentality takes: Your obstacles can become part of your greatness. You don't control what people say, what happens to you or who doubts you. But you control what you do with it.
Michael Jordan Competitiveness: That's Michael Jordan. Even after everything he had accomplished, he still refused to think in terms of limits.
Success Lesson: Don't let your current reality convince you that you've reached your final level. Keep pushing. Keep believing. Keep becoming. Because sometimes the biggest limitation isn't what you can do. It's what you believe you can't.
Final Thoughts: The Real Lesson Behind Michael Jordan's Speech
After going through this speech, one thing becomes clear: Michael Jordan's greatness wasn't simply about talent, championships or being blessed with an incredible ability to play basketball. It was about what he did with every challenge that came his way. Every person who doubted him, every rival who challenged him, every coach who pushed him, every setback he suffered — somehow, he found a way to turn it into fuel.
And that's what makes this speech so powerful from a motivational point of view. Michael didn't hide the things that bothered him. He remembered them. He used them. But most importantly, he kept moving forward.
That's the mentality I take from this speech. You don't need to have Michael Jordan's talent to learn from Michael Jordan's mindset. Your life will give you plenty of reasons to quit, complain or settle. The question is what you are going to do with them.
Maybe you have your own Leroy Smith. Your own critics. Your own Bryon Russell. Your own moments when somebody made you feel like you weren't good enough.
Don't waste those moments.
Put another log on the fire.
Because greatness isn't built when everything goes your way. It's built when you decide that whatever happens to you, you're going to use it to become better.
And if there's one final message we can take from Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame Speech, it's this:
Never say never. Keep the fire burning. Keep working. Keep improving. And never stop trying to become the best version of yourself.
Continue to...
Be GREAT!
FAQ about Michael Jordan Hall of Fame Speech
1. When and where did Michael Jordan deliver his Hall of Fame speech?
- Michael Jordan delivered his Hall of Fame speech on September 11, 2009, at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.
2. Is there a transcript available for Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech?
- Yes, a transcript of Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech is available here in this article. It captures the full version of the inspiring and emotional words he shared during the ceremony.
3. What were the highlights of Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech?
- Michael Jordan's speech was a remarkable reflection of his illustrious career and competitive spirit. You can find all the highlights in the article above. Michael spoke passionately about his basketball journey, shared memorable anecdotes, and expressed gratitude to those who influenced his life.
4. How long was Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech?
- Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech lasted 23 minutes and 23 seconds, ironically mimicking his number 23 jersey. In this article you can also the speech divided in 23 sections for a better understanding and context.
5. Did Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech reveal any surprising or memorable moments?
- Yes, Michael Jordan's speech contained several remarkable moments, including heartfelt tributes to his family, teammates, and coaches. He also candidly addressed critics and shared personal insights into his mindset and approach to the game. Find more information about who mentioned and why in this article.
6. Can I watch a video of Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech?
- Yes, find it here the speech video, where you can watch the entirety of Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech. Witness his iconic presence and powerful delivery firsthand and follow along with the full transcript and our motivational takes on it.
7. How did Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech impact the basketball community?
- Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech left a lasting impact on the basketball community. It served as a testament to his unparalleled competitiveness, drive for excellence, and undeniable influence on the sport, inspiring generations of athletes.
8. Did Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech provide insights into his post-playing career plans?
- While Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech primarily focused on his basketball journey, he did briefly touch upon his aspirations to make a positive impact in various areas, including ownership and mentoring young players. Specially his last message was full of quotes and motivating words.
Follow us!