45 years ago, Michael Jordan failed to make the varsity team at Laney High School. But now, the 6x NBA champion is set to be honored with brick and mortar in downtown Wilmington, less than 1o miles away from his high school. His Airness is once again being celebrated by his alma mater’s state. The big approval this time, comes from the 60-year-old’s mother, Deloris Jordan, who has now made things official with New Hanover County.
The North Carolina Tar Heels legend’s 1982 game winner in the Louisiana Superdome isn’t lost on the people of Tar Heel State. But apart from just bringing trophies, MJ has also made several charitable contributions for the residents of North Carolina. In lieu of his on and off-court work, Project Grace, an initiative to redevelop a block in downtown Wilmington, is looking to construct a museum for the Jordans.
Michael Jordan and his family’s achievements will shine once again in North Carolina
The Black Cat‘s contribution to the city of Chicago has been displayed a lot. Now it’s time for North Carolina. New Hanover County announced yesterday that they will be celebrating the success and life of the Jordan family through a standalone museum in Wilmington. The museum is believed to be a part of Project Grace, which is focused on the redevelopment of the county.
According to reports, MJ’s mother Deloris Jordan recently signed a memorandum of understanding with New Hanover County, approving the collaboration. The museum will showcase objects that hold a special place in Jordan’s career and also objects that define his family legacy. New Hanover County’s commissioner shared, “Our community is steeped in history and while many famous families have roots here in New Hanover County, none are more notable than those connected to basketball’s biggest icon, Michael Jordan.”
There is not much information about the funding of the project or the date of opening. Because this is a large-scale project, we might have to wait for several months or even a year for the County to complete the museum. But it isn’t the only way in which MJ and Wilmington are connected.
Michael Jordan’s notable contribution to North Carolina
In 2021, Jordan announced that he would be donating a total of $10 million which was used to open two medical clinics for the people of Wilmington. Moreover, the clinics also assured that they will serve the uninsured and underinsured people who need treatment.
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When the clinic donation was announced, MJ candidly said, “Wilmington holds a special place in my heart.” On multiple occasions, the 5x MVP has put his money into the state.
Previously in 2018, the Chicago Bulls legend also gave $2 million to the city of Charlotte for the relief efforts after a hurricane. He also opened the Jordan Institute for Families at the University of North Carolina for social work.
Apart from all these donations, Michael Jordan hit the game-winning shot in 1982 to bring home North Carolina’s second-ever NCAA championship. Even after he retired from basketball, Jordan stuck to his roots by purchasing ownership with Charlotte Hornets, which was sold earlier this year.
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