Part 1 - The Murder of James Jordan
Photo Credit: Sue Ogrocki/Reuters - Michael Jordan with his father, James, after the final game of the 1992 N.B.A. finals.
In this episode… Jen takes us back to the early 1990’s with her athlete story this week and we couldn’t help but get a little nostalgic. The early 90’s was especially exciting for those of us who were Chicago Bulls fans as they were racking up championship after championship. Even if you weren’t big into basketball or the NBA growing up, you knew who Michael Jordan was. Everyone wanted to “Be Like Mike.” Kids across America were sporting Air Jordans and eating Wheaties for breakfast.
It was 1993…the year of the (1st) 3-peat for the Chicago Bulls. It was sure to have been one of the greatest highlights of Jordan’s career. Sadly, just a few short weeks later…he would receive the heartbreaking news that his father, James Jordan had been murdered.
James was a wonderful, devoted father. He was a businessman who would travel the country to watch his son work his magic on the court from his time at the University of North Carolina to his career in the NBA. James, himself, was quite an athlete, as he had gone semi-pro in baseball back in his heyday.
Those close to James spoke highly of his character. He may have been the proud father of an iconic legend in the world of basketball and beyond…but he was humble and grounded, remaining true to his roots and his family.
Unfortunately, James Jordan’s tragic murder still remains shrouded in mystery. What really happened to James on that fateful day he decided to pull over and rest on the side of the Highway? Why was this man who was so loved by friends and family not reported as a missing person for 3 whole weeks?!
Jen’s Sources:
Chicago Tribune Article by: Stacy St. Clair & Chad Yoder