Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, has a career marked by incredible comebacks and unforgettable moments. After retiring for the second time in January 1999, stating a “99.9 percent” certainty of never returning, the allure of the game proved too strong. Just under two years later, on September 25, 2001, Jordan shocked the sports world by announcing his return to the NBA, this time with the Washington Wizards. This comeback naturally led fans and analysts to question: How Old Is Michael Jordan and what could he possibly achieve at this stage of his career?
Jordan’s journey back to the court began after he joined the Wizards as president of basketball operations in January 2000. Around six months prior to his official return announcement, whispers of a comeback started circulating as Jordan began a rigorous training regime. Initially, he downplayed these rumors, suggesting he was merely trying to lose weight gained during retirement. However, his actions spoke louder than words. He organized exclusive training camps for NBA players and, significantly, hired his former Chicago Bulls coach, Doug Collins, to lead the Wizards. The signs became increasingly clear: Michael Jordan was contemplating another return.
Michael Jordan's return to the NBA with the Washington Wizards at age 38
When Michael Jordan officially announced his return, he was 38 years old. This was a significant age in a league dominated by younger athletes. Adding to the narrative was the fact that he was more than three years removed from his last championship with the Chicago Bulls. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his performance, the anticipation was immense. Jordan’s return generated phenomenal excitement, with every Washington Wizards home game selling out during his two seasons with the team. Although the Wizards didn’t reach the playoffs during his tenure as a player, Jordan’s individual performances were far from disappointing.
In the 2001-02 season, even with a knee injury that shortened his season to 60 games, Jordan demonstrated that age was just a number. He averaged an impressive 22.9 points per game, along with 5.2 assists and 5.7 rebounds. More than just solid averages, he delivered moments of brilliance that reminded everyone of his legendary status. On December 29, 2001, just days after what he considered the worst game of his career, Jordan exploded for 51 points against the Charlotte Hornets. This remarkable feat made him the oldest player in NBA history to score 50 points in a single game, further cementing his place in the record books and answering any lingering questions about how old is Michael Jordan and what he could still do. His return at 38 years old was not just a nostalgic comeback; it was a testament to his enduring skill, competitiveness, and unparalleled impact on the game of basketball.
