Michael Jordan at 50

One of the most decorated players in history turned fifty yesterday, bringing reminiscent memories back to long time basketball fans as they remember Jordan's era of dominance. Phil Taylor, author for Sports Illustrated, tried to capture this influx of past instances of Jordan's excellence in his article for the magazine. What a tall task Taylor was faced with! Michael Jordan, arguably the best player of all time, is known for hundreds of unbelievable moments that can barely be put into words. For example, as Taylor highlights, Jordan is remembered for one moment in the playoffs of one of his six championship seasons when he played despite experiencing flu-like symptoms prior to the game. Not only that, but Michael Jordan lead his Bulls team to the victory with his 38 points and 44 minutes played. For most of us, getting out of bed is a stretch when we have the flu, let alone participate in any physical activity. Jordan competed in an NBA game with some of the best athletes in the world and played like a true champion. Taylor also fills the piece with quotes and references true to Jordan's personality, ones that make your remember his competitiveness and drive. One such quote comes in the first paragraph, where Jordan says, "One day you may look up and see me playing a game at 50. Don't laugh. Never say never." Fifty years of age seems to be the boundary for athletes in terms of the limit to which they will play. For Jordan to come out and say this while he was winding down his career shows a true love for the game and a determination like no other. These mementos of the life of Michael Jordan were all present in the article because of Taylor's craftiness and ability to highlight the characteristics that made MJ special.