Michael Jordan, after winning his first title against the Lakers in 1991

The greatest player to lace ‘em up on the hardwood (apologies to Magic, Larry, Bill, Kareem and Wilt) and the original sporting businessman (sorry Tiger and LeBron), Michael Jeffrey Jordan was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame today.

Jordan entered the Hall alongside John Stockton, David Robinson, Jerry Sloan and Vivian Stringer. The five enshrinees received their Sean John Hall of Fame jackets, gave opening statements, took photos as a group and then answered questions from the assembled media.

MJ thanked his former teammates, foes (the story about Bryon Russell is cold blooded) and family during his acceptance speech, and he chose former North Carolina legend David Thompson to present him into the Hall.

As well as dominating the opposition on the court (MJ never lost a NBA Finals series, winning two three-peats with a two year break in the middle to play minor league baseball), Jordan will also be remembered for dominating the shoe game with his iconic Air Jordans. Jordan Brand currently contributes five per cent of Nike’s total revenue, has a 10.8 per cent share of the US sneaker market and 86.5 per cent share of basketball sneakers sold (over $100).

The Jordan is the sneaker to be seen out and about in – check out this gallery of celebs rocking their Js with style (for more pics head over to the Jordan Depot).

Jigga

John Mayer

Will Smith (with Tony Yayo – just jokes Marvin!)

And finally, check this clip that simply bleeds greatness – visuals supplied by Michael Jordan, audio by Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G. and Faith Evans.

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