When Michael Jordan dunked from the foul line during the 1988 Slam Dunk Contest, it became clear to everyone watching that he was simply not human. This iconic moment was just one example of the many instances that solidified Jordan’s god-like status in basketball.

Here are seven stories that prove Michael Jordan was more than just a man.

1. The Foul Line Dunk

The legendary foul line dunk in 1988 showcased Jordan’s incredible leaping ability and left fans and fellow players in awe. It was a moment that confirmed his otherworldly athleticism.

2. The Black Jesus

Kobe Bryant, while working out with the Philadelphia 76ers, once asked what it was like to guard Jordan. The players responded, “You mean Black Jesus?” This nickname alone speaks volumes about Jordan’s impact and the reverence he commanded on the court.

3. The Jordan Effect

Jordan’s dominance extended beyond his physical abilities. According to sportswriter Andy Andrews, Jordan manipulated referees by developing personal relationships with them. He would greet them by name and ask about their families, creating a bond that subtly influenced their calls during games. This psychological edge, dubbed the “Jordan Effect,” showed his strategic genius.

4. Defeating Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

In 2013, a 19-year-old Michael Kidd-Gilchrist challenged the nearly 50-year-old Jordan to a one-on-one game. Despite his age, Jordan soundly defeated the younger, more athletic player, proving that his skills and competitive drive were timeless.

5. The LaBradford Smith Revenge

In 1993, LaBradford Smith had a career game, scoring 37 points against the Bulls. Rumor has it he told Jordan, “Good game, Mike,” which infuriated him. The next night, Jordan scored 36 points in the first half alone, finishing with 47 points and leading the Bulls to a decisive victory. Years later, Jordan admitted he fabricated Smith’s comment to motivate himself, highlighting his relentless drive.

6. The Byron Russell Grudge

During his baseball hiatus, Jordan visited a Bulls practice where rookie Byron Russell taunted him about his retirement. Jordan kept this in mind and later scored the game-winning shot against Russell’s Utah Jazz in the 1998 NBA Finals, exacting his revenge and showcasing his long memory and competitive nature.

7. Golf and the Cleveland Cavaliers

On a day he played 36 holes of golf and drank multiple beers, Jordan bet his golf partner that he would score over 40 points and his team would win by 20 against the Cleveland Cavaliers that night. Jordan delivered, scoring 52 points and leading the Bulls to a 26-point victory. This story illustrates his superhuman endurance and focus.

Conclusion

Michael Jordan’s legendary status is backed by numerous stories of his incredible physical feats, strategic mind games, and relentless competitiveness. These seven stories are just a glimpse into why Jordan is considered the greatest of all time and, perhaps, not entirely human.