Michael Jordan

23XI Racing, co-owned by Jordan, and Front Row Motorsports sued NASCAR, alleging that it exercised monopoly power through its charter system. Jordan testified at the trial in December 2025. The parties subsequently reached a settlement.

State of the evidence

Settlement

During the Senate campaign between Harvey Gantt and Jesse Helms, Michael Jordan declined to give a public endorsement, a decision that became emblematic of criticism of his political caution. The phrase 'Republicans buy sneakers too' was attributed to him for decades.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

After 'The Last Dance' was released, Horace Grant called Jordan a liar on several points and argued that the documentary, over which Jordan exercised substantial editorial control, presented a highly biased account of the Bulls' history.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

In 'The Last Dance', Jordan denied having demanded that Isiah Thomas be excluded from the Dream Team. Shortly afterwards, a recording of a 2011 interview was released in which Jordan said he would not play if Thomas was selected, reviving claims that he had indeed influenced the selection.

State of the evidence

Documented

Under Jordan's ownership, the Charlotte Bobcats finished the 2011–2012 season with seven wins and 59 losses, the worst winning percentage in NBA history. The result renewed criticism of his record as a decision-maker and owner.

State of the evidence

Documented

As owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, Jordan was described as one of the toughest owners during the 2011 NBA lockout, supporting a substantial reduction in players' share of revenues. His history as a superstar who had defended players' interests fuelled allegations of hypocrisy.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Karla Knafel claimed that Jordan promised her $5 million in exchange for silence and not bringing a paternity action after their relationship. Jordan sought a court ruling contesting the alleged agreement; DNA tests excluded his paternity.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Campaigners targeted Nike and Air Jordan shoes over pay and working conditions in subcontracted Asian factories. Jordan's prominence as Nike's main commercial figure made him a symbolic target of these campaigns.

State of the evidence

Documented

Several episodes fuelled controversy over Jordan's gambling: a cheque to James 'Slim' Bouler, claims by Richard Esquinas about a substantial golf-related debt and a visit to Atlantic City during the playoffs. The NBA examined the matters.

Attribution

Personally implicated