Michael Jordan hasn’t played NBA basketball in more than 20 years, but he remains perhaps the biggest and most important name in the sport’s history.
Two decades after his retirement, Jordan still thinks about being on the court and wishes he could somehow compete today.
Speaking to NBC, Jordan opened up about his desire to play basketball.
“Love it like you wouldn’t believe. In all honesty, I wish I could take a magic pill, put on shorts, and go out and play the game of basketball today. That’s who I am. That type of competition, that type of competitiveness, it’s what I live for, I miss it. But it’s better for me to be sitting here as opposed to popping my Achilles,” Jordan said.
Michael Jordan when asked if he still loves the game:
“Love it like you wouldn’t believe. I wish I could take a magic pill, put on shorts and go out and play the game of basketball, today…it’s what I live for, I miss it.”
via: @NBAonNBC pic.twitter.com/HMsAneF1fX
— JordanMuse (@JordanMuse_) October 22, 2025
When you look back at his numbers, his accomplishments, and legacy, it’s easy to understand why Jordan wishes he could still play.
He averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists across his 15 years in the league.
And the awards he won are numerous, including 14 All-Star appearances, 10 scoring championships, three steal championships, Rookie of the Year, five MVPs, six titles, and more.
The fact that Jordan is still being interviewed about basketball all these years later shows the sort of impact he has had, and continues to have.
Sadly, there is no magic pill and no way for Jordan to get back on the court.
During this interview, he also revealed that he hardly even plays pickup games and usually stays off the court unless he’s putting up a free throw for fun.
This simply isn’t part of his life anymore, but it’s clear that Jordan still thinks about his career often.
He’s not the only one because millions of NBA fans miss all that he did for the league.
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