The journey of Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball player, is not without its share of challenges and setbacks.
One of the most pivotal moments in his life occurred during his high school years when he faced the disappointment of being cut from the varsity basketball team.
Jordan describe this episode in his Hall of Fame Enshrinement Speech:
"And then there’s Leroy Smith. Now you guys think that’s a myth. Leroy Smith was a guy when I got cut he made the team - on the Varsity team."
This article explores the story behind this event and the profound inspiration it provided throughout Jordan's remarkable career.
Michael Jordan High School Story - Motivation
1. The High School Setback - A Turning Point:
During his sophomore year at Laney High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, Michael Jordan was dealt a significant blow when he was cut from the varsity basketball team.
This unexpected setback was a humbling experience for a young Jordan, who had dreams of becoming a professional basketball player.
However, rather than accepting defeat, this event ignited a fire within him and fueled his determination to prove his worth.
"But he started the whole process with me, because when he made the team and I didn’t, I wanted to prove not just to Leroy Smith, not just to myself, but to the coach that picked Leroy over me, I wanted to make sure you understood - you made a mistake dude"
(Michael Jordan)
2. The Inspiration Behind the Setback:
The disappointment of being cut from the team pushed Jordan to reevaluate his skills, work ethic, and dedication to the game.
It served as a wake-up call, prompting him to train harder, refine his technique, and develop an unwavering commitment to success.
The rejection served as the catalyst that propelled him to surpass his limitations and become the player he aspired to be.
"Everybody goes through disappointments, it’s how you overcome those disappointments. I just wasn’t good enough. In terms of the best thing that could happen to me was to get cut, cause it made me go back and get caught up with my skill level at my height."
(Michael Jordan)
3. Resilience and Perseverance:
The setback in high school demonstrated Jordan's resilience and his refusal to let obstacles define his future.
Instead of giving up, he channeled his disappointment into relentless effort and determination.
This event inspired him to become better, both physically and mentally, and laid the foundation for his future success.
“We both cried, cause I knew he wanted to really compete with the other guys. My words to him was, “if you really want it, you work hard over the summer”, and he did that summer!”
(Deloris Jordan, Michael Jordan's mother about the reaction to the cut)
4. The Drive to Succeed:
Jordan's experience of being cut from the high school team fueled a relentless drive within him to prove his abilities and showcase his talent.
It served as a constant reminder of the hard work required to achieve greatness.
Jordan's tireless pursuit of improvement, honing his skills, and becoming the best player he could be, became the hallmark of his career.
“Whenever I was working out and got tired and figured I ought to stop, I’d close my eyes and see that list in the locker room without my name on it. That usually got me going again.”
(Michael Jordan)
5. Fueling the Competitive Spirit:
The disappointment of being cut served as motivation for Jordan to outwork and outperform his rivals.
He developed a fierce competitive spirit that drove him to excel in every aspect of the game.
The event became a source of inspiration that fueled his desire to dominate on the court and proved to be a defining characteristic of his legendary career.
"That summer, he focused. He would practice all day. That basketball never left his hand."
(Deloris Jordan)
6. Inspiring Others to Overcome:
Jordan's story of being cut from the high school team resonates with athletes and individuals worldwide who have faced setbacks and adversity.
His journey from rejection to greatness serves as a powerful inspiration, emphasizing the importance of resilience, determination, and self-belief.
It encourages others in a similar situation, to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and persevere in the pursuit of their dreams.
Take look a this ultra inspiring story, Tony Robbins told about a conversation he had with Michael a while back:
"Michael Jordan. Remember I interviewed him years ago?
And I said, 'What makes you the best in the world? Is it skill? Is it talent? Is it abilities? Is it background? Is it training?'
And he was so awesome. He said, 'Tony I can tell you the truth and it won't sound like false modesty.'
He said, 'I didn't even make the high school basketball team, sophomore year. I was cut.'
He said,
"What it is is everyday I demand more from myself than anybody else could possibly expect. I don't compete with other people. I compete with what I'm capable of.'"
(Michael Jordan)
7. In Conclusion:
The story of Michael Jordan being cut from his high school basketball team remains a significant chapter in his life.
Instead of succumbing to disappointment, he transformed this setback into a wellspring of inspiration.
Jordan's unwavering dedication, relentless work ethic, and refusal to accept defeat propelled him to become one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Michael Jordan's journey reminds us that setbacks can be stepping stones to success and that the true measure of a champion lies in their ability to rise above adversity.
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