Celebrity hoax. A phenomenon that has been around even before the advent of social media. We used to get them via email, and because they didn’t spread as fast as they do now, fact-checking hasn’t really been able to nip them in the bud.
That said, a viral post on social media recently claimed that Michael Jordan secretly took care of his high school janitor, paying off his mortgage, covering medical bills, and even providing him with retirement income. The post, shared widely on Instagram and reposted on X, read:
“Michael Jordan discovered his high school janitor was still working at 80 years old and provided the following for him [money bag emoji] Paid off mortgage [money bag emoji] Covered medical expenses [money bag emoji] Provided a steady retirement income [money bag emoji] Upgraded house with ramps/railings (Via hustlers/IG)” – @Fullcourtpass.
While the story drew praise from fans who admire Jordan’s legendary career and influence off the court, there is no record of it being true. Snopes, a leading fact-checking site, reviewed the claim and wrote: “A Google search for the terms ‘Michael Jordan,’ ‘high school’ and ‘janitor’ found no legitimate media coverage of any such act of generosity on Jordan’s part,” according to Caroline Wazer.
Jordan has been known for his philanthropy, including donations to health centers and scholarships, but this particular story appears to be one of many feel-good tales made up to boost engagement on social media.
Michael Jordan, just by his name alone, has so much pull that it’s quite easy to add any kind of statement next to it. Just a little bit of feasibility and it flies quick. And the funny part is that people believe it. Luckily, this isn’t the 2000s anymore, and fact-checking can now be done with a little Googling.
Lakers Legend Magic Johnson Makes Stance Clear on Michael Jordan, LeBron James
Magic Johnson has made it clear where he stands in the greatest-of-all-time debate, putting Michael Jordan above LeBron James. Speaking on the comparison, he said:
“The best that’s ever done it,” when asked about Jordan. “Don’t get it twisted. I love LeBron, but no… I love my boy, I love him. But when Michael Jordan took off with that tongue out.” (Instagram)
For Johnson, the difference is about more than numbers. By pointing out Jordan’s trademark tongue-out drives, he highlighted the aura and charisma that set MJ apart.
The comment also reflects how many former greats still see Michael Jordan as the standard. Championships, highlight moments, and his impact on the sport and culture still shape the debate today.
Magic’s words remind fans that what defines greatness isn’t only the record books. It’s the memories, the emotions, and the lasting impression a player leaves behind.
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Dan has been active in sports since 2016 and has worked behind the scenes as a scriptwriter for basketball, volleyball, and other sports. At a time, Dan has also been working as a sports commentator for CBA Pilipinas. During the pandemic, he has also been actively writing betting articles for CashBet and BetNow.
