Michael Jordan praises ‘little brother’ Kobe Bryant

Michael Jordan paid tribute to Kobe Bryant in a pre-game video before Monday night’s matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets.

Jordan, who owns the Hornets, did not attend the game but made sure the retiring Bryant got a warm send off from the Charlotte organization.

“I’m a big fan,” said Jordan. “I still love watching you play.”

In the video, Jordan describes the 37-year-old Bryant as a “big help to the game of basketball.” He then refers to him as a little brother.

“We are very proud of what you have accomplished over the years. Have a great game. But not too good​.”

Jordan competed against Bryant in the latter part of his brilliant NBA career.

Bryant announced recently he would retire at the end of the 2015–16 season.

Star shock

Meanwhile, Bryant was stunned to learn he’s the runaway leader in fan voting for the 65th NBA All-Star Game as he battles through his 20th and final season with a lackluster Los Angeles Lakers team.

Amid debate earlier this month on whether he deserved an 18th all-star appearance, Bryant said it would be “great” to play once more in the mid-season exhibition, but said he’d support the showcase no matter what.

When early returns were announced on Friday, Bryant led the likes of reigning Most Valuable Player Stephen Curry of Golden State and Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James.

“I was like, ‘What the hell?’” the 37-year-old said. “Shocked doesn’t do it justice. It’s exciting. What can I say? Just thankful.”

source: interaksyon.com

Michael Jordan's Chicago home to be sold at auction

CHICAGO - Basketball great Michael Jordan's luxurious Chicago mansion will be sold at auction next week, his agent said Friday.

The sprawling estate in the upmarket suburb of Highland Park had previously been offered with a listing price of $29 million but failed to sell.

Dubbed Legend Point, the nine-bedroom home sits on 7.4 acres and features a regulation-size NBA-quality basketball court, a pool pavilion, a tennis court, a putting green and a guest house.



"I have so many amazing, happy memories of my life in the house over the years," Jordan said in a statement. "It's where my kids grew up. It's where I lived during my championship years."

But despite the business interests which still tie Jordan to Chicago, he said the house is too big now that his children are grown.

Remodeled in 2011, the 'family area' features floor-to-ceiling windows, a built-in aquarium and a fireplace.

The lower level of the home has a card and cigar room, a wine cellar and a fully-equipped beauty salon.

The gate is adorned with the number 23 in the same design which marked his Chicago Bulls jersey.

The modern 56,000-square-foot estate will be sold at auction with no reserve on November 22.

source: interaksyon.com