Michael Jordan, the basketball legend, is synonymous with a shaved head, a look he famously adopted during his illustrious career. However, there’s a lesser-known chapter in his appearance history—Michael Jordan with hair. In this article, we will uncover an intriguing aspect of his life that has often been overlooked, shedding light on the man behind the baldness and revealing what you didn’t know about Michael Jordan’s hair.
Basketball Legend: Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, often referred to as MJ, is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, Jordan’s impact on the sport and popular culture has been profound. He played the majority of his career for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA, and later for the Washington Wizards.
Throughout his career, Jordan achieved numerous accolades and records, solidifying his status as a basketball legend. His list of accomplishments includes six NBA championships, five Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, fourteen All-Star game appearances, and ten scoring titles, among others. Jordan’s competitive drive, athleticism, and remarkable skill set him apart from his peers, earning him widespread admiration and respect.
Beyond his on-court achievements, Jordan’s influence extended far beyond the basketball court. His impact on popular culture, fashion, and global sports marketing is immeasurable. He became a global icon, known for his signature line of sneakers with Nike, as well as his involvement in various endorsements and business ventures.
The Bald Icon: Michael Jordan’s Image
The decision to embrace a bald look was a defining moment in Jordan’s public persona and played a significant role in shaping his image as a basketball legend and cultural icon.
- Following his early years in the NBA, Michael Jordan began to lose his hair, and he made the choice to shave his head, embracing a clean-shaven look.
- Jordan’s bald head conveyed a sense of confidence, strength, and no-nonsense attitude, which aligned with his approach to the game of basketball.
- Beyond basketball, Jordan’s bald look transcended the sports world, making him recognizable to people of all backgrounds.
It became an integral part of his brand and identity, influencing fashion trends and inspiring countless individuals to embrace their own baldness with confidence.
Reasons for the bald look
There are two reasons behind Michael Jordan’s choice to go bald.
- One key factor was convenience – as a professional athlete, he needed a low-maintenance hairstyle.
- Additionally, it is believed that he may have started to experience hair loss and opted to shave his head for a sleek and polished look.
Irrespective of the reasons, his decision to embrace baldness has had a significant impact on fans and fellow athletes alike.
Michael Jordan’s Hair Evolution
Many recognize Jordan for his bald look, yet his early NBA career tells a different story. The athletic superstar initially sported hair, featuring cuts from buzzed to even an Afro buzz cut. As he further epitomized success and fame, Jordan decided to trade his buzzed hair for a completely bald head. This decision not only defined his new appearance but also turned this signature style into an iconic symbol synonymous with his name.
Michael Jordan With Hair
For the early part of his career, Michael Jordan was known for sporting an afro buzz cut, which he maintained from his college days until his initial seasons with the Bulls. Notably, it was with this hairstyle that Jordan achieved the remarkable feat of setting the postseason record of 63 points against the Celtics.
However, in the late 1980s, Jordan began to shave his head due to receding hairline issues that became apparent during his first MVP season in 1987-88. From that point until 1990, any hair on his head was kept at stubble length.
His early hairstyle
Before adopting his iconic bald look, Michael Jordan was recognized for his Afro buzz cut. This hairstyle involved maintaining slightly longer hair on top, resulting in a subtle and natural texture.
How to get his haircut?
To achieve a hairstyle similar to Michael Jordan’s early afro buzz cut, start by using clippers with a longer guard to trim the hair on the top of the head. Then, use a shorter guard to create a clean, tapered look along the sides and back, replicating the distinctive style of Jordan’s iconic haircut.
Did he ever have long hair?
Contrary to popular belief, Michael Jordan never sported long hair during his career. He consistently maintained a clean-cut and short hairstyle, reflecting his practical and simple approach to appearance.
Michael Jordan’s Impact on Fashion
Jordan’s fashion choices, despite often being subject to criticism and online trolling, never detracted from his iconic status in the fashion world.
ESPN tackled Jordan’s game-changing influence on fashion in a report featuring commentaries from renowned personalities in the industry, Jeff Staple and Jermaine Hall, who discussed Jordan’s bald look and its revolutionary impact on fashion.
Jeff Staple, a respected figure in the fashion world and founder of RAD, and Jermaine Hall, an accomplished editor in the media industry, both acknowledged the ripple effect Jordan’s bald look induced in the world of fashion.
As highlighted by Staple, Jordan’s style choice embodied efficiency, setting it apart from other popular trends of the time. Hall cemented this view, stating that despite being a necessary choice due to his receding hairline, Jordan’s bald look branded him with an image that was universally accessible and digestible, spurring a trendsetting movement in fashion.
Final Thoughts on Michael Jordan With Hair
Michael Jordan’s bald head has become synonymous with his identity. However, it is fascinating to discover that behind his iconic bald look, there was a time when he sported a full head of hair. Although we may never fully understand why he chose to shave it all off, Michael Jordan remains an inspiration and a symbol of greatness in the world of sports. Whether with hair or without, his legacy will forever be etched in basketball history!
FAQs
When did Jordan lose his hair?
Jordan started losing his hair during the mid-late 1980s.
How much is Michael Jordan worth?
Michael Jordan has a net worth of $3 billion as of November 2023, according to Forbes.
Does Michael Jordan have a wife?
Yes, Michael Jordan married Yvette Prieto in 2013.
How tall is Michael Jordan?
During his playing career, Michael Jordan stood at 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters) tall.