Michael Jordan, the business mogul, always takes time out for his family during the off-season. The Chicago Bulls legend did the same this year, visiting Ibiza and some other parts of France and Italy. There were photos of ‘His Airness’ being celebrated by the local fans throughout his vacation. Not sure if he ended his break early, but he was surely present to celebrate his ‘little brother.’ Well, we are talking about Dwight Freeney who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his immense contributions to the Colts.
The Indianapolis legend and Michael Jordan have been friends for close to 20 years. And Jordan joined in the ceremony at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, where the proceedings were delayed by at least 90 minutes.
Earlier in the year, Michael Jordan even staged a prank, which Freeney had no idea about. They usually play golf a few days a week. Former star pass rusher did not expect his former coach Tony Dungy, and President of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Jim Porter to be there when he reached the golf course. It was a full-circle moment, as coach Dungy broke the news of Freeney’s Hall of Fame induction at the famous Grove XXIII.
“I walk in and open the door and Coach Dungy is sitting there with a gold jacket and all these cameras,” Freeney continued. “My wife’s sitting there, laughing. She’s held the secret for a week… It was awesome. I was completely shocked. I had no idea.”
Freeney’s wife Brittany shared with Fox9 that Michael Jordan was excited and very open to planning the surprise. And, he gave his approval for the Freeney Family to celebrate the moment at his exclusive golf course. But how did two different professional sports athletes become such close?
Michael Jordan and his 17 year younger brother
On The Adam Schefter Podcast, Dwight Freeney revealed how his friendship with Michael Jordan started. “Through the game of golf, you know, back in the day, 2003 or 2004, I got invited to his golf invitational.” The former defensive end continued, “After the invitational, in the offseasons, he (MJ) would come to town. I ended up being good friends with one of his best friends. He will say… ‘call the young kid on this trip, let’s go. Let’s have a good time.‘”
From idolizing Michael Jordan to calling him a big brother, it was quite a journey for Freeney. “I ended up getting to know him very well, which is kind of crazy because I grew up, like, idolizing the guy… Became like big bro. He’s been big brother since 2003 or (2004),” the 44-year-old said.
With the two of them being so close now, it was obvious that MJ would be present at the induction ceremony, even if it meant cutting his vacation short.
Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.”