When was Michael Jordan drafted? It’s a question that every basketball fan should know, not just because of its historical value but also because it marked a turning point in NBA history. Michael Jordan is widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time, and his journey into the league is still studied and celebrated decades later. Drafted in 1984, Jordan’s entry into the NBA changed not only the Chicago Bulls franchise but the league as a whole. Understanding the context of that moment helps paint a picture of how transformative one athlete can be.
In this article, we’ll walk through every relevant detail surrounding Jordan’s draft year, including the teams involved, his college dominance, the overall draft landscape, and how Jordan’s legacy began to take shape the moment he was selected. We’ll also compare his draft to others, analyze its impact, and explore what it meant for basketball’s future.
The Draft Day That Changed the NBA Forever
The date June 19, 1984, marks more than just an ordinary NBA draft—it signifies the moment when basketball history took a monumental turn. On that day, the Chicago Bulls made the third overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft and selected a young guard from the University of North Carolina named Michael Jordan. Although he followed Hakeem Olajuwon and Sam Bowie in the draft order, Jordan would go on to become the defining figure of an entire era of basketball.
Jordan made headlines in college by sinking the game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship, showcasing his clutch gene and competitive spirit. Despite these accomplishments, many scouts and executives remained unsure about his NBA potential, particularly due to his size and the positional value of guards at the time. These doubts contributed to his slip to the third overall pick.
When Jordan joined the Bulls, the franchise was in desperate need of a savior. His arrival immediately altered the team’s culture, turning it from a struggling squad into a contender. Within a few short years, he helped build a dynasty, securing six championships and inspiring millions across the globe.
Remembering when Michael Jordan was drafted is to recall the spark that ignited a global phenomenon. That moment in 1984 was not just the beginning of a legendary career—it was the birth of a sports icon who would elevate basketball to unprecedented heights.
What Was the 1984 NBA Draft Class Like?
Hakeem Olajuwon Goes First
The Houston Rockets kicked off the 1984 NBA Draft by selecting Hakeem Olajuwon as the first overall pick. A dominant center out of the University of Houston, Olajuwon had already earned a reputation as a force on the court. His transition to the NBA was seamless, and he would eventually become a two-time NBA champion and one of the most respected big men in league history.
The Blazers Pick Sam Bowie
With the second pick, the Portland Trail Blazers made a highly scrutinized decision by selecting Sam Bowie from the University of Kentucky. At the time, Portland needed a center and chose Bowie over Michael Jordan. Though Bowie showed promise early in his career, injuries would plague his time in the NBA, making this selection one of the most debated draft choices ever.
Jordan Falls to Chicago
Michael Jordan, arguably the most iconic basketball player of all time, was selected third overall by the Chicago Bulls. Though not chosen first, Jordan quickly proved to be the most impactful player in the draft class. His arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the Bulls and the NBA.
Other Notable Picks
The 1984 class was stacked with talent beyond the top three picks. Charles Barkley went fifth to the Philadelphia 76ers and became a league MVP. John Stockton, selected 16th by the Utah Jazz, would go on to become the NBA’s all-time assist leader and a Hall of Famer.
Historical Significance
The collective talent of the 1984 draft class makes it one of the most legendary in basketball history. Its players reshaped franchises and elevated the NBA’s global profile, creating a legacy still referenced in draft conversations today.
Reasons Jordan Was Drafted Third
Understanding why Michael Jordan was drafted third overall in the 1984 NBA Draft requires looking at the context of that era and the decisions made by the teams ahead of the Chicago Bulls. While hindsight reveals that Jordan was a once-in-a-generation talent, several logical factors influenced the choices of the teams that passed on him:
- Team Needs Influenced Decisions: The Houston Rockets already had promising young talent and were in search of a dominant center. Hakeem Olajuwon was an obvious choice based on their roster needs, and he fit the traditional mold of a franchise cornerstone.
- Injuries Didn’t Hinder Bowie Yet: Sam Bowie had shown significant potential in college, and at the time of the draft, he had recovered from earlier leg injuries. The Portland Trail Blazers needed size in their frontcourt and took a calculated risk.
- Jordan Was Seen as a Shooting Guard Only: In an era that prioritized big men, many scouts and front offices didn’t view Jordan’s position as one that could carry a franchise. They overlooked his versatility and ability to influence games in multiple ways.
- College System Limited His Stats: Playing in Dean Smith’s disciplined system at UNC, Jordan didn’t put up the kind of eye-popping numbers that might have boosted his draft stock further.
- Positional Value at the Time: During the 1980s, NBA teams heavily valued centers over guards. The belief was that championships were built around dominant big men.
- Lack of Hype Compared to Today: The draft process was less media-driven, and scouting technology was not as advanced, meaning Jordan’s full potential wasn’t universally recognized.
Jordan’s College Career and Rise to Fame
Before people asked “when was Michael Jordan drafted,” he had already made a name for himself at the University of North Carolina. Jordan played under legendary coach Dean Smith, developing discipline, fundamentals, and a killer instinct. His defining moment came in 1982, when he hit the game-winning shot in the NCAA Championship against Georgetown. That moment foreshadowed his future clutch performances.
Throughout his three-year college career, Jordan earned accolades like the Naismith and Wooden Awards, given to the best player in the country. He also played on the U.S. Olympic team, further building his reputation before entering the NBA. Scouts were impressed by his athleticism and determination but didn’t fully grasp how dominant he would become. His time at UNC helped shape his mindset, work ethic, and leadership—qualities that translated seamlessly into the NBA.
Jordan left college early to enter the draft, a move that was still considered bold at the time. But for him, it was the right decision. By the time he walked onto the NBA stage, he was ready to compete at the highest level.
Why 1984 Is Remembered as the Draft Year of Legends
- A Loaded Class of Talent: The 1984 NBA Draft remains legendary because of its extraordinary depth and quality. It featured multiple future Hall of Famers, including Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton. These players didn’t just excel individually—they altered the trajectory of their franchises and left indelible marks on basketball history.
- The Evolution of the NBA: The players drafted in 1984 played a critical role in transforming the league’s style. Jordan’s high-flying athleticism and marketability, Barkley’s tenacity, and Stockton’s precision helped usher in a faster, more dynamic game. Their influence contributed to the NBA becoming a more entertainment-driven and globally recognized product.
- Changing How Teams Draft: Before 1984, teams often prioritized size and traditional positions. Jordan’s meteoric rise forced a shift in draft strategy. Teams began to focus more on intangible qualities such as drive, leadership, and versatility, recognizing that athleticism and mindset could outweigh size alone.
- Enduring Legacy: Even decades later, the 1984 draft is the gold standard against which all others are compared. It’s a frequent topic in sports documentaries, highlight reels, and media retrospectives. The players from this class continue to influence how greatness is measured.
- Impact on Pop Culture: Michael Jordan, in particular, became a cultural icon. His rise helped elevate the NBA from a domestic league into a global brand. The 1984 draft didn’t just change basketball—it played a vital role in shaping sports culture worldwide.
In Closing
The question of when Michael Jordan was drafted goes beyond a simple date—it marks the beginning of a basketball revolution. On June 19, 1984, the Chicago Bulls selected Jordan third overall in a decision that would redefine the NBA. Though not the top pick, his entry into the league proved to be one of the most significant moments in sports history. Jordan’s transition from college star to global icon began with that single draft announcement. His impact would stretch far beyond the court, inspiring generations and transforming the NBA into a global brand. That moment wasn’t just a career milestone—it was the start of a legacy that continues to influence the world of sports today.
FAQ’s
Q. When was Michael Jordan drafted to the NBA?
A. Michael Jordan was drafted on June 19, 1984, as the third overall pick by the Chicago Bulls during the legendary 1984 NBA Draft.
Q. Why wasn’t Jordan the first pick in the 1984 draft?
A. Both the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers focused on size and positional needs, choosing Hakeem Olajuwon and Sam Bowie over Jordan.
Q. Who were the top picks in the 1984 NBA draft?
A. The first three picks were Hakeem Olajuwon to the Rockets, Sam Bowie to the Trail Blazers, and Michael Jordan to the Chicago Bulls.
Q. Which team did Michael Jordan start his NBA career with?
A. Michael Jordan began his NBA journey with the Chicago Bulls, the franchise that selected him in the 1984 draft.
Q. How did Jordan perform after being drafted?
A. Jordan quickly rose to stardom—winning Rookie of the Year, six NBA championships, five MVPs, and becoming a global basketball icon.
What college did Michael Jordan play for?
A. Jordan played at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he led the Tar Heels under the coaching of Dean Smith.
