When talking about the people who had an influence on a young Michael Jordan, it is usually the names of his parents that have been highlighted the most. And rightfully so, given how much his parents did to mold a young Michael Jordan into the phenom he went on to become in the NBA. But did you know that there was another family member in MJ’s life that had a great influence on him as well?

Rarely does this person’s name come up when talking about the people that had an impact on His Airness growing up. But even casually bringing up his name years after had even caused the Chicago Bulls legend to shed a tear.

Leaving an impact on Michael Jordan during his formative years

James and Deloris Jordan did their best to raise Michael, along with three other children. The 6x NBA Champion has often credited them for all the things they did for him and his siblings growing up. Another person that had quite an effect on MJ was his great-grandfather, Dawson Jordan. Dawson was just 5’5 and was crippled as he had a bad leg that needed to be dragged along.

Yet the 5’5 great-grandfather of MJ ended up having quite an impact on him as a child. Despite his crippled leg, Dawson possessed great strength to accomplish physical feats that went on to become legends within the family.

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A young Michael Jordan lived with four generations of Jordan men through his formative years growing up. And there is no doubt in the fact that his great-grandfather left an impression on him. Dawson’s presence in MJ’s life was of a figure of authority. And Jordan, along with his siblings went on to cherish the memories they had with him.

MJ’s cherished memories with his great-grandfather

In his book, Michael Jordan: The Life, the relationship between the NBA legend and his great-grandfather is highlighted in much detail. Even when automobiles came into existence, Dawson still made use of his mule to commute anywhere he wanted to go. 

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Jordan and his siblings often hitched a ride into town, jumping in the back of the little wagon attached to the mule. That was until Dawson’s demise in 1977, only a few days after MJ had turned 14.

Even when his name was ever brought up later on, Jordan could be seen tearing up a bit, saying, “He was tough, he was that. Yes, he was.” So, that left no doubt as to what impact he had on Jordan growing up. What are your thoughts on Dawson Jordan? Let us know in the comments.