The shift for NBA athletes into post-basketball careers is a complicated one. Even though the narrative is starting to shift, the common perception still is against the athletes making it big. However, a shift is coming, without a doubt. While names like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Shaquille O’Neal build business empires off the court, a different name started the process. That name is none other than Michael Jordan. But it wasn’t Mike who was always the inspiration. As it turns out, for one former teammate of Jordan, he wasn’t the standard.

For most players and analysts alike, MJ is the end-all and be-all. Regardless of the question, the answer is always Michael Jeffrey Jordan. However, amid this Jordan worshipping, some aspects of his career are infamous. Like his stint with the Washington Wizards.

The one who went against the grain

Despite becoming a Chicago Bulls legend, His Airness also spent a portion of his career in the nation’s capital. Acting as owner and executive, his run wasn’t ideal. Instead, it was a swansong. But seeing him take up a role of more than basketball was surprising to a lot of people. Chief among them was his teammate Bobby Simmons.

Coming into the NBA alongside MJ’s iconic return, Simmons would spend 11 years in the league. Aside from his days with the Wizards, Bobby would also suit up for the Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Brooklyn Nets, and San Antonio Spurs.

However, it was during his time in?Cream City?that Simmons got into business after basketball. His inspiration? Junior Bridgeman – one of the wealthiest former athletes of all time. Despite earning roughly $4 million in the league, Bridgeman would accrue a net worth of over $600 million. That was due to a penchant for the business side that would land him investments in Wendy’s and Chili’s.

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It was his model that became Simmons’ inspiration. “As I did more research, I thought to myself, ?Wow, this guy is very influential.? He showed me it can be done. You have to utilize your platform while you have it,” Simmons told The Sun. Following that idea, Simmons would open a sneaker store in Chicago. Further, the 2005 Most Improved Player would also launch the Society 2201 nightclub just after retirement.

Of course, Bobby’s source being different does not take away from MJ’s greatness as a businessman/entrepreneur.

The Michael Jordan Empire

As soon as he came into the league, Jordan was among the most marketable personalities. Whether it was his popularity, personality, or swagger, MJ was a fan favorite for most brand endorsements. Taking that popularity and pairing it with keen business decisions has led to the name becoming a brand.

Whether it was his partnership with Nike that led to the Jordan brand and unparalleled success, or his stint as owner of the Charlotte Hornets, the 5x NBA MVP has ventured into every avenue. He even has a tequila company in collaboration with other NBA owners.

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As a result, today his net worth today stands at $3.5 billion. Even though Bobby sought out other muses, Jordan remains at the pinnacle of life as a businessman after basketball.