Chapel Hill, NC — June 21, 2025
Michael Jordan may have left the court decades ago, but the GOAT continues to make big moves — not just for his brand, but for the future of the game he loves.
The UNC basketball legend and global sports icon has reportedly signed a new $30 million endorsement deal, sources close to ESPN confirm. But in true Jordan fashion, he’s not just pocketing the win — he’s paying it forward. The six-time NBA champion is donating a staggering $10 million of that sum to the University of North Carolina’s basketball program, the very place where his journey to greatness began.
“It all started here,” Jordan said in a statement released early Friday. “This program gave me the foundation, the discipline, and the belief that I could achieve anything. Giving back to UNC isn’t just a donation — it’s a thank you.”
The donation will be used to upgrade UNC’s basketball facilities, enhance player development programs, and expand scholarship opportunities for student-athletes. The university confirmed that part of the funds will go toward a newly planned “Jordan Excellence Center” — a cutting-edge training facility set to open in 2026.
Jordan’s gesture comes at a time when college athletics is undergoing major changes, with NIL deals, conference realignments, and shifting priorities. For many, his move is a reminder of the deep roots and loyalty that still exist in the game.
UNC head coach Hubert Davis called the gift “transformational,” adding, “Michael’s generosity will elevate our program for decades to come. His belief in our student-athletes means everything.”
The $30 million endorsement deal fueling the donation is with a major sportswear brand — details of which are expected to be released in the coming days. Insiders say it will include a signature apparel line and community-focused initiatives, continuing Jordan’s legacy beyond basketball.
From buzzer-beaters to boardroom brilliance, Jordan’s latest move shows that legends don’t just play the game — they invest in its future.
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