“You Are the Standard by Which Basketball Excellence Is Measured!”: Michael Jordan Received the ‘Ultimate Praise’ From David Stern 30 Years Before NBA’s ‘Major Move’

Michael Jordan is undoubtedly one of the greatest players of all time. Having accumulated the second-highest number of MVPs with five, tailing only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s six, Jordan is an absolute legend. So much so, that in 2022, the NBA decided to rename the MVP trophy after him. But, 30 years prior to this groundbreaking decision, he received an even higher honor, as praise was showered upon him by then-commissioner David Stern, who referred to him as “the standard by which basketball excellence is measured”.

The NBA decided to change the name of the MVP trophy as an homage to MJ. With five MVP awards to his name and a plethora of other honors, Jordan has long been considered the GOAT of basketball. And, it looks like the NBA has finally ended the debate. But, David Stern knew this way back in 1992. Seeing as he bestowed His Airness with the highest praise possible.

David Stern heaped praise on Michael Jordan as he handed him his third MVP trophy in 1992

Drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1984, Michael Jordan was a brilliant player from the get-go. His incredible skill set coupled with his high-flying capabilities made him a walking bucket. And, for 15 seasons, he showcased exactly why he was given the title of GOAT. However, his greatness only started to be recognized in 1991.

Up to that point, Jordan was considered to be a superb talent. He had six scoring championships to his name, two MVPs, and a host of other awards, but he was missing the all-elusive NBA Championship. But, that changed in the 1991 season, where he won his first of six.

Since then, His Airness has displayed nothing but dominance. So, in 1992, then-NBA Commissioner David Stern decided to honor Jordan. Not only did he hand him his third MVP award, but he lavished the legendary guard with the highest praise. Crediting him for being the pinnacle of greatness and the standard bearer for both the league and basketball as a whole.

“Six straight scoring titles, three MVPs. You are simply the standard by which basketball excellence is measured!”

Such passionate words certainly must have touched Jordan. And, it is definitely a moment he holds dearly. After all, he had a great relationship with David Stern, a man he respected and had a great admiration for.

MJ mourned David Stern’s passing and credited him for making the NBA what it is today

On January 1st, 2020 David Stern passed away after suffering a brain hemorrhage. It was a devastating blow to the basketball community, all of whom mourned his passing. Many shared their thoughts and condolences, but Michael Jordan, who was good friends with Stern sent out a particularly heartfelt message.

One that thanked Stern for everything and credited him as the man who made the NBA an international phenomenon.

Stern was a shining example as a commissioner. One who’s business model and views for sports, let alone basketball is looked up to by commissioners all across the industry. He truly was a great leader.