Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the best basketball players of all time, but his career was not without its ups and downs. Juanita Vanoy, his ex-wife was by his side through all of it. While his professional achievements are legendary, his personal life has also been riddled with difficulties.
His connection with Juanita Vanoy was a crucial factor that affected his retirement choices. She wanted Michael to spend more time with their family, and didn’t back down from expressing herself, even if it meant being labeled a “bi*ch.” She further stated “I know it makes me look like a bitch, but I can’t worry about it because I’m protecting what we have. If that is what I have to be, then I will be a bitch.”
She understood the sacrifices that came with being married to an NBA superstar. Additionally, the demands placed on his time and energy. But Vanoy creates a balance between Jordan’s career and their family life.
Juanita Vanoy wanted Michael Jordan to spend more time with their family
Michael Jordan and Juanita Vanoy met at a Bennigan’s near Chicago in the late 1980s and fell in love. Juanita was a loan officer at the time, while Michael had begun to make waves as an exciting Bulls player.
They married in a simple ceremony at the Little Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas in September 1989, wearing jeans. They were already parents to their three children, Jeffrey, Marques, and Jasmine.
Jordan expressed his desire to spend more time with his family after his initial retirement from the Bulls in 1993. However, he soon found himself going after a career in minor-league baseball. Regardless of this detour, he eventually came back to the Bulls. And retired for the second time in 1999, to prioritize his role as a father.
Juanita, who rarely appeared in public with him. Joked that she believed Michael to do more carpooling during this phase of his life. In her own words, “I see Michael doing more carpooling.” Nonetheless, Michael’s return to the NBA was unavoidable, and he took a front-office position with the Washington Wizards.
However, his love for the game eventually led him to go back to the court as a player, taking on his familiar forward position.
Juanita was a significant figure in Michael Jordan‘s life, acting as a steady and supportive presence behind the scenes. She served as a buffer, assisting him in striking a balance between his public and private lives. Juanita demonstrated her protective nature and determination to preserve their family bond by being willing to say “no” when necessary.
I wonder what Juanita Vanoy (formerly known as Juanita Jordan) feels about #TheLastDance? They were married for 17 years. From a documenting history perspective, NOBODY knows the Jordan Era like his wife. pic.twitter.com/2hzDzhVypy
— L E F T, PhD ⚫️ (@LeftSentThis) May 18, 2020
In an interview with Ebony magazine, she honestly stated, “I have no problem saying no. If someone didn’t step up and say no, there would be no time for his family… I know it makes me look like a bitch, but I can’t worry about it because I’m protecting what we have. If that is what I have to be, then I will be a bitch.” She displayed her love and devotion through her unwavering dedication to their family’s well-being.
Additionally, despite popular belief, Juanita was unapologetic about her safeguarding nature. And her readiness to say no when it came to putting first family time. She prioritized protecting their family bond, even if it meant facing negative portrayals.
To summarize, while Michael Jordan’s extraordinary basketball career strengthened his place in sports history, it is critical to recognize the individuals who played pivotal roles off the court. Juanita Vanoy, his ex-wife, stood by his side and made sure that their family remained a priority despite the demands of his basketball career.
Her determination to protect their family unit and make difficult decisions demonstrated the depth of her dedication. Michael’s numerous retirement comebacks not only demonstrated his unwavering passion for the game, but also shed light on the challenges of balancing fame, career, and family.
