The saga surrounding the buyer of Michael Jordan’s legendary Chicago estate has come to a close. After years of sitting on the market, the sprawling mansion has finally found a new owner in John Cooper, a former NBA player and real estate investor. Cooper, a lifelong fan of Jordan, has purchased the estate for $9.5 million—far below its original listing price of $29 million back in 2012.
This acquisition marks a significant chapter in the property’s storied history. The mansion, known for its extravagant design and array of luxurious amenities, was built during Jordan’s prime years with the Chicago Bulls, when he led the team to six NBA championships. Despite its age, the estate remains an architectural marvel and a testament to the legacy of the basketball icon.
A Mansion Fit for a Legend
The estate, which spans over seven acres of land and 56,000 square feet of living space, is the ultimate expression of opulence and exclusivity. Among its many features are a regulation-sized basketball court, a circular infinity pool, a putting green, a tennis court, and even a cigar lounge—each space crafted with Jordan’s personal touch and designed to offer the best in both relaxation and recreation.
The mansion’s most iconic feature is its grand entrance gate, emblazoned with Jordan’s signature number 23. This symbol of greatness and success has become synonymous with the property, and Cooper has vowed to preserve it while also adding his own flair to the estate. The real estate investor plans to make some exciting updates to the mansion next month, ensuring that Jordan’s legacy remains intact while modernizing the property for his own needs.
John Cooper’s Connection to the Property
John Cooper, who grew up in Nebraska and enjoyed a brief NBA career, has long been a fan of Michael Jordan. Cooper’s admiration for the basketball legend grew during Jordan’s dominant run with the Bulls in the 1990s. “My favorite player to watch was always Jordan. He made shots that seemed impossible, and he got it done on defense too,” Cooper shared with the Lincoln Journal Star.
Cooper’s lifelong dream of owning the mansion became a reality when he purchased the property after years of being on the market. He is not just a fan of the estate for its grandeur but also for the history it holds. The mansion, with all its features, represents a chapter in NBA history, one in which Jordan cemented his place as the greatest basketball player of all time.
A Legacy of Excellence
Michael Jordan’s wealth extends far beyond the basketball court. Forbes estimates his net worth at a staggering $3 billion, making him the first professional athlete to join the Forbes 400 list of America’s wealthiest individuals. His success, both on and off the court, has been built on smart investments and enduring business ventures, including his groundbreaking partnership with Nike, which produced the Air Jordan brand.
Jordan also made a strategic move in the sports world by acquiring the Charlotte Hornets, a decision that has paid off handsomely. Additionally, Jordan’s portfolio extends to real estate, with several properties in his name. These include his recently sold Chicago estate, a lakefront house and condo in North Carolina, a vacation home in Park City, Utah, and a residence at The Bears Club in Jupiter, Florida, where he is reportedly based.
Jordan has also ventured into other industries, such as sports betting and auto racing. He is an investor and special advisor for DraftKings, a leading sports-betting company, and co-owns a NASCAR team.
The Future of the Mansion
Cooper’s acquisition of the estate not only ensures that Michael Jordan’s legacy is preserved but also offers the opportunity for a new chapter in the mansion’s story. The home, with its rich history and connection to one of the greatest basketball players of all time, will remain a symbol of success, excellence, and luxury.
With Cooper already embracing the property’s past while looking toward its future, the mansion will continue to be a place where the legacy of Michael Jordan lives on, both as a testament to his achievements and as a personal playground for those who admire his greatness.