Michael Jordan played 15 NBA seasons, spending most of his career with the Chicago Bulls and later with the Washington Wizards. To put it simply, michael jordan played how many years in the NBA? The answer is 15 seasons of legendary basketball.
When did Michael Jordan retire?
- First retirement: October 6, 1993, after winning three straight championships with the Bulls.
- Second retirement: January 13, 1999, following his sixth Bulls title.
- Final retirement: April 16, 2003, with the Wizards.
In total, MJ retired three times: twice as a player and once from his final comeback.
How many seasons did Michael Jordan play?
Jordan logged 15 NBA seasons overall
- Chicago Bulls: 13 seasons (1984–93, 1995–98).
- Washington Wizards: 2 seasons (2001–03).
Michael Jordan Career Timeline
What year did Michael Jordan start playing basketball?
- NBA debut: 1984–85 with the Chicago Bulls, drafted 3rd overall
Chicago Bulls years (1984–93, 1995–98)
Key highlights:
- Rookie of the Year, 1985.
- First six scoring titles.
- Two “three-peats”: 1991–93 and 1996–98.
- Total of 13 seasons with the Bulls.
Baseball Break & Comeback
- Retired in 1993, pursued baseball in 1994.
- Returned via fax, “I’m back” in March 1995.
Washington Wizards years (2001–03)
- Human interest comeback, donated salary for 9/11 relief.
- Played two seasons (2001–02, 2002–03), with averages of 22.9 and 20.0 ppg.
- Final retirement in April 2003.
How long was Michael Jordan in the NBA?
Jordan’s NBA tenure spanned from his debut in October 1984 until April 2003—totaling nearly 19 years calendar-wise, including retirements, but 15 active playing seasons.
How many times did Michael Jordan retire?
Jordan had three retirements:
- 1993 (first),
- 1999 (second),
- 2003 (final).
Michael Jordan’s Age When He Retired
- First retirement: age 30 (1993).
- Second: age 35 (1999).
- Final retirement: age 40 (2003)
Michael Jordan NBA Seasons Total
- NBA seasons: 15 total (13 with Bulls, 2 with Wizards).
Michael Jordan Comeback Year
- First comeback: 1995 to finish out with the Bulls.
- Second comeback: 2001 with the Wizards
How many years did MJ play in the NBA?
Answering again: Michael Jordan played 15 years across three distinct periods—the Bulls dynasty era, his comeback, and his final run with the Wizards.
Michael Jordan Wizards Years
- Washington Wizards: played 2001–02 and 2002–03 seasons, retiring at age 40.
Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls Years
- Chicago Bulls: played 1984–93 and 1995–98, winning six championships and earning 13 seasons.
Michael Jordan Basketball History
From Rookie of the Year to 6× NBA champion, 5× MVP, and global icon, Jordan’s career defined modern basketball.
Michael Jordan’s NBA Debut Year
- 1984–85 season with the Chicago Bulls, a breakout rookie year with 28.2 ppg.
Michael Jordan Final NBA Season
- 2002–03 season with the Wizards, concluding on April 16, 2003, at age 40.
Conclusion
Michael Jordan played 15 NBA seasons across three distinct eras (Bulls dynasty, comeback, Wizards), retiring three times and finishing his final season at the age of 40. Clearly, the answer to Michael Jordan How many years is 15 seasons across 19 calendar years, marking one of basketball’s most storied careers.
Join the Discussion: Michael Jordan Played How Many Years
Love MJ’s story? Browse our store for basketball-themed T-shirts, jerseys, wall art & more. Got thoughts on how many years Michael Jordan played for how many years or his Wizards era? Please drop a comment and follow us on social media!
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Michael Jordan’s total NBA career span?
He played 15 NBA seasons, from 1984 to 2003, over almost 19 calendar years.
How many retirements did Jordan have?
He retired three times: 1993, 1999, and 2003.
What age was MJ when he retired for the final time?
He was 40 years old during his final 2002–03 season.
Which seasons did Jordan play for the Wizards?
He suited up for the Washington Wizards in the 2001–02 and 2002–03 seasons.
When did Michael Jordan return from his first retirement?
He returned in March 1995, famously faxing two words: “I’m back.”