Michael Jordan has faced plenty of battles on the court, but this week he confronted a far deeper loss. The NBA legend issued a heartfelt statement after the passing of George Raveling, his longtime mentor and friend, who died at age 88 following a battle with cancer.
A Coach, A Connector, A Friend
Raveling’s résumé stretched across decades of basketball. He served as head coach at Washington State, Iowa, and USC from 1972 to 1994, later taking on a key role at Nike as the company’s global basketball sports marketing director.
It was during his time with Team USA’s Olympic staffs in 1984 and 1988 that Raveling built his bond with Jordan. Beyond coaching, he played a pivotal role in history, convincing MJ to sign with Nike and introducing him to Sonny Vaccaro. Without that connection, as Jordan himself admitted, “there would be no Air Jordan.”
Jordan’s Heartfelt Statement
“I’m deeply saddened to hear about George’s passing,” Jordan said, reflecting on a relationship that spanned more than 40 years. “For more than 40 years, he blessed my life with wisdom, encouragement, and friendship. He was a mentor in every sense and I’ll always carry deep gratitude for his guidance.”
Jordan added that Raveling “lived an extraordinary life, breaking barriers and paving the way for so many who came after him.” He closed his statement with condolences to Raveling’s family and friends.
A Legacy That Transcended the Game
NBA commissioner Adam Silver also paid tribute, calling Raveling “one of the most revered individuals in all of basketball.” He praised Raveling’s poise, dignity, and barrier-breaking career, noting his influence stretched far beyond the sidelines.
From his coaching success to his cultural impact at Nike, Raveling shaped both the business and the beauty of the sport. His mentorship of Michael Jordan ensures that his name will forever be woven into basketball history.
Final Word
For Jordan, the loss is more than professional. It’s deeply personal. His statement makes clear that Raveling wasn’t just a coach or an executive. He was a guiding force.
And as MJ himself admitted, the legend of “Air Jordan” might never have existed without George Raveling.
