James Jordan Jr., better known as Ronnie, is the oldest of basketball icon Michael Jordan’s siblings. He was born in 1960 and is six years Michael’s senior. Although less renowned than his brother, Ronnie had a significant influence on Michael’s life. His impact influenced Michael’s work ethic and competitiveness, which contributed significantly to his success on the basketball court.
Quick Facts About James Jordan Jr.
| Full Name | James Ronald Jordan Jr. (Ronnie) |
| Birthdate | 1960 |
| Occupation | Former U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major |
| Husband/Wife | Not known |
| Education | High school graduate; participated in U.S. Army Junior ROTC |
| Age | 65 years and 5 months old |
| Parents | James Jeffrey Jordan (father), Deloris Peoples (mother) |
| Siblings | Deloris E. Jordan, Roslyn Jordan, Larry Jordan, Michael Jordan |
| Children | Not known |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Background
James Ronald Jordan Jr. was raised in Wilmington, North Carolina, along with his siblings. The Jordans had a five-acre estate where they spent their time together. They participated in a variety of different sports, such as basketball, football, and baseball. This supportive competition created the strong relationship among the siblings and played an immense part in Michael’s motivation to achieve.
Ronnie demonstrated a strong sense of discipline at an early age. He attended three years of high school in the U.S. Army Junior ROTC program. Upon graduation, he made a choice that would determine the direction of his life. Two days after graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Army. Ronnie’s military career started at an early age, and it was something that had a deep impact on his character.
Role in the Life of Michael Jordan
The role of Ronnie in the life of Michael was significant. Michael’s family was highly competitive. This greatly affected Michael, particularly during his young age. As much as many times Michael claimed that fighting competition with his brothers, particularly Ronnie, made him strive to master basketball so early, he confessed that it really wasn’t always easy competing.
As a kid, Michael would compete against his siblings in the backyard, playing games and attempting to outdo each other. Ronnie, being the oldest and more skilled, was usually a tough opponent. This stiff competition provided Michael with the confidence and resolve that he would eventually display on the basketball court. Michael will often give credit to his siblings for being partially responsible for his desire to be successful.
Later Life and Accomplishments
Although Ronnie is not quite as well-known as Michael or his other brother, Larry, he has built a reputation in his own name. After several years of serving in the Army, Ronnie also had a highly successful career. He achieved the rank of Command Sergeant Major, demonstrating leadership and commitment throughout. Ronnie served the U.S. Served in the Army for more than 30 years, a distinct indication of his strong personality and dedication to his nation.
Despite his success, Ronnie has led a low-key life in public. He doesn’t crave publicity or fame as his younger brother, Michael. Nevertheless, among the Jordan clan, Ronnie is greatly admired. He is regarded as a model and a man who played a significant role in molding Michael’s personality. Ronnie’s unassuming leadership and guidance were instrumental during the difficult periods the family encountered, particularly when their father, James Jordan Sr., was brutally murdered in 1993.
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The Jordan Family Bond
The Jordan family is close-knit. Ronnie’s relationship with Michael, Larry, and their sisters, Deloris and Roslyn, is a close one of great love and support. The family remained together through ups and downs during childhood and especially so after losing their father.
Ronnie’s position in the family goes beyond that of a brother to also serve as a mentor. His hard work and tenacity are traits Michael looked up to. Michael frequently discussed how his family drove him to be the best, and Ronnie was a major influence on that. Their bond as family is strong, and although Ronnie remains out of the limelight, his presence in Michael’s life cannot be questioned.
