Michael Jordan becomes first billionaire athlete

Michael Jordan. AP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Michael Jordan is not only recognized as basketball’s greatest of all time, he also became the first billionaire athlete.

According to forbes.com, “His Airness” soared into the prestigious billionaires club, joining 289 other newcomers.

Jordan’s most valuable asset, his stake in the Charlotte Hornets franchise in the NBA, is estimated at about $500 million.

Apart from being the majority owner of the Hornets, the 52-year-old Jordan, who won six championships with the Chicago Bulls, also has been earning loads from The Jordan Brand.

“Most of his cash comes from Nike payouts on his iconic brand. The Jordan brand grossed an estimated $2.25 billion in 2013, earning his Airness some $90 million,” the article read.

Three other NBA owners made it to the list with Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf, Clippers’ Steve Ballmer and Rockets owner Leslie Alexander.

With his latest feat, Jordan also beat another NBA superstar in LeBron James in becoming the first billionaire athlete.

James is the highest earner among NBA players and the No.3 overall in the highest paid athletes list, earning $72.3 million last year according to Forbes.