How Old Was Jordan In 1998

Let’s be honest—when someone asks, “How old was Jordan in 1998?” you probably picture Michael Jordan soaring through the air in his Chicago Bulls jersey, right? And your first guess might be something like “mid-thirties.” Well, hold onto your high-tops, because the answer is 35. That’s it. Thirty-five years old. And yet, in that very year, he was winning his sixth NBA championship, his sixth Finals MVP award, and burying the game-winning shot in Game 6 against the Utah Jazz. Go figure.

Ages are just numbers, baby!

Think about what you were doing at 35—or imagine what you will be doing. Maybe you were starting a family, switching careers, or finally figuring out how to adult. Jordan? He was dominating the world’s most athletic league like a man half his age. He wasn’t just “still playing”—he was the best player on the planet. That’s not a coincidence; that’s a choice.

Here’s the kicker: Jordan was already considered old in basketball years. Most players retire by their mid-30s, or at least slow way, way down. But MJ? He treated Father Time like a rookie trying to guard him on the baseline. He worked harder, trained smarter, and refused to let a number define his limits. Sound familiar? It should—because that’s a lesson for all of us.

Why this matters to your life (yes, yours)

So, why does Jordan’s age in ’98 make life more fun? Because it’s a playful gut-check. Next time you catch yourself thinking, “I’m too old to start that hobby,” or “I’m too young to take that risk,” just whisper to yourself: “Jordan was 35 in 1998.” He didn’t peak in his 20s—he peaked in his mid-30s. That’s not a fluke; that’s a permission slip.

Think about it: In 1998, he was older than the average age of every single player on the court. And he still destroyed them. Not with raw speed—he couldn’t out-sprint the kids anymore—but with cunning, with experience, and with a fire that said, “Your turn will come, but not today, young fella.” That’s the kind of energy you can channel into anything: learning an instrument, starting a business, or finally getting into shape.

We Remember: Michael Jordan Hits Game-Winner to Win 6th Title in 1998

Let’s have some fun with it

Here’s a little game: Next time you look in the mirror, pretend you’re a basketball announcer. “And here comes [Your Name], at age [Your Age]—a real veteran now, but watch the footwork!” Suddenly, your age feels like a secret weapon, not an expiration date. Because if 35-year-old Jordan could still make a 22-year-old look silly, then you can absolutely crush that project at work or nail that dance move at your niece’s wedding.

And the best part? Jordan didn’t stop there. He came back at age 38 to play for the Washington Wizards. He wasn’t as good, sure—but he showed up. That alone makes him a legend of persistence. So whether you’re 18 or 88, remember: the game isn’t about how old you are. It’s about how alive you are in the moment.

Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls stands during the 1998 NBA

An inspiring note to take with you

So here’s your takeaway: The world loves to tell you that your “best years” are behind you by the time you hit 30. But 1998’s Jordan laughs at that idea. He proved that the best is often still to come, if you’re bold enough to keep chasing it. Your age is just the number on the back of your imaginary jersey. The real stat? How much heart you bring to the court of life.

Go ahead—look up Jordan’s 1998 stats. Read about his flu game. Watch that shot. And then ask yourself: “What amazing thing can I do at my current age that would make 1998 Jordan nod in approval?” The answer might surprise you. And the journey to find it? That’s where the real fun begins.