It is almost surreal how most NBA players come from humble backgrounds and violent backdrops to later establish their non-profits. Philanthropy decisions become very important to players as they gain financial freedom. Take, for example, Michael Jordan. The Bulls legend has been very generous in giving away a part of his fortune for the betterment of society.

But just like the case with almost anything, one can never satisfy everybody no matter what. So recently, something caught the attention of an American stand-up comedian and he went on camera to express his distaste.

Aries Spears with a cryptic message for Michael Jordan

Aries, a Manhattan-born writer, actor, and comedian posted a video and revealed a story where MJ caught him off-guard. The MAD TV fame discussed his experience of dealing with homeless people and then called out Michael Jordan.

Citing the reference of MJ and Charles Barkley’s famous interview with Oprah Winfrey, the 46-YO detailed, “I don’t need your money anyway, n—-. Charles Barkley was on Oprah and he told a story about Michael Jordan in a Limo. When he got off the road, Barkley rolls down the window, the dude asked him for money, he goes and give him a change. Michael Jordan slaps his hands, he goes, ‘don’t give him no change. If he can say can I have some spare change? He can also say welcome to McDonalds, may I help you?’ Now I know many people will go ‘Aww, that’s f—ed up’. But if you take out the emotion, what is he really saying? That’s not accurate.”

While MJ might never react to this message, it appeared that Aries was quite mad at him. 

MJ and his works of philanthropy

Back in 2001-02, MJ donated his entire year’s salary from the league towards the 9/11 related causes. Then, he raised $7 million from a celebrity Golf Tournament and contributed towards various funds.

Later, he donated to NAACP Legal Defense Fund in 2016 and also towards Smithsonian National Museum of African American History, totalling $6 million. 

Most recently, he donated to the Friends of the Children in 2018 and followed it by his $20 million 2020 donation to social-justice groups.

For sure, Michael’s way of discarding the plea for money to that homeless man can seem outright rude, but it is a matter of perspective. So, there are people who call MJ a gambler, some see him as a helper, and some others find him a game-changer. He is not Shaquille O’Neal who would go out and distribute free pizzas, but he has his own way of doing good things.

What’s your view on Air Jordan’s way of giving back to society? Is it a yay or a nay? Help us know in the comments.

Watch this story – When Barack Obama Awarded a Medal to Michael Jordan