Michael Jordan returned to the NBA in 2001 as both a player and the president of basketball operations for the Wizards. Despite the allure of reuniting with Barkley, he prioritized the franchise’s long-term strategy over nostalgia.

Michael Jordan torched the Nets for 45 points, showcasing his elite scoring ability at the age of 40. His performance included 10 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals, emphasizing his skill and longevity in the league, despite competing for the struggling Wizards.

LeBron James ruled out the possibility of a late-career comeback similar to Michael Jordan's return with the Washington Wizards, emphasizing that when he decides to retire, it will be definitive. This comparison highlights the contrasting approaches to retirement and legacy between two of the game's greatest players.

Michael Jordan is noted for having averaged 22.4 points in 30 games after turning 40 during his final season, highlighting the rarity of maintaining high scoring levels at that age. He is one of only a few players to have scored more than 10 points in a season after turning 40, showcasing the exceptional nature of longevity in the NBA.