Thomas Jordan (basketball)

Thomas Edward Jordan (born May 23, 1968) is an American former professional basketball player whose career spanned from 1988 to 2003.[1][2][3][4][5]

Jordan played college basketball at Oklahoma State University. He was ineligible as a freshman in 1987–88, and in his sophomore year, he averaged 13.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.[6] Jordan's decision to leave college early to play professionally was due to a lack of team chemistry.[6]

Jordan said that he never "enjoyed" basketball, he only "played it."[7] He used the sport as a means to get a free college education, and any desires of playing professionally was not necessarily his goal.[7] In October 1998, Jordan said, "If the air blew up the ball, I'm not going to cry. Don't get me wrong, I won't turn down a pro career if that comes, but I'm not counting on it."[7] He then went on to play for 14 years in six countries after his sophomore year in 1988–89.

Jordan also played in the National Basketball Association. In April 1993, Jordan was signed as a free agent by the Philadelphia 76ers, and played in the final four games of the 1992–93 season averaging 11.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.[8]