Friday Evening, April 5th

Marcus Jordan, son of Michael Jordan, turned back to me and with the enthusiasm one might show in seeing a 20-year-long friend, said, “Hey man!  It’s so great to see you!!!!”

Following handshakes, small-talk, laughs and smiles, he inquisitively asked, “Have you been introduced to my Dad, yet??”

After a short – are you serious! – hesitation on my part, I replied, “Um…well, not formally.”

“Let’s Go!” he encouraged, and away we were, weaving our way to the Dream!

Hopeful

I took the five hour long flight to Las Vegas with my wife, filled with hope!  

Here was another opportunity to realize the dream that is mevsMJ.com.  Another chance to prove to everyone, what I’ve been saying for years now, that Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

I can honestly share with you that this trip to Las Vegas, that I’m about to describe, BLEW THE CEILING OFF of any expectations of mine.

There were several moments throughout the days in which, Charissa (wife) and I looked at one another in utter amazement.

The dream was coming true, after all of this time, right before our eyes!

And with that – I’m excited to share with you, the most amazing step or better put, gigantic leap, in this journey to date.  I hope you enjoy the stories, pictures and videos.  Most of all, I hope that when you leave this post…you believe.

Vegas – MJCI

Charissa and I arrived in Las Vegas, early Wednesday morning to find an unusual chill in dry desert air.  Surely, the remnants of the cold front that had just passed through.

We weren’t in Vegas to gamble or see shows, though we would do the latter.

We were there for the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational.

More specifically, we were there for the invite only – Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Gala!

A great friend and supporter of this journey had called me, just two weeks prior, to let me know that he had two tickets for us to attend the exclusive event!

After checking in at our hotel, I was informed that we would also have VIP access for each day of the four day long (Thursday-Sunday) golf invitational.  Truly an unexpected treat that would greatly alter the course of our trip!

This was about to be the most epic experience of my life.

Thursday | MJCI – MJ Laughs

We arrived at the picturesque Shadow Creek golf course, site of the MJCI, just after 10:30 ante meridiem.

As the shuttle bus, used to bring guests from ticket check-in, to the tournament, made its way down the winding drive and through golf’s equivalent of Area 51, we passed Michael Jordan’s foursome on the 5th tee, waiting to tee off.

Off of the bus, my wife and I made our way over to the 5th green, where just a handful of people would be found.

Moments later, cutting through the quiet, chilled morning came music shouting from the coolest, custom Carolina blue, Jordan, golf cart these eyes have ever seen.

It was of course, the one and only Michael Jordan!

As MJ, now out of his cart and walking up the pathway towards the green, came my way, I said hello, we SHOOK HANDS and he asked me how I was doing!

With Jordan now, just a step past me, I called out, “me versus MJ dot com.”

Still walking towards the green, and without looking back, a smile came over Michael’s face and he let out a small chuckle.

Amazingly, within minutes – contact with MJ had been made!

But it gets better!

As Michael walked from the hole and got back into his cart, I politely called his name, “Hey Michael,” and asked, “What do you think about mevsMJ?”

Jordan, turning back and now looking directly at me, smiled again with a cigar wedged in his mouth, let out a hearty laugh and drove away with security in tow.

httpvh://youtu.be/9Z2Y37Vm_LQ

There was no doubt that Michael Jordan now knew I was there and he seemed to enjoy it!

We followed the the growing Jordan gallery around for another hole or two, ate some lunch and called it what it was, an amazing day!

Friday | MJCI – MJ Acknowledges mevsMJ.com & Says He’ll Play Me Anytime!

We arrived back at the tournament, just after nine in the morning on Friday.

After watching Michael tee off on the first and then third holes, we walked around a bit and decided to make our way to the 5th green again and wait for his group to come through.

I wanted to have some sort of tasteful interaction with MJ on this day as well.  I of course had a goal to accomplish, which was to do my best to make this dream a reality, but I didn’t want to be a bother to him in any way.

I really had no clue what I would ask him and then it came to me.

Do You Believe Anything Is Possible?

As Michael’s group made their way to the 5th green, MJ pulled his cart right up off of the edge of the fringe.  A change from the day before.  It made sense though, as the gallery following him had more than doubled from the prior day.

As Jordan turned his cart around and drove off of the green, I asked him something extremely important in making mevsMJ.com a reality, “Michael, do you believe that Anything Is Possible?”

Biting down on his familiar cigar, the greatest basketball player of all-time nodded in agreement and said, “Yes, I do.”

He then said something I never expected, “Nice shoes!”

The shoes – Jordan’s of course.

httpvh://youtu.be/lPmtCq_cpTU

Ultra Observant

It’s a known fact that Michael Jordan always looks at people’s feet.  He’s looking to see what kind of shoes they are wearing.  He does it quickly.  Most never notice.  (Go back and watch the above video again.  Right before he gets in the cart, you’ll see him look over in my direction.)

On Thursday and prior to the interaction above, there were a few times, as MJ stood waiting to take his next shot, that I saw him look over in my direction.

There is no doubt in my mind that he was very aware of myself and the mevsMJ.com that was across my sweater.

At times, it appeared to me that he actually got a kick out of it.

MJ Says I Won’t Win and He’ll Play Me Anytime!

After watching Michael’s group tee off on the 6th hole, my wife wanted to wait and see Mauricio Umanksy.  Who was I, to argue with that?  After all, she had come clear across the country to support me and the dream, just as she’s supported me since day one.  Umansky is known by most from appearing on the Bravo Network show, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

This decision to wait, and not follow MJ’s group – was PIVOTAL.

At this point, Jordan’s group had driven their carts nearly out of sight, down the fairway.

It was literally just Charissa and myself standing there, just off of the 6th tee, waiting.

Then all of a sudden, I look up and here comes Michael’s carolina blue golf cart back our way!

Behind the wheel, MJ himself!

Apparently, there was a private restroom built into the hill of the golf course right off from where we were standing.

As MJ exited the facilities, I thought that it would be a perfect time to ask for a picture.

My reasoning, simply because there was NO ONE around.  I wouldn’t have asked if there had been.

So I asked, “Michael, could I get a picture!?” and then, the MOST AMAZING THING HAPPENED!

As kindly as one could, when declining, MJ answered, “I can’t do it right now, man.”

Then Michael Jordan took it to a place that I’VE ONLY DREAMED ABOUT! 

“mevsMJ.com, huh?” an engaged Jordan shot my way, as he got back in his cart.

Now smiling, I replied, “What do you think?”

“You Won’t Win!  You Won’t Win!,” he quipped with a smile.

Living the dream, I eagerly asked, “When can we play!?”

“Anytime!” a playful Jordan fired back!

Doing my best to seize the moment, I shouted, “I’m Ready!!!”

That evoked a laugh from MJ, as he drove away!

I turned back to my wife, who had fortunately been recording the interaction and neither of us could believe what had just occurred!

Michael Jeffrey Jordan had just acknowledged my website (mevsMJ.com), made a prediction on the game of me versus him, and said he would play anytime!

After over three years and seven months of unwavering faith and unmeasurable amounts of effort, Michael Jordan had just acknowledged my dream!

AND to make things even sweeter, MJ had done so by talking some trash to me, which I LOVED!

Such a dream come true!

httpvh://youtu.be/RgJIPgzd7ks

Fred Whitfield – A Major Supporter

Still astonished by what had just happened, Umansky’s group arrived at the hole.

Just after taking a picture of Mauricio and my wife, I turned and saw none other than President/COO of the Charlotte Bobcats and one of MJ’s closest allies, Fred Whitfield.

I had last spoken to Mr. Whitfield back in March of 2013 at a Charlotte Bobcats event in Charlotte, North Carolina.  It was there where he gave me his business card and encouraged me to email him more details on what mevsMJ.com is all about.  A major step, even though I never received a response from my sent message.

After catching up Mr. Whitfield on my recent job change and some small talk, I asked if he had ever received my email.

He stated that he had and that he LOVES what I’m doing!

When I began explaining to him that it’s not about trying to beat MJ and that the real goal to to inspire others and prove that Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work, he ensured me that HE UNDERSTOOD.  He let me know that HE GOT IT!

I acknowledged that it’s a HUGE ask with it being MJ, which Mr. Whitfield concurred, but then also encouraged me to see it through.

While standing side by side readying for our picture, he told Umansky, “This guy’s been trying to play MJ for a few years now!”

We said our goodbyes, shook hands and he let me know that it’d be great to have me up for a Bobcats Playoff game.

I left the interaction feeling like I had gained a major supporter.  My fear that perhaps my journey had been misinterpreted, was put to rest.

The day really couldn’t have gotten any better…BUT it did!

Friday Night | MJCI Gala – A picture with and introduction to Michael Jordan!

We arrived at the Gala, just after 7:45 pm.  This exclusive, invite only, event was the reason we had come to Vegas.  Of course we had no clue that Thursday and Friday at the tournament would be so fruitful!

I was dressed in a black suit, with a blue tie and pocket square to match my black and blue low top Jordans.  My wife looked amazing, as always, in a Roberto Cavalli sequin dress with velvet appliqué, that caught just the right amount of light.

We walked into the gala filled with hope!  After all, the day had already been jaw droppingly staggering.

As we entered the cocktail reception, centered in the room was a man in a white suit on a white oval stage accompanied by a white piano.  He stood and performed song after song.  On both ends, tapas being served from various restaurants from within the Aria resort.  Surrounding the performer, curved, long white sofas making up relaxed group seating.  Standing tables, covered in white linen, lined the outer perimeter.  Chandeliers accented the room.

Walking about, Toni Kukoc, Dr. J, Ron Harper, Aaron Rodgers, Stuart Scott, Bruce Jenner, Ken Griffey, Jr., Penny Hardaway, Boyz II Men, and the list goes on and on.  At one point, Julius Erving was literally sitting four feet from me.

After a little over an hour, the doors opened to the magnicifent main ballroom and in walked Michael Jordan.

Jordan, surrounded by six large security guards, two at his front, two on the side and two behind, stopped to talk with Ahmad Rashad and Dr. J.

Even at this invite only event, it was wild to witness people take their phones out and take pictures of Jordan as he stood there talking.  Camera flashes lit up the interaction.

In a room full of celebrities, there was a defined difference in how the Global icon was perceived by those in attendance.  Everyone wants a piece of Michael Jordan.

Within the ballroom, were around 100 assigned tables – 10 people per table.  Stuart Scott had shared with me a few moments earlier, that no one does an event like MJ and he was right!  It was gorgeous!

httpvh://youtu.be/dq-AfQtgKZI

There were three ways you were at this event.  The first, you were a celebrity.  Second, you were a major tournament sponsor.  Lastly, you were a high roller that the resort had invited.

It just so happened that my table was right in the line of where MJ chose to enter the ballroom.

Standing at the table, I waved at Jordan as he walked into the nearly empty ballroom with his security team.  The majority of people, still taking advantage of the open bar, which unbeknownst to them, also extended into the evening festivities as well.

As I waved, there was no real acknowledgement on his part as he quickly made his way to his table, located at the front of the room.

My wife encouraged me to go up to where he was seated, as others were attempting to do, but at that point he was enjoying time with friends and I didn’t feel it was the right time.  After all, he had just seen me.  My feeling was that if he wanted to stop and talk, he would have.  I wasn’t going to pester him.

For me it’s always a fine line to walk, between doing my best to accomplish my goal and being a bother to Michael Jordan.

I personally, NEVER, want to be a nuisance or make him feel uncomfortable.

If hovering by his table as he joked with friends, worked for those attempting to interact with the legend, then good for them.  That wasn’t going to be me.

It didn’t end up working for them either.  Security had them go back to their seats and the dinner and entertainment portion of the festivities began.

Magician and Comedian Justin Willman, of Cupcake Wars on Food Network, hosted the evening’s event.

After dinner, some jokes and magic tricks, including a funny moment with Jerome Bettis, T-Pain and George Clinton took over the stage.

At this point, I really thought the evening was pretty much over and my opportunity to have time with MJ gone.

I had possessed so much hope for the Gala.  I hoped that in this smaller, more “laid back” setting, I would be able to get some time with Jordan and really share my vision.

I guess even I underestimated the drawing power of Michael Jordan.

Life, even in a room full of famous people, just isn’t the same for the G.O.A.T.  There really is no down time for MJ, or at least there wouldn’t be without a team of security.

Even though I was disappointed, I could’t be down because of the astonishing events earlier in the day!

MJ had acknowledged the journey and as I stated earlier that was a MAJOR DREAM COME TRUE!

Satisfied with the evening, my wife said lets go up closer to the front.  I knew what she really wanted.  That was to dance.  At the front of the room, a dance floor hugged the stage.

Almost to where the dancing was taking place, I pulled her back and said that I’d really rather not dance.  I wasn’t alone when it came to guys not dancing.  Just about the only man dancing that night was Juan Pablo from the show, The Bachelor and he’s like a professional!  Dude can move!  Also have to share, he’s a nice guy.  We had ran into he and Nikki at the tournament and then again at the Gala as they were seated at a table just to the left of ours.

Then, at that moment, I looked over and just a few tables away, stood Jeff Jordan.

This is where everything changed.

Jeff Jordan – Family Support

I had never met Jeff Jordan.  Not in person any way.

We had connected through Twitter early in my journey, which I even wrote about for this site.  There were also a couple of pleasant interactions that followed over the years on Twitter and Instagram.  But never in person.

I walked over to Jeff, really not sure how things would go.  I just really wanted to say hello and introduce myself.

As T-Pain was performing, I tapped Jeff on the shoulder and he turned right around.

With as much excitement and enthusiasm as you could imagine anyone having, he said that it was so nice to finally meet me!

We talked for literally 10 minutes!

Truly one of the nicest people I’ve met.  Extremely humble and positive.

Jeff encouraged me the entire time, saying that he follows everything that I do for the site and loves it!  He told me that he thinks it’s amazing to look at where I started and where the journey is today!  He asked if there had been any updates thus far from the tournament and I excitedly shared how earlier in the day I had gotten video of his Dad talking about the website and saying that I wouldn’t win, to which he laughed and said that’s awesome!  He implored me to keep moving forward on the journey and then took it to another level!

He let me know that he was now working for Brand Jordan.  

I asked him if he was able to possibly do something for the site and he said ABSOLUTELY!  

Then Jeff BLEW MY MIND!

He told me that he’d love to have me up some time, do a Brand Jordan event and showcase everything!!!

Mind blown, I told him that would be amazing and asked how I could link up with him.

He said, “I’ll give you my number!  Do you have your phone with you?”

And with that, I could officially say that I had MAJOR, Jordan family support!

Truly Amazing!  Such a blessing!

I thanked Jeff for his time, asked for a picture and told him I look forward to getting together hopefully soon!

Marcus Jordan – Have You Been Introduced To My Dad?

Over the moon, by what had just happened, Charissa and I walked just a bit more before I spotted Marcus Jordan.

Almost a year and a half ago, I had met Marcus at a charity event in Orlando, Florida.

I told my wife, let me go say hello to Marcus and then we can go.

I walked over to the younger MJ, who was facing the stage, tapped him on the shoulder from behind and after turning around, he greeted me with the enthusiasm one might show in seeing a 20-year-long friend,  and said, “Hey man!  It’s so great to see you!!!!”

Following handshakes, small-talk, laughs and smiles, he inquisitively asked, “Have you been introduced to my Dad, yet??”

After a small – are you serious! – hesitation on my part, I replied, “Um…well, not formally.”

“Let’s Go!,” he encouraged, and away we were, weaving our way through people, behind Marcus on our way to the MJ in mevsMJ.com!

He walked us right up to his Dad, and with so much support said, “Dad, you’ve got to meet this guy!”

Marcus spoke a few more positive things into his Dad’s ear about me as the concert continued, some of which I couldn’t make out.  I did hear him mention this website and with that I was standing face to face with the one and only Michael Jeffrey Jordan!

I probably shook MJ’s hand four or five times in the couple of minutes that we shared, haha!

He took it all in stride.

I also was able to ask him his thoughts on the site and let him know how much he’s inspired me in my life.

Each time the taller Jordan, lowered his head to mine so that he could hear me clearly.

So very cordial.

While he played his thoughts on mevsMJ.com close to the chest, I could see the genuine humility in his eyes and expression as he thanked me for the kind words.

I asked him if I could get a picture and he responded, “Sure!”

Marcus then interjected, “I’ll take it!” and I handed him my camera!

And that is how the greatest Michael Jordan picture I’ve ever seen, came to be.

They say a picture says a 1,ooo words – but this one can’t be measured.  It’s more than a picture.  It gives hope to everyone that sees it.

As we walked back to Marcus’ table, he turned and playfully said, “Don’t say I’ve never done anything for ya!”

We then took a picture together and I thanked him profusely for his extreme act of kindness.

He humbly downplayed it, saying, “No problem!”

The reality of the situation though is that I could never ever receive a warmer or better introduction to Michael Jordan than the one his son, Marcus, had just given me.

He took it upon himself and stopped what he was doing, TO HELP ME!

That amazing act of kindness spoke volumes to me as to how the Jordan family views my journey that is mevsMJ.com.

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

As my wife and I began to walk out of the party, we stopped by Mr. Whitfield’s table and I thanked him again for the kind words and encouragement he had given me earlier in the day.

What an amazing day it had been!

Almost every part of the dream had just come true in the most magnificent, storybook like way!

The eight words that I’ve been telling anyone that will listen, stood up proud and proved true for the World to see!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

Saturday and Sunday | MJCI – Acceptance

Early Saturday morning, Charissa headed back to Orlando, as she had a prior charitable engagement to attend that night.  I stayed through Monday morning and took in the last two days of the MJCI.

Over the two day period of Saturday and Sunday, MJ and I briefly interacted each day.

As my wife had said before she left, the only other thing that could have happened during this amazing trip was that we actually played the game of 1-on-1.

Everything else had occurred.

On one hole Sunday afternoon, MJ walked right by me and said, “What up dog.”

I was now accepted.

The Dream and The Journey

I began this journey having no idea the impact it would have on my life.

How it would change me.  How it would grow me.

I suppose that’s the beauty and the purity of it all.

A dream to play my childhood hero, transformed in to a daily walk to inspire people to believe what I believe:  Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

Jeff Jordan was right.  It is amazing, even for me, to look back at where I started and where I stand today.

It’s also proof that anyone reading this can accomplish whatever they set their mind to, if they believe and work tremendously hard.

I’ve taken a lot of small steps.  I’ve fallen down over and over again.  I’ve faced more rejection than I would ever want any of you to face.

But I’ve always kept moving forward.

I’ve always felt that if the purpose was pure, in HIS time, it would happen.

In Las Vegas, I didn’t take a major step, I dunked from the free throw line.

None of this would have been possible without the support of my wife, family, friends, and of course Jeff, Marcus and Michael Jordan.

I thank you all for believing in me.

mevsMJ.com…the epic journey continues!

MJCI Photo Gallery

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

Last year around this time, I had just made my way over to Michael Jordan, shook his hand and told him about mevsMJ.com.  It was an amazing moment – a HUGE step in this journey – and it had taken place at the 2012 Charlotte Bobcats Fantasy Camp!

I had hoped that there would be a similar event this year, but after some discussion with the Bobcats back in April, they weren’t sure if a camp would take place or not.

Then, on the afternoon of June 25th, to my surprise, I received this invite and with it another opportunity to make the dream a reality!:

When I opened the email and read the invitation, my adrenaline spiked!  I was more than excited!

The only issue was that this year’s camp was a parent-child event and I have no kids.  The Bobcats made that easy for me though and said that it would be acceptable if I brought someone that I mentor.

With that, and a conversation with the parents of one of my favorite young people, I made travel arrangements and Carlyle and I were on our way to Charlotte to see Michael Jordan!

Or so we thought….

Just as we passed through airport security in Orlando, on Tuesday afternoon, the day before the event, I recieved this email update:

The camp had changed.  There would be no MJ this year.  In the body of the email the explanation that Michael had to withdraw himself from the camp, last minute, due to a personal matter.

Obviously, we were both extremely disappointed.

Lets get one thing clear – No, we would not have flown to Charlotte if I had known Michael Jordan would not be in attendance.

But I’m glad we did!

I could write for days on everything this fantasy camp wasn’t.  Part of me wanted to provide the definition of “fantasy” to the organization, because this year it clearly fell short.  I could focus on the frustration, but I prefer to focus on the positives.

Truth – Carlyle and I had a great time!  The event activities were just a bonus.

Life and experiences are what you make of them and we were determined to make the most of it all – even if that meant no Michael Jordan.

We enjoyed Charlotte – the city and the food (S/O to The Kings Kitchen).  We also enjoyed the camp and would have won the entire competitive event, if not for human error on the time keeper’s part.  After the event, everyone was shocked (literally) when we came in second, including the duo that came in first.  In the end, none of that really matters.

What mattered to me was that I was able to spend some time with a great young person, provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to him and hopefully inspire him in his own life.

What mattered to me was that we had fun.

This site is about helping and inspiring others through my journey to play Michael Jordan.  In that respect, this camp was an amazing success!

Life isn’t always going to go exactly as you’d like it, but you’ve got to stay positive and keep trusting your path.  Your time is coming.

The game IS going to happen.

me vs. Michael Jordan…the journey continues.

1 Game – me vs. Michael Jordan – Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

Microphone in hand, speaking to the greatest basketball player to ever lace them up, sitting just 20 or so feet away in a plush lounge chair, my voice begins to carry throughout the room…

Hi, my name is Kenny Eller.  I came up from Orlando, Florida to attend the event tonight, so first of all, thank you for doing this.  It’s really great.

I have a website and its goal is…

The Unintentional Invite

Just after eight post meridiem on February 26th, I received an email from the Charlotte Bobcats inviting me to an exclusive event, Inside the Blueprint, hosted by Michael Jordan, on March 19th.

Within minutes, I had sent back my Répondez S’il Vous Plaît, made travel arrangements (I live just outside of Orlando, FL – event was in Charlotte, NC) and called my Mom to invite her to come with me and meet MJ.

Here was another opportunity to make this dream a reality.  On top of that, I’d be able to offer an amazing experience for my Mom.  The last NBA game she attended…a Jordan game of course.  Yes, she’s a fan.  A Jordan fan.

Then the next morning, things got rather interesting.

Around 10 am, I received a voicemail from the Bobcats letting me know that I wasn’t supposed to receive the invite that had come my way the night before.  To blame, a “glitch” in the marketing system.

The event was to be ultra exclusive, reserved for only the top tier of season ticket holders, and while I am a premium season ticket holder for the Bobcats (I donate the majority of my tickets back to the Charlotte Bobcats charitable organization Cats Care), I didn’t fall into the qualifying category for this event.

In fact, only 229 people did.

Obviously I was disappointed and bothered by the quick change in circumstances and after some discussion with the Bobcats, they decided to place me on a waiting list for the event.

In the end, the staff for the Bobcats felt horrible about the mixup and two weeks later, called to let me know that they would honor my initial invitation, making me guest #230!

Coincidence!?!?  Naaaaa!

Inside the Blueprint

I arrived at the arena just before 7 pm, dressed in a dark blue suit, Jordans on my feet.

There was an open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres outlining a grouping a white linened standing tables.  To one side, a small stage, with four empty, plush, lounge chairs.  It was very well put together.

The goal for the gathering was to give insight as to the plans of the management team to the top tier of ticket holders in a private forum (no media invited) and to secure everyone’s support for the future.  The event took place right around season ticket renewal time.

After 3o or so minutes of drinks and small eats, out came MJ and the crew, as they made their way on stage.

With Michael, was General Manager Rich Cho and team President and COO Fred Whitfield.  Bruce Bowen was moderating.

Bowen went through a series of questions, meant to touch on just about any topic that a fan might have on their mind.  In succession, he went from MJ, to Rich, to Fred and did so three times.  They were pointed questions, softballs by no means, and the answering parties were very candid, detailed and sincere in their responses.

Following the prearranged questioning, Bowen told those in attendance that they would open it up to questions.  He confirmed that anything could be asked.  There were no limits.

He asked that anyone with a question raise their hand and one of two gentlemen with microphones on each side of the room would come over and allow our voice to be heard.

Hand to the Sky

Like a rocket, my hand went to the sky.

My small table of three, was positioned just one back from the stage.  That had really happened by coincidence, as I ran into one the camp participants from last summer who was standing at that table.  As we were catching up, MJ and his team had made their way on stage.

Just to the left of me, one table in front, the microphone made its way to the first voice.  While the man began asking his question, the gentleman escorting the mic around, gestured over to me that he was coming to me next.

When Your Dream is in the Room

When your dream is in the room, when it’s just mere feet away, you’d like to think that you know how you’d handle it.  You’d like to believe that when it’s so close you can touch it, that you would capture it, seize it and make it a reality.

But until you’re there.  Until your dream is looking back at you, you really don’t know how you will react.

Did I know what I was going to ask?  No, not really.  Was I nervous?  Absolutely, but I think that’s natural.

For me, as I’ve touched on before, my life experiences aid me in moments like this.  On a daily basis I meet with people, some of whom I’ve never met and ask a lot of questions to help me better understand their goals and aspirations in relation to managing their assets.  I’m used to asking questions and dealing with people.  I enjoy it.

Prior to working in private wealth management, I spent four years in sports television.  I asked a lot of questions there too.

Having said that, television was years ago and the people I help today aren’t Michael Jordan.

Still, I have some sort of a foundation of comfort established.

Still, I knew as the microphone made its way over to me, that all I can do in any moment is give my best.  My effort is the only thing I can control.

Seize the Moment

As the gentleman stood next to me, with mic in hand, the second question of the evening came from across the room.

While we stood there listening, the young man with the microphone was approached by someone from the organization, who whispered in his ear.

Moments later, he leaned over to me and asked, “What’s your question?”

With a slightly irritated smirk, I responded, “It’s not about the website.”

He followed up with, “Oh no, they just want to make sure that any question asked is appropriate for the setting.”

I let him know my line of thinking and assured him that it would be fine.

I was irritated because I know that what I’m looking to accomplish is a great thing.  Beyond the game is proof that anything is possible and I want to show everyone that you can, in life, live your dreams, if you believe and work tremendously hard.

At the same time, I understood their fear.

Here I was, a guy with a website to play their owner, the Jumpman, the Legend, the GOAT, at an exclusive event I wasn’t meant to be invited to and NOW I was about to have the mic in my hand.

Their worst fears, had come true.  Honestly, I would have been afraid too, if I were them.  That is, if I didn’t understand the bigger purpose.  If I didn’t know, who Kenny Eller is.

My Question for MJ

My singular goal in asking my question was for Michael to know that I’m there.  I knew at this point that HE knew who Kenny Eller was.  His son Marcus confirmed as much, months earlier.  This would be our fourth interaction since I began this journey.

I also wanted to craft my words to him in a way that fit the setting and yet still accomplished the goal.

This is what came from my mouth.

Hi, my name is Kenny Eller.  I came up from Orlando, Florida to attend the event tonight, so first of all, thank you for doing this.  It’s really great.

I have a website and its goal is to inspire others by showing that anything is possible with faith & hard work.  So I believe.  Having said that,  I understand that any time you are chasing something great, it can be tough but I’ve found for myself that the process or the journey is where the joy is often found.

Michael are you able to enjoy the process of building this team, with the financial burden that comes along with owning the team?

Oh and (now raising my foot) I’ve got my J’s on if you want to make the other part happen and show what’s possible.

MJ Responds

The “I’ve got my J’s on” got a laugh from Michael and from those in attendance.

For the next three or four minutes, Jordan answered my question at leeeeeeength.  He gave examples of the ups and downs, the triumphs and struggles.

He didn’t touch the challenge.

The panel took just two more questions and the event was over.

Exit Stage Right

After thanking everyone for coming, MJ and the others exited the stage and made their way out of the event.

Their exit was the same way myself and those in attendance would exit, to a point, and with him being Michael Jordan, even amongst the upper echelon of income earners, MJ creates a buzz.  He stopped just off stage to take a photo with two small kids and from there, just about everyone wanted a piece…in a rather polite, controlled, I’m important too, manner.

I made my way over to Michael.  Each time someone would grab his attention for a few seconds and then he would make another few strides to his exit point.

After two failed attempts, I decided to walk out ahead of the group and wait for him to come my way.

I just wanted to get his thoughts on the site.  To see if he was up to making this dream a reality.

MJ was having no part of it on this night.

Why This Post Was Delayed

The reason it has taken until now for me to write these words, is because what happened that night was the first time I questioned this journey.

I know Michael saw me as I tried to get his attention.  I know that he knows who I am.

The fact that he wasn’t willing to take time or say what’s up, as he walked by, when he stopped at least five times to take pictures with others and two or three times to sign autographs, bothered me.

Bothered me, not because I feel he owes it to me.  It bothered me because it was the first time I felt that perhaps MJ wasn’t feeling my journey.

I will put truck loads of effort into mevsMJ.com and prove that anything is possible with faith & hard work, but not if it makes Michael Jordan uncomfortable.

That’s not the goal.

Over Analyzing the Moment

I’m an analytical guy.  A thinker.

I’m a Jordan fan.  Someone who wants to motivate and inspire.

Disappointed, I thought, maybe MJ isn’t feeling it.

On the other hand, maybe he didn’t stop, because he knew I didn’t want a picture or an autograph, I wanted time.  I wanted to set the game up.  I wanted to show what’s possible.  It would be a conversation, not a moment.

Maybe he was having a rough day.

Honestly, I’m not sure I’ll ever know what he was thinking that night.

What I do know, is that I in no way want to be viewed by him as some crazed fan traveling all over in pursuit of him.

While that may appear to be the case to someone just stumbling across this site, anyone who knows me or has invested any time in reading what I’ve written, understands that that clearly isn’t what is going on here.

Transparency 230

Up until now, this journey has been pretty unbelievably amazing, even for me.  I had hoped that this event would be more of the same.  I had hoped that MJ would see me, laugh like he did at the camp when we discussed this site, and at the very least throw out some verbal jab, like “You are not ready!”

I hoped that I’d be able to report back and show that dreams come true.

This is the reality though.  This is me being transparent.  I thought about quitting.

I had initially planned on heading out to Vegas a few weeks later and attending his Celebrity Golf Tournament.  A friend of mine just so happened to be able to line up VIP passes to all the private events.

I decided against going.  I wanted to take time to think and make sure that I’m still doing this for all the right reasons.  I didn’t want MJ to see me in Vegas and think, this dude is ridiculous.

I contemplated stopping.

I thought about everyone that follows me and how I’d be letting them down.  I thought about how I’d break my promise to show that Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work.

I barely shut my eyes that night.

A Greater Purpose

I shared my experience with just a few friends via text and phone calls.  Each of them could read and hear the weight of my experience.  They encouraged me.  They did their best to do what friends do.  My family did the same.

Then I received a text from one of them that snapped me out of it.  Not right away, but over the next few days.

The text read, “Did you ever think that maybe you weren’t there for basketball tonight?  Did you ever consider that you were there to speak Faith into Michael’s or someone else’s life in that room?”

Another friend, “He may not have addressed your challenge, but there is no doubt in my mind, when he goes to sleep tonight, he will be thinking about the message that you shared.”

My eyes welled up with tears and my belief stood up.

For some time I’ve felt like there was a much greater purpose at work here than a game of basketball.  I’ve shared that before.

Here I was in front of Michael Jordan and a group of people that night, talking about FAITH.

That wasn’t me prior to this journey.  Before mevsMJ.com, I never would have felt comfortable saying anything like that to a friend, much less Jordan.  This journey has shown me so much.  It’s given me examples that are beyond my explanation – this event another example (Unintentional invite, get to go, and then one of five people that gets the chance to ask a question).  Now I’m not trying to push a Bible on anyone, but the whole purpose of this site was to share my experience and my experience has bolstered my faith.

If that offends or makes you stop reading and supporting, so be it.

It’s Not all Roses and Rainbows

I’ve come to understand with vivid clarity, that as I trek up the mountain towards my dreams, the path isn’t going to be lined with roses and rainbows.  There is going to be disappointment.  There are going to be circumstances that challenge you to the core.

It’s how you react to those challenges that matters.

Still Going

It’s Cinco De Mayo, nearly a month and a half since all of this happened.  While some unanswered questions remain, I’m rejuvenated.  I’m training.  I’m believing.

Look, it wasn’t all bad of course.  I did get to interact with MJ again.  I also got to spend quality time with my Mom!  Both of those are great things!

I was also able to speak to one of his closest allies and Bobcats President, Fred Whitfeild, and share my journey with him.  He gave me his card and asked me to email him.  I have done so.  No response to date.

So to the question most everyone wants to know.

When will I play Michael Jordan?

I really don’t know, but what I do know, is that you should never say never.

As Michael has said in the past, “Never say never, cause limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.”

me vs. Michael Jordan…the journey continues.

1 Game – me vs. Michael Jordan – Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

 (Friday, February 15th)

Slouched down in a forest green metal chair, with just the right amount of padding in the seat to keep me content, I know that Sunday is Michael Jordan’s birthday.

I’ve known when Michael’s birthday is for most of my life.  Maybe it was all of the books and magazines I read about him when I was a kid.  Maybe it was the back of the basketball cards.  Maybe it was because he’s the reason I play ball.  He’s the reason there is a mevsMJ.com.

I’m 11 floors up in the most luxurious hotel in Central Florida, past the sliding glass doors, on the balcony connected to my room.  It’s the first of morning and there is a slight chill dancing in the air as I sit alone, overlooking the mostly empty pool and golf course.  I can hear the constant gentle rush of the fountain down below mixed with the occasional song of birds and light child laughter.

It’s peaceful.

– Reminiscing –

When I first began attempting to “Be Like Mike” I had metal brackets in my mouth pulling with all of their might to close the large gap between my two front teeth.

The smile I have today, not originally my own.

I was so innocent then.

I remember being in 8th grade gym class on the outdoor basketball court the day after my braces began renting space.  The pain was excruciating, as the fight to correct my genetics had my nerves wailing like Stephen A. Smith.

I was horrible at the game.  Couldn’t dribble.  Couldn’t shoot.  It seemed as though every single person was better than me.

I remember to this day, stopping in the middle of playing and asking one of my peers in those early times how they could make turn around shots.  I didn’t understand how they knew where the goal was.

I can’t help but chuckle at those moments now.  It was after all, back then, where mevsMJ began.

– Emotion –

My eyes flood with tears as I sit and take time to reminisce.  Some fighting to stay in, but too heavy to hold on, fall to freedom.

I‘m emotional about this game of basketball.  I’ve loved it longer than anything else in my life, outside of my family.  I’ve spent years on courts all over because it brings me something that I can’t yet adequately describe.  Something that I’m still attempting to fully comprehend.  A sort of perfect oasis, even for a guy who was far from blessed at the game in the beginning.

I care greatly about this game and owe knowing it to Michael Jordan.

Without him my life would be so very different.

– Basketball & Life –

Basketball helped make me the man I am today.  It helped build my confidence when I had little of my own.  It showed me teamwork, as well as, how sometimes, like Mike, you’ve got to take it upon yourself and just get it done.  It also showed me that if you work at something, if you pour your heart into it, there really is no limit on where it can take you.

True never before told story:  After the first few dates with my wife, I went where I always go when I have things on my mind.  I went to use up some of the excitement that was bouncing off my insides.  I went to the court, my home away from home.  I remember taking shots, hard difficult shots, telling myself that if I make this, she’s the one.  I made them and she was exactly that.

I of course would never have left such a life choice up to chance, but I always found peace after talking with the game.

Basketball has been my refuge.

I went from watching on the side of the court as a youngster just hoping to get run time in, to years later being the guy to take every shot.

Now nearly 23 years later, I’ve got young people calling and texting me weekly wanting me to help them shoot the ball better.

To go from traveling on back to back possessions in my first homeroom basketball game in middle school, to helping others is beyond humbling.  It’s an example of what’s possible in life.  I take the opportunity to help young people very seriously.  It’s such a gift I’ve been blessed with.

Without Michael Jordan I know that wouldn’t exist…around the game anyway.

– The Journey –

The journey here began over 2.5 years ago with a rather self-centered goal of playing MJ in basketball.  It was about me and MJ.

That however transformed into WE just a few months in.

Due to the response my walk generated, both good and bad, it became my goal to inspire and offer proof that anything is possible with faith and hard work.

For years, I had struggled with understanding why God made a small kid (I was only around 5’3″ then – currently 6’2″) fall in love with a game he had such a tough time with.

I’ve tried nearly every other sport during my life, but none of them tugged at my heart anything like the game of basketball.

It never mattered that I was more predisposed to success in other sports.  That round ball and 10 foot hoop always kept calling my name.

I never grasped the reasoning until I began this site.

– Face to Face with MJ –

Seven months ago I walked towards Michael full of hope.  I was living every single letter of the dream.

We talked, smiled and laughed as if he knew what the time meant to me.  He seemed to thoroughly enjoy the fact that I was brave enough to wear my shirt in his house.  He seemed to enjoy the fact that I was the me and he was the MJ in mevsMJ.com.

Proof of his liking would be found moments after we began talking, when he brought over one of his closest friends and allies, Fred Whitfield, to check it out.

Michael couldn’t have been more gracious.

It went how a storyteller would tell it.

– 50th Birthday –

Michael’s birthday will be celebrated all month for his greatness on the court but I celebrate his 50th for a different reason.

I celebrate it because I can’t imagine not knowing this game.  It’s been such a huge driving force in my life.  I value the pain and the pleasure it has brought me.

Now the game has become a vehicle for me to help and inspire others.  To show as I stated earlier that anything is possible with faith & hard work.

What a blessing.

I owe all of that to the man that grew up as Mike, who is globally known as the greatest, the MJ in mevsMJ.com, Mr. Michael Jeffrey Jordan.

Happy 50th Birthday Mr. Jordan!  I appreciate you.

me vs. Michael Jordan…the worthwhile journey continues.

1 Game – me vs. Michael Jordan – Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

####

Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Page.

Last night I asked for support in my quest to play Michael Jordan 1-on-1.

I put a grouping of words together on Instagram and asked others to support my pursuit.

I stated something that I live and believe, at the end of my ask and that was, “Anything is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!”

Then something amazing happened!

I received a random and very unexpected LIKE from the NBA’s Corey Maggette!

Sitting on my couch at home, stunned, I leaned over and showed my wife what had just happened.  Both of us amazed, I declared, it’s a God thing!

God wasn’t done.

Corey Maggette Shares mevsMJ.com with over 1 MILLION people & Follows ME on Twitter!

I then sent out the following tweet, which linked back to the Instagram post above.

Just got an instagram like from the NBA’s @ghostc5m (Corey Maggette) – Your support means a lot! (MEvsMJ.com instagr.am/p/UkW2-TC_5i/

— Kenny Eller (@KennyEller) January 17, 2013

Within a few minutes Maggette had retweeted that to all of his followers!!  ALL 1,011,205 of them!

Then to top things off, he FOLLOWED ME on Twitter!  (He only follows 1,880 people on the social media platform.)

Did I mention that last year Corey played for Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats!?!?!!?!

Just a coincidence?  Naaaaaa!

I know some will think it’s a coincidence that an NBA player randomly finds a posting of mine on Instagram and chooses to like it.  A posting that in total received just 31 likes.

Some will think it’s a coincidence that the same NBA player took my message and gave it to the +1 million followers he has on Twitter.

Some will go on thinking it’s merely a coincidence that Maggette chose to also follow me on Twitter, when he follows just .185917% of his followers.

And some will then of course think it too is a coincidence that Corey played for and knows Michael Jordan.

Some will think that.

I know better.

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work!

Honestly, when I posted that grouping of words on Instagram, my hope was that I’d pick up a few likes.

God gives us a dream and then in moments like last night, with me, He says DREAM BIGGER!

He says BELIEVE FOR GREATER THINGS!

My belief that I carry around with me, is that Anything Is Possible with FAITH & Hard Work!

I hope through this journey of mine to play Michael Jordan that you are seeing that!

I hope that this is another example to you that YOU CAN experience the things in life you were created to experience!

I hope you know that amazing moments aren’t reserved for just me and others.  Amazing moments are here for us all!

Thank you for all of your support!  It means so much to me!

me vs. Michael Jordan…the amazing journey continues!  WOW!

** UPDATE 1/18/2013 **

After all of this happened, one of the people that I shared this with was my great friend Dave Hopla.  Dave is an assistant coach for the New York Knicks.

NOW IT GETS EVEN MORE AMAZING!

I asked Dave, if he had a chance, to please tell Corey that I appreciate his support and that it means a lot to me.

Today, just before 6pm, I received a message from Dave letting me know that he had spoken to Maggette about me and my journey to play Michael Jordan before their game in London.  Yes, the Pistons were in London to play the Knicks the day after all of this happened!  

Another coincidence?  Naaaaa!

He said that Corey thought my journey to play MJ was really cool!  

WOW!

Two people from the small family that is the NBA, talking about my journey to play Michael Jordan, on an NBA court, in London, England!

I’m telling you!  ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE WITH FAITH & HARD WORK!

me vs. Michael Jordan…it’s going to happen!  So blessed!

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If you’re new here, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Fan Page.

Charlotte, NC – 

It was last Wednesday afternoon, in the 23^rd month of this journey, and there he was, Michael Jeffrey Jordan – the six rings, the 32,292 points, the 6x NBA Finals MVP, the game winners, the G.O.A.T, the reason I play basketball and the inspiration for this site.

Just minutes after his welcoming speech at the 4^th Annual Charlotte Bobcats Fantasy Camp, he stood alone on the side of the court as the camp staff ushered us off, so that group photos could be taken.

I was just feet from Michael Jordan, the MJ in mevsMJ.com and I almost didn’t approach him.  Internally I battled as to whether or not it was the right time.

I figured surely I would see him again or would I?

Hours Before

In an oversized chair located in the dimly lit lobby of a Charlotte hotel, I sat and reflected.  I thought about all of the places this journey had taken me, what I’ve learned about myself and others, the people that have encouraged, supported and helped and of course those that have been less than stellar in my pursuit.

I was just hours away from, well I wasn’t exactly sure, but what I did know was that Michael Jordan would be there and with that came an opportunity to realize the dream.

An Unexpected Phone Call

Two weeks prior, at an all day breakfast joint in downtown Orlando, in between bites of omelet and sips of coffee, I received an unexpected phone call from Charlotte, North Carolina that changed everything.

The caller after having identified himself as being with the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats, said he was calling to make sure my experience with the Bobcats had been a good one this year.

I thanked him for calling, but explained that I hadn’t been to a game, which left him in silence.

He asked, really?

He regrouped and said that perhaps I had attended a concert or some sort of an event at the arena this year.

When I let him know that I had never been to Charlotte and that I in fact lived just outside of Orlando, Florida, he couldn’t believe it.

Still surprised and probably not quite sure where to take the conversation at that point, he closed with, “Well, I’m not really sure how we have your information, but if you are ever in the area and you’d like to come to a game, please let me know if I can help.”

I thanked him again and then right before we ended the call an image of a 48 year old Jordan dunking flashed through my head.  With nothing to lose, I figured I would ask about the event that was held last year in which MJ did this.  He knew what I was referring to, so I then asked if they would be doing a similar event again anytime soon.

He let me know that the Bobcats were and within hours I was confirmed for the camp to be held exactly two weeks later!

Nerves

I’m not someone that generally gets very nervous.  I don’t get star struck either, ever.  My time in sports television cured me of that as a young man.

I admit, sure I was a little nervous/excited before my speech at the Chandler Parsons basketball camp recently.  I think that’s normal though, as I just wanted to do my best and make an impact on the young people.  I was excited before my time with Mark Cuban.  More excited than nervous before playing pros.  All what I would say are quite normal feelings.

This whole trip to Charlotte was at another level though.  I had adrenaline overload for almost the entire 14 days leading up the the camp!  Sleepless nights on the regular.  I’d wake up at 2am and think it was time to go get some makes in.  That happened multiple mornings.  The day of the camp I had to force myself to eat.

I suppose it was all of the unknowns, the uncontrollables.  Would I get to speak with Michael, would he like what I was doing, would he agree to play, would he get that my goal is bigger than a game of basketball?

I didn’t know any of the answers to those questions, but that is where I had to lean on my faith.

There wasn’t an ounce of me that thought that the phone call I received was any kin to the word accident.

Shoot Around & My mevsMJ.com Shirt

I arrived at the arena right at 4:30 pm, checked in and was given a nice big Jordan brand bag, branded shorts, shirt, socks and Gatorade.

I changed like everyone else into the given attire, with one exception.  Instead of donning the sweet Jumpman camp shirt, I slid my mevsMJ.com shirt over it.

I had thought I would just warm up with it on and then take it off, as it isn’t a dri-fit type of shirt, but rather a cotton one.  That of course means it can get a little hot.

After 30 or so minutes of shooting though, it hit me.  The day wasn’t about me shooting the ball well or performing well.

My sole purpose was to get my message to Michael Jordan – and with that I decided to wear the shirt the entire time.

I’m glad I did.

Me and Michael Jordan

As everyone was making their way off the court for group photos, I took a step towards Michael, then still battling myself internally a step away, before deciding to just go for it.

I walked up, introduced myself to Michael Jordan and then the man I watched dominate so many basketball games, made it so easy.

After the intial hello, I asked while pointing to my shirt, “Have you had a chance to check out my site mevsMJ.com?”

He leaned around and read it aloud, “me verses MJ dot com”

I interjected, “I gave you a card down in Orlando.“

He began to smile as he shook his head no, saying “mevsMJ.com.  No, no, I haven’t had a chance to check it out, but I’m going to go upstairs right after we are done taking pictures and take a look!”

I began telling him what I was looking to accomplish, what the site has become, when he then reached back and got the attention of Bobcats President and COO Fred Whitfield.

He said, “Hey Fred, you gotta check this out.  He’s got a site called mevsMJ.com.  We’ve got to go check that out upstairs as soon as we are done here.”

Fred nodded in agreement as we spoke.

Explaining that my purpose was bigger than basketball, I then turned around and asked Michael to read the back of my shirt.

He placed his hands on my shoulders and read the message I’ve been spreading aloud, “Anything is Possible with Faith & Hard Work”.

He then read my name which runs vertically on the back of the shirt and said with one of his famous mannerisms, “OK, I’m going to check it out!”

As I took a step away, he asked, “Is it hot?”

Looking back, before I could respond, he asked again, “You got anything hot on the site?”

I said, “Of course!”

He then smiled again and said, “OK, I’m gonna go upstairs, check it out, and then come back down here and tell you if it’s hot or not!”

I laughed and said, “Sounds good!”

Video of Me and Michael Jordan

Here is some video from my interaction with Michael Jordan.

 httpvh://youtu.be/wnA1goOWwxU

[If you are reading this via email/feed – click here to watch video.]

Fantasy Camp

With my group, I took my photo with Michael and the other coaches.

I then went through the camp, won the shooting contest and was the last person to leave the arena.

The ushers actually had to come take the ball from me, but not before I made my 10^th free throw in a row.

Michael never came back down, but I fully understood as he and the Bobcats’ staff was working on a possible trade for the team.

Anything Is Possible with Faith & Hard Work

After 23 months of effort, thousands upon thousands of words, through training at all hours, the injuries, rejection, doubt and pessimism, through life changing experiences, to the testing of everything I believe in, on July 11th, 2012, the dreamer won!

I’ve always believed that if the purpose was pure, that ANYTHING Is Possible with FAITH and HARD WORK!

Sure, Michael and I haven’t played 1-on-1 yet.

But we all know, it’s only a matter of time now.

me vs. MJ…the journey continues!  As always thank you for following along.

Me and Michael Jordan Photos

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[To see full images – click here]

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Fan Page.

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If you’re new to the site, I set out in August 2010 to get a game of 1-on-1 vs. my childhood hero Michael Jordan.  This site is about that journey…through every valley, to every mountain top of triumph!

Before I get into this post I’d like to take a moment to congratulate the UCF Knights Men’s Basketball program on a thrilling win versus Memphis this past Wednesday evening!

Everything from the atmosphere in the stands to the final play was electric!

Having said that…

I spent the majority of the game parked in my seat in the suite; more than slightly offended and extremely frustrated by how I was treated when I arrived at the arena.

I’ve been to enough games this year (I have season tickets) to allow for the handful of people that work on the suite level to know me and say hello.  It’s really such a small grouping of people, that it only makes sense that we get to know one another.  Because of that closeness, it makes for a pleasant evening most of the time.

However on Wednesday night, as I was making my way to my seat, I was approached and told specifically by UCF security that I was not allowed to even attempt to speak or interact with Michael Jordan at all!  The lady in charge of security on my side of the arena told me that she had been warned about me!

Huuuuuh!?!?! (like Kanye West says it)

Now I could spend the next few minutes detailing every bit of how ridiculously inappropriate and uncalled for, the conversation was with UCF security.  I could thoroughly detail how they made me feel like some sort of criminal (no I’m not exaggerating) and how a large part of me never wants to attend another game (I’m an alum btw), but that would be exactly what negativity wants.

Instead I’ll focus on the positive, because in the end good did win! Contact with MJ for the second time was made (read about first interaction here), albeit short, and not exactly as I would have liked!

Tangent Time:  My experience on Wednesday evening is a classic example of obstacles I face every single day on this journey.  While I really don’t believe it should be this difficult, the truth is, any time you’re pursuing something of true value, roadblocks are going to be running rampant and you must maintain the proper mindset in which to handle them.

A lot, make that most people, would have let what happened in the beginning of the night keep them from moving forward, but I worked through it with kindness, because I refuse to be limited.

OK, on to the good stuff!

MJ and me

I had thought for a couple of weeks that Jordan may be at the Memphis game, due to his Charlotte Bobcats being in town to play the Orlando Magic the night before.  When I got to the game at UCF on Wednesday night, I realized that I was absolutely correct.

Still, I really didn’t know what I would say to him this time if the opportunity did arise.

Keep in mind; there is nothing “normal” at all about the circumstances.  I’m basically trying to speak to someone coming or going with a purpose, in an environment where they’d (mini-cops) rather I not try at all.

It’s not ideal and definitely not comfortable or even an acquaintance of easy.

After discussing with a buddy during the game, I decided to ask MJ what he thought about this site and what I’m looking to accomplish, which is to play hoops with him of course.

Sure enough after UCF’s come from behind win, opportunity came a knocking again.  This time just like last, as Jordan was leaving.

Michael Jordan Spoke To Me!

As Jordan passed, walking side by side with Ahmad Rashad (I wanted to ask Ahmad to say, “My Main Man!!!” but I refrained, haha!), I fired away my question.  Well kind of.

I asked with a mix of excited confidence, “Did you get a chance to check it out!?”

With that signature Jordan half smile/head nod, he responded, “Yeah man, that was a really good…”

At this point I honestly thought my dream was about to come true!  With seconds seeming like minutes, I thought, WOW he checked out the site and LOVES IT!

Then he completed his sentence with, “…game!”

With just a few more steps, he was gone.

I had spoken to Michael Jordan again for the second time in a little over a month, even though it didn’t go exactly as I would have liked!

Do You Really Believe?

When it’s smiles, high fives, kind words and barge ships full of support, maintaining belief in what you’re doing is easy.

The true test comes when you’re in an environment that isn’t conducive to success.  When doubt and resistance flex their debilitating muscles and push back, the only way you will be able to continue to push forward is if you truly BELIEVE in what you’re doing!

Sure I could have done a better job in the few seconds I had with MJ.  I could have been better prepared and much more specific (I was very upset that I wasn’t), but there was never any doubt in my mind that I would ask him something!

While I believe ignorance is the reason I was approached by security that evening, I have no problem with educating.

I told the security person, respectfully, that what they are attempting to do to me is a microcosm of what is wrong in society.  People are so quick to say NO without investing any time to see if YES is a possibility.

I told her that what I’m doing is great!  That it’s about showing others that anything is possible with faith and hard work!

You see, no is easy.  It flows.  It’s everything most people are, void of hope.

So if you don’t really believe, people will stop you in your tracks.

Good thing for me, I’ve got an Earth sized bag full of belief I carry around everywhere.

Until I hear NO from the mouth of Michael Jordan himself, I will continue on.  Even then, if that were to happen and no part of me believes it will, I’d most likely ask him to reconsider!

No one said this was going to be easy!

me vs. MJ…the worthwhile journey continues!  Thank you for following along!

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Note:  While the Knights’ mini-cops seem to have it out for me, not all those at UCF have gone off the deep end and for them I am thankful!  You know who you are! Please know that I appreciate you! 

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34 of 36 from 3pt Land (Back To Working On My Game!)

So I never really posted about it on here, but I tweaked my knee a month or so ago during training and that has kept me off the court and from working on my legs.

Thankfully and I mean THANKFULLY it was just a mild strain and nothing too serious.  Big shout out to my man Justin Cobb for getting me back on track quickly!  (I may post more on this later, because the story will blow your mind!)

Being out, I couldn’t wait to get back on the court and get some work in, which I did Thursday morning, ending my workout by making 34 of 36 three-point attempts, including 20 threes in a row!

I can’t wait to get my leg strength back so I can translate that into games!

I know you see me Mr. Jordan!   Swish, swish…let’s get this game on!

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Connect:  Twitter (@KennyEller) and mevsMJ.com Facebook Fan Page.

I believe everyone, that includes you, would like to be really good at whatever it is they chose to do on a daily basis.  I’d go one step further to say that everyone, still including you, wants to be better than anyone else that is doing what they do.

It’s human nature to want to succeed.  It’s part of our make-up to desire greatness.  Being the best is intertwined throughout the fiber of our being.

So why aren’t you better than anyone at anything?

Big question right?  It’s a query that you may or may not have asked yourself in quite some time.

The reason why you aren’t better than everyone at what you’re doing is complicated and yet quite simple.  The root of the problem is found in the beginning.  It’s found at inception.  No, not when you were born, but rather when you began pouring your life into whatever it is that you do.  Today we will jump in the DeLorean and go back to the beginning where the answer to the BIG question most likely will be found.

Why You Do What You Do

What was your decisioning process when you began your journey?  What checklist was involved when you began the task that will consume more hours of your life than most anything else?  I’m talking about your job, the responsibility that pays.

Did you show up day one because it was the realization of a life long dream?

Or did it go more like this?

Graduate high school or college + need a job + who will hire me + they said yes = My Job.

The above equation is unfortunately all too true for the majority of people.

That’s the issue.

You Gotta LOVE it!!!!!

If you want to be the best, if you want to be better than anyone at anything, at the core you must love what you’re doing.  You must be passionate about your task.

This is the simple part of the “being better than anyone at anything” formula that most of us screw up.

Why Michael Jordan IS the Greatest Basketball Player Ever!

There are buckets full of reasons Michael Jordan is the greatest hoopster to ever play.  Though all of the reasons wouldn’t matter if at inception he made an error.

It isn’t the only reason, but the KEY reason Michael Jordan is the greatest is because he LOVES the game of basketball.

That’s why MJ could be found just last month practicing with his team, the Charlotte Bobcats, at the age of 48.

That’s also why when he played he had a “love of the game” clause in his NBA contract which allowed him to play basketball anytime, anywhere, with anyone, in the off season.

He loved what he did and even if the NBA were to shut its doors you could still find Mike Jordan shooting a ball on some court somewhere.

How To Become Better Than Anyone At Anything (Step 1)

1. Love What You Do!

A Fighting Chance

If you don’t take care of step one, you will never have a fighting chance to be the Michael Jordan of what you’re doing.

You may, through calendars of hard work be able to do very well, but you’ll never truly achieve what you’re capable of without being passionate about it.

What To Do Next

Be as honest with yourself as possible and figure out if you made an error at the beginning, at step 1.

If you did, I’m not saying quit what you’re doing immediately, but at least begin to pursue something on the side that you would do even if money didn’t exist.

Do that and one day the World may just be calling others the [Insert Your Name] of what they’re doing!