Michael Jordan, one of the world’s richest Black billionaires and widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history, has made a $10 million gift to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, North Carolina. The donation honors his mother, Deloris Jordan, and will lead to the medical center’s neuroscience institute being renamed the Novant Health Deloris Jordan Neuroscience Institute.
Jordan donates to broaden neurological services
The contribution, made through the James R. Jordan Foundation and its international unit, will support research in brain health and expand access to neurological care across southeastern North Carolina. Hospital officials say the institute will offer patients advanced treatment for conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, spine injuries and other disorders that require specialized expertise.
Jordan said the gift reflects the values his mother instilled in him while growing up in Wilmington. “My mother taught me the importance of compassion and community, and I can’t think of a better way to honor her than by helping to ensure those in need can obtain the most advanced neurological care available,” he said. “I’m proud to continue to partner with Novant Health to expand access to world-class healthcare in my hometown and to support my mother’s work and interest in global health and wellness.”
Uplifting families through care and healing
Deloris Jordan, who has long focused on education, health and family support through her foundation’s programs, said she hopes the institute will help more families receive timely care. “I’ve always believed caring for others is one of life’s greatest callings,” she said. “As a mother who raised my family in Wilmington, I know how access to quality care shapes a community. It is humbling and deeply meaningful to be part of bringing high-quality care to more people.”
Her global efforts include founding the Kenya Women and Children’s Wellness Centre in Nairobi, which provides medical services, counseling, and resources for families facing health challenges or gender-based violence. The center also offers preventive care and community programs aimed at strengthening households and improving long-term outcomes.
Jordan boosts major health network
Novant Health, which operates nearly 900 locations including 19 hospitals and hundreds of physician clinics, is one of the region’s largest healthcare networks. Its system includes outpatient centers, urgent care sites, imaging facilities and pharmacies, with an emphasis on patient safety, clinical research and expanded virtual care services.
Jordan’s donation adds another chapter to his record as both an athlete and a businessman. He became the first athlete to reach billionaire status in 2014 and has built a portfolio that now includes investments in DraftKings and co-ownership of NASCAR’s 23XI Racing team. His net worth stands at $3.8 billion placing him among the world’s richest Black individuals.
His wealth grew significantly in 2023 when he sold his controlling stake in the Charlotte Hornets for roughly $3 billion. Jordan, who had led the franchise since 2010, kept a minority interest. The deal marked one of the most notable ownership exits in professional sports and highlighted how much the franchise’s value rose during his tenure.
