NBA legend Michael Jordan once gave away full year's salary after being moved by tragic event

As a six-time NBA champion, a five-time MVP and arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan could have earned a handsome salary when he came out of retirement for the second time in 2001. But instead the Chicago Bulls legend decided to give away a year's pay.

Jordan first retired in 1993. The North Carolina native had just led the Bulls to a third successive NBA title, cementing his status as the best player on the planet. After the death of his father, he decided to step away from basketball and try his hand at baseball instead.

His bat-swinging career in baseball's minor leagues was short-lived. He returned to action with the Bulls in 1995 and, between 1996 and '98, led the Chicago side to another three straight championships before again hanging up his signature sneakers.

The third – and final – time Jordan was coaxed out of retirement, he joined the Washington Wizards ahead of the 2001-02 NBA season.

Jordan was set to earn million of dollars upon his return to NBA action, but instead he decided to give away his first year's salary with the Wizards in response to a seismic tragedy of the time.

"Jordan said he will donate his first year's salary to the victims of the Sep. 11 terrorist attacks," a 2001 Washington Post article read.

According to a CNN report, the Chicago Bulls icon donated $100,000 to the children who lost their parents in the 11 September terrorist attack on the Pentagon.

He pledged the rest of his salary to organisations set up to help victims of 9/11.

Michael Jordan and Shaquille O'Neal during an NBA fixture. Image: Getty

Jordan went on to play for the Wizards for two seasons, averaging 22.9 points per game in his first campaign with the side from the United States' capital and 20 points per game in his second term.

He retired – this time for good – in 2003 at the age of 41.

Although he was unable to lead the Wizards to the play-offs, his legacy as arguably the greatest basketball player of all time was only enhanced by his performances into his 40s.