Michael Jordan's Childhood Home

Address: 4647 Gordon Road, Wilmington, NC 28411
Jordan was born in Brooklyn in 1963 but moved with his family to 4647 Gordon Road in Wilmington, NC around age 5, where he grew up until college.

The modest residence remains a private, residential property, in a quiet neighborhood—unmarked and with no plaques or tours allowed.

Michael was the fourth of five children. His mother, Deloris, worked as a banker, and his father, James Sr., was an equipment supervisor. Despite relatively modest means, the family placed strong emphasis on discipline and work ethic.

Michael and his brother Larry practiced basketball in the yard at the house, which once included a homemade hoop or court.

Nearby Empie Park and the Boys & Girls Club served as his early basketball playgrounds, although there are no memorial markers there today.

At Emsley A. Laney High, Jordan initially didn’t make the varsity basketball team in his sophomore year due to his height (5′9″). That setback motivated him to improve his skills dramatically.

Jordan announced his commitment to UNC while still living in his Wilmington home—a symbolic moment marking the start of his ascent into college stardom.