Chapter 227 – A Shock Across America
After Ray Patterson left, Aaron remained seated on the living room sofa, taking a slow sip of his drink.
Was Patterson's confidence tied to the fact that Michael Jordan had just suffered the devastating loss of his father? Would that grief affect his performance in the upcoming NBA season?
Still, even beyond the Chicago Bulls, there were other legitimate contenders—the New York Knicks, the Seattle SuperSonics, and the Phoenix Suns. All of them had the strength to chase a championship.
If Aaron were to tell them that Michael Jordan would soon announce his retirement, what would their reaction be? Shock? Disbelief? Total silence?
Ray had also mentioned something else: the league was preparing to expand into Canada.
Toronto and Vancouver were currently applying for expansion franchises. With the NBA sitting at 27 teams, it seemed inevitable that Canada would soon gain two—most likely the Toronto Raptors and the Vancouver Grizzlies.
"Are you going to be coming to Houston often now?" Cristiana Reali asked as she sat beside him.
Aaron shook his head. "Not that often. I can keep an eye on the Rockets from Los Angeles just fine."
He patted her lightly. "Get ready—we're heading to New York."
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With Speed finishing its theatrical run at $120 million domestically and $230 million overseas, it had reached an impressive $350 million worldwide.
Meanwhile, The Piano continued its strong performance as well, earning $40 million in North America and $100 million overseas—a remarkable $140 million global total for an art-house film.
Then, in early October, Michael Jordan appeared on Chicago television and officially announced his retirement.
"In basketball," he declared, "I have achieved everything. I no longer have the motivation to move forward. It's time to end my basketball career."
The nation erupted.
This was the so-called "God of Basketball"—a seven-time scoring champion who had just led his team to three consecutive NBA titles.
The impact was immediate and staggering. Within 24 hours of Jordan's announcement, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 125 points. Nike's stock price dropped 4%.
The hardest hit, however, was the Chicago Bulls—and the Chicago sports market itself. The Bulls' attendance numbers were inseparable from Jordan's presence.
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Downtown Manhattan, West Village — Dawnlight Pictures' New York office.
Jack Wells stared at the newspaper in disbelief before lowering it.
"Aaron, Jordan retiring—this is huge for the NBA."
"You just bought the Houston Rockets, and this happens?"
Aaron rolled his eyes. "Relax. He'll be back."
"He's reportedly joined the Chicago White Sox's minor league affiliate in MLB," Aaron continued. "After all, both the White Sox and the Bulls are owned by Jerry Reinsdorf."
Jordan's long-term contract with the Bulls—eight years for $25 million from 1988 to 1996—was, in hindsight, significantly undervalued.
"I did hear he's always loved baseball," Jack nodded.
Aaron rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
"Do you think there's any chance we could trade for Scottie Pippen?"
Jack laughed. "He's finally the top guy in Chicago. You want him to come play second to Hakeem Olajuwon? Not happening."
Aaron sighed.
True enough. Pippen wouldn't agree—not now.
Just days earlier, the Detroit Pistons had traded Dennis Rodman, Isaiah Morris, a 1994 second-round pick, and a 1996 first-round pick to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Sean Elliott and another 1996 first-round selection.
Aaron couldn't help thinking ahead. Maybe it would be wise to prevent the formation of that future "iron triangle" before it ever took shape. Should he try to pry Dennis Rodman away from the Spurs first?
The only question was whether head coach Rudy Tomjanovich and franchise cornerstone Hakeem Olajuwon could keep Rodman under control.
After all, Dennis Rodman was notoriously difficult—an explosive personality and a locker-room wild card.
Aaron shook his head, pushing the thought aside for now. He looked at Jack Wells.
"So, what brings you here? Something you need to discuss?"
Jack nodded. "It's about the naming rights for the Rockets' new arena."
"American Airlines is offering $1.7 million per year for a ten-year naming deal."
Jack had come on behalf of general manager Ray Patterson. Ultimately, it was Aaron's decision.
Jack was now serving as an executive vice president of operations with the Chicago Bulls while continuing to work closely with Aaron. Angel International's training facilities were based in Texas, after all.
Aaron raised an eyebrow. "That's it? That seems low."
Jack shook his head. "It's actually competitive. The Bulls' new arena will open next year—United Airlines secured naming rights for $1.8 million annually over ten years."
The Bulls were still playing at Chicago Stadium, but starting next season, they would move into the new United Center.
Aaron scoffed lightly. "Forget it. If that's the going rate, we might as well call it the Dawnlight Center."
"It doubles as advertising for Dawnlight Pictures. And honestly, 'American Airlines Center' doesn't even sound that great."
Jack chuckled. "Fair enough. But the total arena budget will likely exceed $250 million."
"Your $100 million has already been transferred. The club is negotiating loans with several banks. There shouldn't be any issues."
"We're also qualifying for certain Texas state tax incentives. With the league expanding and revenues growing, the pressure won't be overwhelming."
Aaron nodded and stretched.
"Then let's break ground as soon as possible. I want it completed by the year after next."
"No problem," Jack replied confidently. "Construction can begin next year. Eighteen months should be enough to finish the new downtown Houston Dawnlight Center."
"Good."
Aaron clapped him on the shoulder.
"Come on. My yacht renovation is finished—it's docked in East Hampton on Long Island. There's a yacht party tonight."
Jack grinned. "Are there beautiful women?"
Aaron rolled his eyes. "Of course."
Jack spread his hands. "I was planning to bring Uma Thurman."
Aaron shrugged. "Just a few models—candidates for the upcoming Victoria's Secret Fashion Show."