As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for sports-themed titles, I can’t help but marvel at the dedication and commitment showcased by Michael Jordan during the filming of Space Jam. The sheer scale of the “Jordan Dome” built just for him is a testament to his influence in the world of basketball and entertainment. It’s not every day you see an NBA superstar demanding a state-of-the-art training facility on a studio lot, but Jordan was no ordinary player.
Nothing gets in the way of training — not even the Looney Tunes!
During the making of the 1996 movie Space Jam (currently streaming on Peacock), basketball legend Michael Jordan was required to maintain peak performance, as he was also gearing up for a challenging season with the Chicago Bulls. To facilitate this, Warner Bros. constructed a complete facility, called the “Jordan Dome,” on their parking lot at studio headquarters in Burbank, California, during the film’s production.
For More on Space Jam
In a nod to its predecessor, “Space Jam: A New Legacy” stands alone as a sequel according to the voice of Bugs Bunny.
Michael Jordan Needed an Entire Basketball Compound Built During Space Jam
“Tim Grover, Jordan’s personal trainer, shared in the book Space Jammin’, written by Charles Carney and Gian Misiroglu, that he demanded specific Cybex equipment tailored for basketball. He further requested a full-sized NBA court complete with professional hoops and backboards. According to Grover, he designed a space for Michael Jordan to unwind, equipped with a rigorous training system, a phone, air conditioning, restroom facilities, and shower and towel services for everyone. Essentially, he replicated his training setup in Chicago for use here. This area was also meant for Jordan and his teammates, as well as other players, to relax comfortably.”
Grover compiled an extensive list of desired facilities, anticipating objections due to budget constraints, yet found that all his requests were included. In awe, he exclaimed, “Every single thing I asked for is included. It’s stunning.” “It’s beautiful,” he added.
The Jordan Dome was an advanced facility boasting a basketball court borrowed from California State University, Long Beach, round-the-clock security, and a powerful air conditioning system capable of maintaining ideal temperatures for large amounts of meat if needed. Over time, it transformed into an exclusive social venue frequented by athletes, celebrities, and industry professionals alike. Notable attendees included figures such as Dennis Rodman, Shaquille O’Neal, Magic Johnson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Antonio Banderas, Steven Seagal, along with cast members from shows like ER and Friends.
In addition, The Dome emerged as one of the rare spots where top-tier basketball players could gather during the NBA strike in 1995. As Grover explained, all the summer leagues and practice facilities were shut down. If you wanted to engage in the highest level of basketball during the summer months, this was the go-to destination.
Dan Goldberg, the film’s producer alongside Ivan Reitman, explained that it was necessary, in some aspects, to be self-centered. They felt compelled to construct the Jordan Dome because they wanted him nearby for immediate access without wasting time on traffic or delays. His schedule was fixed; he had obligations to play basketball and rehearse, which couldn’t be altered.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-08-12 22:46