Jordan, part owner of the Washington Wizards, gave his heaviest hint yet that he would return to the sport.
Asked whether he was definitely coming back by reporters Jordan said: "I'm doing it for the love of the game. Nothing else. For the love of the game."
He is president of basketball operations for the team and a part owner, meaning he has to divest his ownership under NBA rules before returning to the court.
Jordan, whose deal with Nike included the launch of a range of Air Jordan gear, is due to announce his return at a press conference in the middle of next week, although this may be delayed in the light of the terrorist attacks on the US yesterday.
