Michael Jordan was forced to miss Chicago Blackhawks legend Chris Chelios’ jersey retirement ceremony on Sunday due to a death in the family.

One month after he curiously skipped the Bulls’ Ring of Honor ceremony at United Center amid friction with former teammate Scottie Pippen, Jordan was scheduled to make a return to the venue to show his support for long-time friend Chelios.

The pair have enjoyed a close relationship which stems back to their respective playing days in Chicago, meaning the basketball great was planning to watch his famous No 7 Blackhawks jersey retired this weekend.

Yet according to NBC journalist Charlie Roumeliotis, Jordan was forced to skip Chelios’ ceremony after announcing he is currently dealing with a death in the family.

The Bulls icon instead delivered a video message to his close pal on the night, where he revealed his reason for missing the event while at a golf course.