The businessman who bought the NBA star Michael Jordan‘s “cursed” mansion has sparked an uproar from his neighbors after unveiling plans to transform the property in a tony Chicago suburb into what he describes as an “immersive” tourist destination that will be “focused on personal transformation”.
A native of Nebraska John Cooper purchased the nine-bedroom, 19-bathroom Highland Park mansion in December 2024 — paying $9.5 million for the residence, which was on the market for $14.89 million at the time.
Since then, he has made several attempts to turn the property — which he named Champions Point — into an attractive source of income, first offering it as a kind of luxury timeshare, with bids starting at $1 million each, then pivoting to offer it as a luxury Airbnb.
Now, he’s pivoted again, revealing plans to transform the iconic residence into a tourist destination with a “living classroom” where guests will be treated to an “immersive, multisensory experience focused on personal transformation,” according to ABC7.
“The theme of the trip is going to be ‘Greatness,’ and our goal is to teach people what it means to be great in life,” Cooper told the Highland Park City Council at a recent meeting to discuss his proposed changes.
The businessman said he wanted to partner with local organizations such as schools and charities, offering free entry – promising a huge benefit to the area surrounding the museum.
“Although this is a commercial venture, we believe the community and anyone who gets to experience the museum will benefit greatly,” he said.
However, his promises about community prosperity didn’t ease the concerns of council members, who noted that Cooper’s plans needed a lot of work before allowing the property to be turned into any kind of commercial enterprise.
Similarly, other residents of the local area have also expressed serious doubts about the impact of the proposed museum on their community.
“The idea of a large number of strangers coming in and out of our doors gives us a lot of fear,” one person said at the Dec. 15 meeting.
However, there are some who fully support the project, praising Cooper for celebrating the “legacy of a Chicago icon” and shining a spotlight on Highland Park.
No decision has yet been made on the project, although Cooper has been asked to provide more detailed information about his proposal and discussions will continue.
“The Park District has received a proposal from Mr. Cooper, a resident at 2700 Point Lane, and the Park Board has authorized the Executive Director to explore the possibility of a partnership with Champions Point that provides a public benefit to the community, consistent with the District’s mission and Board approved policies,” reads a statement from the Highland Park Council.
Property records indicate the residence is still listed on the rental market at $89,000 a month.
Cooper’s plans for the museum come about a year after he closed on the house — Jordan first listed his sprawling estate for $29 million in 2012, ending a 13-year struggle to find a buyer.
Early on, Cooper was full of promise for the famed residence—promising to protect its legacy, hinting at the “exciting plans” he had lined up for the house, which he noted would not initially serve as his primary residence.
However, those exciting plans quickly hit more than a few roadblocks, with Cooper making several attempts to turn the property into a lucrative business venture only to be disappointed – and seemingly failed – at every turn.
The struggle began two months after the businessman bought the house, when he announced plans to turn it into a luxury timeshare, offering pieces of the prestigious residence for $1 million each.
The proposal would have allowed bidders to invest in pieces of the property, starting at $1 million each — Cooper announced that he had renamed the property Champions Point.
However, the timeshare concept never seemed to take off, prompting Cooper to rethink his plans for an extended residence.
In February 2025, he put the entire house on the rental market for $230,000 per month, describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to rent a “world-class property” that was designed for “those who live and play.”
While listing the home for rent, Cooper shared images of the updates he’s made to the interior, adding new furniture and unveiling a completely renovated kitchen with modern amenities.
The listed photos revealed a surprise update to the residence: Jordan’s iconic “Jumpman” logo removed from the center of the in-house basketball court.
Additionally, the listing description makes no mention of Jordan’s former ownership of the home, instead attempting to appeal to a wider variety of sports fans, who may be devotees of the NBA legend or his former team. Chicago Bulls.
“Champions Point is a sports lover’s sanctuary, featuring regulation-size basketball courts, championship-level greens, tennis courts, a fitness center and gaming areas,” the listing — which is still active — reads.
“The Ultimate Retreat—Make your game-day experience like never before. Watch every buzzer-beater, Cinderella story, and championship moment unfold in your private sports haven.
“Whether you’re courtside on your own regulation-size indoor basketball court, hosting an epic viewing party in the state-of-the-art theater, or celebrating victories in the luxury cigar lounge and wine cellar, every moment at Champions Point is designed for those who demand excellence.
Once again, the property failed to take off – prompting Cooper to dramatically reduce the asking price, not once, but twice, first to $150,000 a month, then more recently, to just $89,000 a month.
Months later, in June, Cooper revealed that he was back with another business venture for the home, this time rebranding the residence as a luxury rental on Airbnb that launched on June 30.
“Champions Point has always been a legendary property. Now, we’re making it possible for more people to experience that magic firsthand through our partnership with Airbnb Luxe,” Cooper said in a statement. “Whether it’s a family retreat, a milestone celebration, or an unforgettable getaway with friends, this property offers an unparalleled experience in luxury living.”
According to Airbnb, the home’s classification as one of its “Luxe” accommodations is a clear indication of its impressive heritage and promises guests “exceptional design, luxurious amenities, and high-touch services.”
“Each Luxe property must pass a rigorous 300-point inspection focused on form, function, feel, location and service – ensuring each stay meets the highest standards for comfort, style and experience,” said an Airbnb spokesperson.
