The Chicago Bulls had never let an NBA Finals series go to a Game Seven in their franchise history, and all but one of their previous five titles (the exception was in 1991) were clinched in the sixth game. Thus, winning Game Six in Salt Lake City was imperative for Chicago.
Yet, as they arrived at the Delta Center for Game 6, things did not look good for the Bulls. Scottie Pippens back gave way when he dunked the opening basket of the game and he was slowed down, scoring only eight points all game. Tensions ran high in the Delta Center when the Jazz discovered problems of their own. They suffered several shot clock violations, including one on a successful three-point attempt by Howard Eisley. Television replays showed, however, that Eisley got the ball out of his hands in time before the shot clock hit zero and the referees missed the call.[citation needed] In the fourth quarter, the Bulls closed the gap. With 41.9 seconds left, the Bulls suffered a jolt as John Stockton hit a clutch 3-point shot to give Utah an 86-83 lead and send the Delta Center into a frenzy. Down by three, the Bulls had one last chance to stay alive. Running perilously low on energy, the Bulls knew they must win the game or else face overtime.
After Michael Jordan made a layup to cut the Jazz lead to one, the Bulls needed to stop the Jazz from scoring again. When John Stockton passed the ball to Karl Malone, Michael Jordan stole the ball away and dribbled to the front. Guarding him was Bryon Russell, one of the Jazzs best perimeter defenders. Jordan drove inside the 3-point line, crossed over (it is argued that he pushed off on Russell [1]), and hit a 20-foot jump shot to give the Bulls an 87-86 lead with 5.2 seconds left. After a time-out, Stocktons three-point attempt hit the rim and bounced away, giving the Bulls their sixth NBA title in 8 years. Jordan, who scored 45 points, and whose game-winning shot has been immortalized in many records, was named the Finals MVP.
Quotes from the Finals
All thats missing for Utah is a blindfold and a cigarette. NBCs Bob Costas on Chicagos blowout of Utah in Game 3.
17 seconds from Game 7, or from Championship number 6Jordan, openChicago with the lead!! Time out Utah, 5.2 seconds leftMichael Jordan running on fumes with 45 points. Bob Costas making the call of Michael Jordans game-winning shot.
That may have been the last shot Michael Jordan ever made in the NBAIf thats the last image of Michael Jordanhow magnificent is it!? Bob Costas describing Jordans game-winner, his last shot as a Chicago Bull
Malonestripped by Michael, to the floor, stolen by M.J.! Michael the steal! 16 seconds left, Bulls down oneMichael against Russell, 12 seconds1110. Jordan, Jordan, a drive, hangsfiresSCORE!! He scores! The Bulls lead 87-86 with five and two-tenths left, and now theyre one stop away! Oh my goodnessoh, my goodness! Neil Funk calling Jordans steal and game-winner on the Bulls radio network.
