Jordan era
JORDAN ERA
In the 1997-1998 season, Jordan was 35 years old, and even though he maintained the best competitive form of his year through extensive exercise, he could not hide the lack of physical performance. That year, Jordan averaged 28.7 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game, down from the previous year. Coach Phil Jackson continued to warn Jordan to give up some defensive stats and better adjust his physical strength for sprints at critical times, while his teammates unleashed Jordan's maximum attack with more aggressive defense. Jordan himself is also considered from the physical strength and stability, this season Jordan almost gave up the three-point shooting method, and more focused on his signature back-up jumper.
During the season, the Bulls suffered a sniper attack by the Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in the season. Pacers commander Miller has always regarded challenging Jordan as a lifelong goal, but unfortunately he still failed, but the Bulls also fought hard seven games and won 88-83. The Bulls once again advanced to the Finals against the Utah Jazz.
Jordan created the myth again. In Game 3, the Bulls "slaughtered" the Jazz 96:54, and the Jazz's 54 points also set the lowest NBA playoff scoring record. Immediately after, the Bulls won one more game, just one victory away from the Finals title. However, the Jazz did not easily surrender. In the fifth game, Jordan came on the court with a low fever and swept 38 points, and the Bulls lost but won the respect of the whole field.
The sixth game began, which was also the most "shiny" game of Jordan's career.
One minute before the finale, the Bulls were one point behind the Jazz. In the final 14 seconds, possession remained in the hands of the Jazz. But a miracle was born! Jordan decisively interrupted the ball from Malone's hand and the Bulls got an offensive opportunity.
5.8 seconds before the finale, Jordan used a cross-step movement, gently tapped on the opponent Russell, then retreated, came an elegant back-up jumper, the ball drew a flawless arc into the basket, the Bulls narrowly defeated the Jazz 87:86, once again completed the "triple crown" feat, Jordan's goal was also voted "the most classic moment of the nineties".
Although the cheers on the pitch were still enthusiastic, many fans also began to cry, because according to Jordan's description, he was going into hiding, that is, it was his most perfect ending, he proved everything, proved himself.