(1991) Michael Jordan & The Chicago Bulls Win Their First NBA Championship

Published on June 12th, 2017 by Astramskas, David | 5,383 views

On this day in history, June 12th of 1991, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen combined for 62 points, 17 rebounds, 17 assists and 10 steals to beat the Lakers 108-101 in Game 5 of the 91 Finals. The victory gave the two Chicago legends their first of six NBA championships and prevented Magic Johnson — 16 points, 20 assists and 11 rebounds in the loss — from winning his sixth NBA championship. It was also the first championship for the 25-year old franchise.

After the game, Jordan, who finished his dominant NBA Finals performance with 30 points, 10 assists and 5 steals, was in tears with his now deceased father and ex-wife by his side.

“No one can ever take this away from me,” said an emotional Jordan. “This has been a seven-year struggle for me. It should get rid of the stigma of being a one-man team. We have players surrounding myself that make us an effective basketball team. I don’t know if I’ll ever have this same feeling again.”

If only he knew.

jordan1_111122_0