On this date in 1996, the return of Michael Jordan was complete. The Chicago Bulls clinched their fourth title after defeating the Seattle SuperSonics in six games.
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After Michael Jordan returned to the NBA from baseball, many wondered if he could lead the Bulls to another championship. In 1995, MJ failed to achieve this, as the Bulls lost in the second round to the young and hungry Orlando Magic.
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Jordan became determined to return to the top, as he trained harder than ever during the offseason. By the time the 1995-96 season arrived, MJ was ready and with the addition of Dennis Rodman, Chicago was ready to send a message to the entire league.
The Bulls steamrolled through the season, winning a then-record 72 games, while Jordan won the MVP. It appeared Jordan was back, but could he lead Chicago in the postseason?
Jordan caps return with emotional victory
Jordan and the Bulls had no problem with the Eastern Conference. They stormed through the first three rounds losing only once to the New York Knicks in the second round.
The Bulls capped off their return to the NBA Finals by getting revenge on the Magic in the Eastern Conference. Chicago swept Orlando 4-0, with Jordan delivering a 45-point performance in Game 4.
In the Finals, the Bulls took an easy 3-0 lead. The Sonics would storm back, winning the next two games, but ultimately, this season belonged to Jordan and the Bulls.
Chicago won Game 6 on June 16, 1996, 87-75. It was Father’s Day, and Jordan, who tragically lost his father in 1993, became overwhelmed with emotions.
Jordan was named the Finals MVP, his fourth, and winning his fourth NBA title proved he was officially back. This was one of the greatest moments in NBA history.
