In his rookie season, Jordan averaged 28.2 points per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. His performance helped the Bulls reach the playoffs, a feat they would continue to achieve throughout his tenure with the team. Jordan's early years in the league were characterized by his high-flying dunks and acrobatic plays, which earned him the nickname "Air Jordan."
The late 1980s saw Jordan solidify his status as a dominant force in the NBA. He led the league in scoring for seven consecutive seasons, starting in 1987. Despite his individual success, the Bulls initially struggled to advance deep into the playoffs, often being thwarted by the Detroit Pistons, known for their physical "Bad Boys" style of play.
Everything changed in the 1990-91 season when Jordan and the Bulls finally overcame the Pistons and advanced to the NBA Finals. There, they faced the Los Angeles Lakers, led by Magic Johnson. Jordan's performance was nothing short of spectacular, and he led the Bulls to their first NBA Championship, earning the Finals MVP award in the process. This victory marked the beginning of a dynasty.
The Bulls, with Jordan at the helm, went on to win three consecutive championships from 1991 to 1993. During this period, Jordan's ability to perform under pressure and his leadership on the court were instrumental in the team's success. However, in October 1993, Jordan shocked the sports world by announcing his retirement from basketball, citing a loss of desire to play the game.
Jordan's hiatus from basketball was short-lived. In March 1995, he returned to the NBA with a simple two-word press release: "I'm back." His return rejuvenated the Bulls, and although they were eliminated in the playoffs that year, it set the stage for another period of dominance.
The 1995-96 season was historic for Jordan and the Bulls. The team finished with a then-record 72-10 regular-season record, and Jordan once again led the league in scoring. The Bulls cruised through the playoffs and captured their fourth NBA Championship, with Jordan earning another Finals MVP award. This success continued with two more championships in 1997 and 1998, completing a second "three-peat."
After the 1997-98 season, Jordan retired for a second time, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and a sense of fulfillment from his basketball achievements. However, his competitive nature eventually drew him back to the game.
In 2001, Jordan returned to the NBA, this time with the Washington Wizards. Although he was no longer the dominant player he once was, Jordan still displayed flashes of brilliance and provided valuable leadership to a young team. He played two seasons with the Wizards before retiring for the final time in 2003.
Throughout his career, Jordan was a 14-time NBA All-Star, a 10-time scoring champion, and a five-time league MVP.
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