Clash of the Titans II: Michael Jordan vs Wilt Chamberlain

Michael Jordan's production for a Guard is staggering. (30+ ppg, 10 scoring titles, 6 Finals MVP's, 5 NBA MVP's, 6 seasons of 50% shooting or higher) Jordan was and still is the gold standard for perimeter players. His numbers are comparable to that of Big Men, which is why the best comparisons for him would be against them. Therefore, in this presentation, I will compare him to the Iconic Wilt Chamberlain. Both Michael and Wilt Chamberlain have had tremendous runs in their prime. The peak value for both of them is off the charts. The NBA record books have their names written all over them. In terms of scoring, no one else is even within striking distance. (except at least Kareem) Both Michael and Wilt have won an unprecedented 7 consecutive scoring titles. I wanted to do this comparison just for personal interest, and for really good fun. I also hope to bridge some kind of gap between two of the greatest eras ever. (60's/70's-80's/90's) As long as both men are among the Top 3, I am satisfied. Now, let the battle begin:

                                                          Michael Jordan:

                                                                         vs.


                                                             Wilt Chamberlain:

Awards:

Rookie of the Year:
Michael Jordan: Yes
Wilt Chamberlain: Yes

All-Star Selections:
Michael Jordan: 14
Wilt Chamberlain: 13

All-NBA 1st Teams:
Michael Jordan: 10
Wilt Chamberlain: 7

MVP Awards:
Michael Jordan: 5
Wilt Chamberlain: 4

All-Defensive 1st Teams:
Michael Jordan: 9
Wilt Chamberlain: 2

*Keep in mind that All-Defensive Teams were not awarded until later in Wilt's career. I pointed this out in the West vs. Kobe comparison. Steals and Blocks were not recorded at all during Chamberlain's career. If so, who knows what kind of havoc he would have wreaked in Blocks? He already did major damage in Scoring and Rebounding. Therefore, Defensive Player of the Year is a moot point. Bill Russell was recognized as the Best Defender in that Era.

However, I must point out that Michael Jordan became the first player in NBA History to record 200 steals and 100 blocks in one season, as he did it twice. ('87 & '88) That is right! A SHOOTING GUARD with 100 BLOCKS in one season! Michael's shot blocking was very underrated. Hakeem Olajuwon and Scottie Pippen would be the next two players to achieve this feat.

Regular Season:

Seasons over 50 points per game:
Michael Jordan: 0
Wilt Chamberlain: 1

Seasons over 40 points per game:
Michael Jordan: 0
Wilt Chamberlain: 2

Seasons with 32 points per game or higher:
Michael Jordan: 5
Wilt Chamberlain: 7

Seasons over 30 points per game:
Michael Jordan: 8
Wilt Chamberlain: 7

Consecutive Scoring Titles:
Michael Jordan: 7
Wilt Chamberlain: 7

Career High Scoring Average (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: 37.1 (1987)
Wilt Chamberlain: 50.4 (1962)

Career High Total Points (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: 3,041 (1987)
Wilt Chamberlain: 4,029 (1962)

Career Averages (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: 30.12 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 49.7% FG (50%)
Wilt Chamberlain: 30.07 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 54% FG

Michael ranks 1st All-Time in Career Points Per Game. Wilt ranks 2nd. In the 1986-87 season, Michael Jordan became the first player in NBA history since Wilt Chamberlain to score 3,000 or more points in a season.


Career Player Efficiency Rating:
Michael Jordan: 27.91
Wilt Chamberlain: 26.13

Career Offensive Win Shares (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: 149.9
Wilt Chamberlain: 153.3

Career Defensive Win Shares (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: 64.1
Wilt Chamberlain: 93.9

Career Win Shares (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: 214.0
Wilt Chamberlain: 247.3

Career Win Shares Per 48 Minutes (Regular Season):
Michael Jordan: .250
Wilt Chamberlain: .248

Seasons leading the league in PER:
Michael Jordan: 7
Wilt Chamberlain: 8


I can't go much into detail with Rebounding, because of the different positions. (MJ-SG, Wilt-Center) However, while Wilt is 1st All-Time in Rebounding no matter the position, Michael Jordan is 3rd all-time in Rebounding for a guard. (Magic Johnson, Oscar Robertson) With his large hands, Jordan was able to grab boards with no problem as a perimeter player.

Obviously Wilt is going to shoot a higher field goal percentage because he was a Center who shot the most. Meanwhile, Michael was the Shooting Guard who shot the most. However, it must be said that Wilt shot 54% while Michael shot roughly 50% (51.5% as a Chicago Bull). Jordan's shooting percentage was that of a Big Man! As a Guard, he attacked the basket and scored like one.

Both have their fair share of haters. The one criticism that Michael and Wilt both share is that they "shot too much". Well, if they are shooting that percentage, wouldn't you WANT them to have the ball? This is merely even more of a testament to Michael's IQ and Excellent Shot Selection.


Now, let's take a look at the various records that both men hold in NBA history:

Michael Jordan Records:
Career Regular Season Scoring Average: MJ (30.12)
Career Playoff Scoring Average: MJ (33.45)
Highest Scoring Average in Playoffs: MJ (43.7)
Highest Scoring Average in NBA Finals series: MJ (41.0)
Highest Career Scoring Average in NBA Finals: MJ (33.6)
Career Total Points in Playoffs: MJ (5,987)
Most Seasons leading league in Scoring: MJ (10)
Most Seasons leading in Total Points: MJ (11)
Most 50 Point Games in Playoffs: MJ (8)
Most 40 Point Games in Playoffs: MJ (38)
Most 30 Point Games in Playoffs: MJ (109)
Most 30 Point Games: MJ (563)
Most Consecutive 50 Point games in Playoffs: MJ (2)
Most Consecutive 45 Point games in Playoffs: MJ (3)
Most Consecutive 40 Point games in Finals: MJ (4)
Most Consecutive 30 point games in Finals: MJ (9)
Most Consecutive 20 point games in Playoffs: MJ (60)
Most Consecutive 20 point games in Finals: MJ (35)
Most Consecutive games in double-figure scoring: MJ (866)
Highest scoring playoff game: MJ (63)
Most points in one-half of NBA Finals: MJ (35)
Oldest to score 50: MJ (51- age 38)
Oldest to score 40: MJ (43- age 40)


Wilt Chamberlain Records:
Most Points in Regular Season: Wilt (4,029)
Highest Scoring Average in Regular Season: Wilt (50.4)
Most Points in a Game by a Rookie: Wilt (58, 1/25/1960 & 2/21/1960)
Most Points by a Rookie: Wilt (2,707- 1959-60)
Most PPG by a Rookie: Wilt (37.6)
Most 60 point games: Wilt (32)
Most 50 point games: Wilt (118)
Most 40 point games: Wilt (271)
Most Consecutive 60 point games: Wilt (4)
Most Consecutive 50 point games: Wilt (7)
Most Consecutive 45 point games: Wilt (7)
Most Consecutive 40 point games: Wilt (14)
Most Consecutive 35 point games: Wilt (33)
Most Consecutive 30 point games: Wilt (65)
Most Consecutive 20 point games: Wilt (126)
Highest Scoring Game: Wilt (100)
Most Points in All-Star Game: Wilt (42)
Most points in 3 quarters: Wilt (69)
Most points in one half: Wilt (59)

*Consecutive Seasons Leading the League in Scoring: MJ, Wilt (tied at 7)

Out of the recognized scoring records in NBA history, Michael Jordan holds 24, Wilt Chamberlain holds 20.  (If you include Wilt's rookie records)

Bonus:
Fewest Games to Reach 20,000 points: Wilt (499)
Fewest Games to Reach 30,000 points: Wilt (941)

Career +60 point games:
Michael Jordan: 5
Wilt Chamberlain: 32

Career +50 point games:
Michael Jordan: 34
Wilt Chamberlain: 118

Career +40 point games:
Michael Jordan: 172
Wilt Chamberlain: 271

Career +30 point games:
Michael Jordan: 563
Wilt Chamberlain: 515


Scoring Titles:
Michael Jordan: 10
Wilt Chamberlain: 7

Even though Wilt had a more impressive scoring peak, Jordan maintained his level of scoring dominance for three more seasons. Michael and Wilt have the most consecutive scoring titles in NBA history. Both are neck and neck as far as scoring impact. When you look at many of Wilt's scoring records, Michael Jordan is somewhere in second place in many categories:

60 point games- Wilt (1), MJ (2)
50 point games- Wilt (1), MJ (2)
40 point games- Wilt (1), MJ (2)

Michael was even second behind Wilt in fewest games to reach 20,000 points (620), and fewest games to reach 30,000 (960).

As many of you may notice, Wilt has a strong advantage when it comes to the regular season because of his video game-like numbers. Wilt is only second place to Michael in Scoring Titles, and 30 point games. However, you may also notice that Michael has the advantage when it comes to the playoffs as well. This is where the separation really begins.

Career Averages (Playoffs):
Michael Jordan: 33.45 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 5.7 apg, 48.7% FG
Wilt Chamberlain: 22.5 ppg, 24.5 rpg, 4.2 apg, 46.5% FG

NBA Playoff runs over 30 ppg:
Michael Jordan: 12
Wilt Chamberlain: 4

Playoff runs over 32 ppg:
Michael Jordan: 8
Wilt Chamberlain: 4

Playoff runs over 34 ppg:
Michael Jordan: 7
Wilt Chamberlain: 3

Michael's level of play increased during the postseason, while Wilt's level of play dropped. Not only did Wilt's scoring take a blow, but his field goal percentage did as well. The only thing that went up for Wilt in the playoffs was his rebounding. Michael was the ultimate postseason player. Wilt's drop is a big part of the reason why people say that he was a "choker". Not all of that is true, because for a while Wilt did not have the right supporting cast against a team like the Celtics. Yes, Chamberlain blew his fair share of games, but don't put ALL of the blame on him. He was largely a one-man army. Wilt later had to change his game by dialing back his scoring for his teams to win championships. This is what helped cause his drop in points. Jordan was able to keep his scoring title while leading his teams to championships. I will say this in Wilt's defense. Jordan and Chamberlain led what are considered by many as three of the Greatest Championship teams of All-Time:

Michael Jordan:
1995-96 Chicago Bulls (72-10) (MVP- MJ)

Wilt Chamberlain:
1966-67 Philadelphia 76ers (68-13) (MVP- Wilt)
1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers (69-13, 33 game winning streak)

Michael won MVP in '96, while Wilt won it in '67. The 1997 Bulls also won 69 games. The Big separation between the '72 Lakers and '97 Bulls is that the Lakers had the winning streak (33), which made that team even more memorable.

With that said, Wilt Chamberlain was NOT the performer that Michael Jordan was in the Playoffs, especially the NBA Finals:

Finals MVP's:
Michael Jordan: 6 in 6 tries
Wilt Chamberlain: 2 in 6 tries

(The Finals MVP was not awarded in 1967. If it was, Chamberlain would have won it.)

Conclusion:

This is merely a discussion of peak value versus consistency. Taking everything into consideration, Michael was slightly a more consistent scorer than Wilt in the long run. Michael also brought more to the table as a team leader. You can't go wrong with either one. This comparison is always very fun, and is also a testament to how iron clad Wilt's legacy will always be. Both of these men are on my personal Mt. Rushmore of Basketball, along with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson. This is to show how the LeBron's, Kobe's and Durant's of the world CANNOT even come within a 40 foot pole of players like MJ and Wilt.

Winner: Michael Jordan

Case Closed!

Michael Jordan: Flying High at 50

As we celebrate All-Star Weekend, it is only appropriate that we also celebrate another major milestone: NBA Royalty Michael Jordan turns 50! Jordan certainly created many great moments during the All-Star Weekend (87-88 Slam Dunk Battles with Dominique, 40 points in '88 ASG in Chicago, etc) What else is there to be said about Michael Jordan that has not been said? He is the ultimate prototype of a total package player. Jordan was a jack of all-trades, and master of all in a number of categories:

• Basketball IQ
• Scoring
• Defense
• Playmaking
• Leadership
• Team Play
• Competitive Drive
• Consistency
• Athleticism
• Agility
• Innovation
• Individual Brilliance
• Clutch Play 
• Ultimate Regular Season/Playoff Performer

 Jordan's first flash of brilliance took place at the University of North Carolina, under Coach Dean Smith. People assume that Jordan first learned team basketball under Phil Jackson, but that is far from the truth. This is the place where Jordan ultimately blended within the team concept, because his numbers in college tell the story (17.7/5.0/1.8 FG%-54, 3pt%-45, FT%-75). In his freshman year (1981-82), Jordan helped lead the Tar Heels to a National Title, with his signature game winning shot over Patrick Ewing & the Georgetown Hoyas. Here are Jordan's accomplishments from his great NCAA career

• 1982 NCAA Champion
• 1982-83 NCAA AP All-American 1st Team
• 1983-84 NCAA AP All-American 1st Team
• 1983-84 AP Player of the Year
• 1983-84 NCAA John Wooden Award
• 1983-84 Naismith Men's College Player of the Year Award

Jordan achieved this while being in a toned down system. After his fantastic junior season, Jordan would go on to take his game to the pros, where he was drafted 3rd Overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 1984 NBA Draft. As a rookie, Michael immediately set the league on fire, averaging 28.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 5.9 apg, and 2.4 spg, while shooting 51% from the floor. This production not only earned Michael Rookie of the Year, but also a place as the starter for the Eastern Conference All-Stars, All-Rookie 1st Team, and All-NBA 2nd Team. Jordan also led the league in Total Points that season. (2,313) He also finished 6th place in MVP Voting. Jordan's momentum was temporarily put on hold the following season (1985-86), because of foot injury, which limited him to only 18 games. However, the playoffs were only a sign of things to come from Michael in the future. In the first round of the 1986 Playoffs against the Celtics, MJ unleashed a playoff record 63 points on the future champion Boston Celtics, who had the #1 Defense that season. (By the way, this Celtics team is widely considered to be there very best, and that speaks even more volumes about Michael's greatness) With that game, MJ put the league on further notice, that he was next in line after Magic & Larry. That fire from the playoffs extended into the next season. In 1986-87, Jordan went on a scoring rampage. That season, he averaged a career-high in points (3,041), and scoring average (37.1), snatching his first of 10 future scoring titles. Michael became the first player since Wilt Chamberlain ('61, '62, '63) to score at least 3,000 points, while averaging at least 37 ppg. ('60, '61, '62, '63). That season, Jordan also had a 9-game streak of 40 points or more:

41- Nov. 28, 1986 @ L.A. Lakers

40- Nov. 29, 1986 @ Golden State

40- Dec. 2, 1986 @ Seattle

45- Dec. 3, 1986 @ Utah

43- Dec. 5, 1986 @ Phoenix

43- Dec. 6, 1986 @ San Antonio

40- Dec. 9, 1986 @ Denver

41- Dec. 10, 1986 @ Atlanta

41- Dec. 12, 1986 @ Milwaukee

That season, Michael would go on to have at least 37 games of 40 or more points. What is even more astonishing is the fact that Michael NEVER had a game with 81 points, but yet he STILL scored over 3,000 points that season. He also earned his 3rd straight All-Star appearance (1987 Slam Dunk Champion), along with his first All-NBA 1st Team appearance. This was such a breakout season, that Jordan finished 2nd in MVP Voting, only to Magic Johnson. The Lakers also had Michael Cooper as their DPOY, but Jordan still found a way to drop 41 on him. This was truly a benchmark season, because this was the OFFICIAL start of Michael Jordan's Prime. (1987-1993) Michael also became the first player in NBA history to record 200 steals (236), and 100 blocks (125). Unfortunately, he was never given credit for his defense that year. 

Here is a look at some of the other 40+ point games MJ had back in 1987:


                                           Jordan's first 50-point game VS. Knicks at MSG:

Michael Jordan's 53 pts. vs. Clyde Drexler's Blazers:

                                         MJ drops another 53 vs. Pacers (70% FG): (Long before LeBron)

                                                MJ vs. Dominque (61 points vs. Hawks):

                                    MJ drops 44 on Akeem's Olajuwon's Houston Rockets 

                                     Michael delivers 61 on Detroit Pistons (Bad Boys): 5th Ranked Defense

                                                   
In 1987-88, Michael would leave a mark even bigger than the one he left the previous season. That season, he captured his 2nd straight scoring title (35.0 ppg), while leading the league in steals for the first time (3.2). He also recorded at least 200 steals, and 100 blocks for the second consecutive season. (259 steals, 131 blocks) Jordan made his 2nd straight All-NBA 1st Team, and his first All-Defensive 1st Team. During All-Star Weekend, Michael engaged in the greatest Slam Dunk battle of all-time Vs. Dominique Wilkins. Jordan won his 2nd Straight Dunk Contest in his Battleground of Chicago, while also winning ASG MVP the following night. With his incredible season, Jordan won his 1st of 5 NBA MVP Awards, where he beat out Magic Johnson and Larry Bird in another strong race. He also won Defensive Player of the Year. However, Michael's success was short-lived, because the Bulls would run into a brick wall named "The Bad Boy Pistons" during the Eastern Conference Semis, 4-1. In 1988-89, Jordan was forced to take on even more of a utility role, filling in at Point Guard for an injured John Paxson. Michael was able to display another dimension to his game as an all-around player. That season, he won his 3rd straight scoring title (32.5 ppg), while averaging career-highs in both rebounds, and assists (8.0 rpg, 8.0 apg). Jordan also had 7 straight games with at least a Triple-Double. Today's fans are so fascinated with LeBron's all-around game, that they tend to forget about the versatility of MJ. That season was also most notable for the game against the Cavs in the playoffs, where Jordan hits "The Shot" over Craig Ehlo, saving Chicago's postseason. The Bulls would go on to play the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time, ultimately falling to them 4-2. During this time, Pistons Coach Chuck Daly devised a set of defensive rules specifically for Jordan called "The Jordan Rules". This was instituted right after Jordan's 59 point game against them on April 3, 1988.

                                                        Here is that very game:
                                    Michael Jordan 59 points vs. Pistons (4/3/88)

The system was designed to double and triple-team Michael every time that he had the ball in his hands. The Pistons knew that Michael's teammates were not a threat. However, things would change in Chicago's favor. The Bulls hired Phil Jackson as head coach, along with Tex Winter as assistant coach. Jackson's first move was to implement the "Triangle Offense". Under this new system, everyone was occupied and involved. Initially, Jordan didn't understand, because he thought Phil was trying to take the ball away from him. However, the system was built to move the ball around for everyone else, so that Jordan would not get swarmed so easily with double-teams. In this Offense, Michael also sacrificed his ball-in hand game to help Scottie Pippen develop as more of a ball-handler. Not only did Scottie improve, but so did others like Horace Grant, Paxson and so on. Not much changed in Michael's production. In 1989-90, Jordan had a season very similar to the previous one. That season, he averaged 33.6 ppg (1st), 7 rpg, and 6 apg, shooting 54% from the floor. Jordan also led the league in steals for the second time in his career. With the new Triangle Offense, Detroit's "Jordan Rules" became less effective. In the postseason, the Bulls made their second straight trip to the ECF vs. Detroit. This time, The Bulls took The Pistons to their limit. Although  Chicago would fall 4-3, they found what it ultimately took to defeat their blood rivals. The Bulls regrouped for the following season. In 1990-91, Michael earned his 2nd MVP Award (31.5/6.0/5.5), while leading the Bulls to a 61-21 record. (1st in Eastern Conference) Finally, the pieces fell together in the proper places for the Bulls. In the playoffs, Chicago swept the Knicks off the court (3-0), demolished Philadelphia (4-1), and murdered the Isiah & Bad Boy Era in a sweep. (4-0) The Bulls would make their 1st Finals Appearance in Franchise history against the Los Angeles Lakers. (Team of the '80s) Michael would finally have the chance to prove himself on the biggest stage, against the best player from the previous decade, Mr. Earvin Magic Johnson. Magic was the king of the mountain during the '80s, being the leader/co-leader of the Lakers leading them to 5 Championship. He was the consummate team leader, who made everyone around him better. During this series, Jordan dismantled the Lakers, and matched Magic in playmaking.

1991 NBA Finals (Michael vs. Magic):

Total Points:
Jordan: 156
Magic: 93

Game-High:
Jordan: 36
Magic: 22

PPG:
Jordan: 31.2
Magic: 18.6

Field Goal Percentage:
Jordan: 55%
Magic: 43%

3-Point Percentage:
Jordan: 50%
Magic: 29%

Free-Throw Percentage:
Jordan: 85%
Magic: 95%

Rebounds:
Jordan: 33
Magic: 40

RPG:
Jordan: 6.6
Magic: 8.0

Assists:
Jordan: 37
Magic: 62

APG:
Jordan: 11.4
Magic: 12.4

Steals:
Jordan: 14
Magic: 6

SPG:
Jordan: 2.8
Magic: 1.2

Blocks:
Jordan: 7
Magic: 0

BPG:
Jordan: 1.4

Michael AVERAGED 11 Assists, IN THE FINALS! Come back to me when LeBron does that! With this outstanding performance, Michael not only won his first ring, but also his 1st Finals MVP. In this series, Jordan snatched the torch from Magic, and dethroned him as the King of the NBA Castle. This was the official changing of the guard, as Michael proved that even a scoring champion can win an NBA Championship. The NBA landscape changed even more from this moment. The thing that made this even more significant, is the fact Jordan won his first title, by conquering Magic's Lakers. That adds even greater value to his first championship run.


In 1991-92, Michael Jordan won his second straight MVP Award (30.1/6.4/6.1), while leading the Bulls to a 67-15 record. (franchise best at the time) Chicago's record improved, in large part because of the emergence of Scottie Pippen, along with B.J. Armstrong, & co. However, the road to the playoffs became even tougher for the Bulls. After sweeping the Miami Heat (3-0), the Bulls faced a very strong Knicks team in a seven-game series that had its fair share of controversy. Chicago emerged (4-3), and advanced to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers in the ECF. (4-2) In the NBA Finals, the Chicago Bulls would face a powerhouse Portland Trailblazers Squad. Michael would face yet another NBA Superstar. This time, it was Clyde "The Glide" Drexler. During the season, Drexler finished 2nd place in MVP Voting behind Jordan. This caused the media to draw numerous comparisons between the two, because they played the same position, similar size, and playing style. The Finals was billed as "Jordan vs. Drexler", and the series did not disappoint. This was the ultimate way for Michael to make the distinct separation between himself and Clyde, as he emerged victorious over his contemporary.

1992 NBA Finals (Michael "Air" Jordan vs. Clyde "The Glide" Drexler):

Total Points:
Jordan: 215
Drexler: 149

Game-High:
Jordan: 46
Drexler: 32

PPG:
Jordan: 35.8
Drexler: 24.8

Field Goal Percentage:
Jordan: 52%
Drexler: 40%

3-Point Percentage:
Jordan: 42%
Drexler: 15%

Free-Throw Percentage:
Jordan: 89%
Drexler: 89%

Rebounds:
Jordan: 29
Drexler: 47

RPG:
Jordan: 4.8
Drexler: 7.8

Assists:
Jordan: 39
Drexler: 32

APG:
Jordan: 6.5
Drexler: 5.3

Steals:
Jordan: 10
Drexler: 8

SPG:
Jordan: 1.7
Drexler: 1.3

Blocks:
Jordan: 2
Drexler: 6

BPG:
Jordan: 0.3
Drexler: 1.0

The highlight of this series was Jordan setting a then-record 6 three pointers in one game. (35 points in one half) Michael was rewarded his second straight NBA Finals MVP Award. During the summer, Michael also won his 2nd Olympic Gold Medal, as a member of the 1992 Dream Team. 1992 was a brilliant year for Michael Jordan. He achieved a Triple-Crown, (NBA MVP, Finals MVP, Olympic Gold Medal) becoming the first player in NBA history to achieve this feat. Jordan's explosion in popularity expanded the league's fan market. He took the game Magic & Larry saved, and brought it to even greater heights, which no one thought could be seen. Larry Bird & Magic Johnson raised the league's popularity & revenue from a national standpoint. Jordan made it even more acceptable from an international standpoint, as an American player. Ratings flew even higher, and the brands of other players received greater exposure as well. (Barkley, Karl Malone, David Robinson, Drexler, and others) The 1992-93 Season got off to a slow start for the Bulls, because of the lack of rest for Jordan & Pippen after the Olympics. Chicago finished the season with a record of 55-27. In spite of the early hurdle, Jordan still played at the highest level in the NBA. (32.6/6.7/5.5) MJ captured his 7th straight scoring title (tying Wilt Chamberlain), while leading the league in steals for the 3rd time. (2.8 spg) However, Jordan finished 3rd in MVP Voting, behind Defensive Player of the Year Hakeem Olajuwon (2nd), and Charles Barkley (1st). The media felt that they needed to promote another star as the MVP. They chose Barkley, because of his production, with a better team. (Phoenix Suns: 62-20) This only fueled Michael's competitive fire even more, to show who the REAL MVP was. After two straight sweeps (3-0 vs. Atlanta, 4-0 vs. Cleveland), Chicago would go on to face Phoenix, led by Charles Barkley.

1993 NBA Finals (Michael Jordan vs. Charles Barkley):

Total Points:
Jordan: 246
Barkley: 164

Game-High:
Jordan: 55
Barkley: 42

PPG:
Jordan: 41.0
Barkley: 27.3

Field Goal Percentage:
Jordan: 51%
Barkley: 47%

3-Point Percentage:
Jordan: 40%
Barkley: 25%

Free-Throw Percentage:
Jordan: 69%
Barkley: 75%

Rebounds:
Jordan: 51
Barkley: 78

RPG:
Jordan: 8.5
Barkley: 13.0

Assists:
Jordan: 38
Barkley: 33

APG:
Jordan: 6.3
Barkley: 5.5

Steals:
Jordan: 10
Barkley: 7

SPG:
Jordan: 1.7
Barkley: 1.2

Blocks:
Jordan: 4
Barkley: 3

BPG:
Jordan: 0.7
Barkley: 0.5

Jordan went on an absolute rampage, torching Phoenix for an NBA Finals record in scoring (41.0 ppg), which earned him his 3rd straight Finals MVP Award. Michael carried a tremendous amount of weight during this first 3-peat. This is weight that even Shaq had not carried. This first Bulls teams had Michael's DNA all over it. Jordan's first run (84-93) was beyond legendary. It was straight ICONIC! This was Michael at his apex, because he clearly mastered EVERYTHING during this time. (Physically, Athletically, Statistically, etc) He had the perfect combination of top speed, full strength, agility, all rolled into one. Jordan finally put the icing on his cake, with his team achievements. (championships) Even during this time, Michael was widely considered to be the greatest of all-time, by the likes of Magic Johnson, and others. Then, at the age of 30, he decided to walk away to play baseball, following the death of his father. For years, there has been speculation about this. I firmly believe that he left, because he wanted to pay tribute to his Dad, by playing baseball. (something he wanted him to do) Plus, the psychological damage was too strong after something that devastating. Unfortunately, too many new school fans want to bash him for leaving, in their agenda to praise Kobe for playing 17 years, without a break. They want to use this as an excuse to say Kobe is tougher. Now, I will take the time to address this nonsense: Michael achieved MUCH MORE, against tougher competition than Kobe & co. WITHOUT being stopped by an injury. Michael played through pain, so that was not an issue for him. It would make absolutely no sense for Jordan to be the greatest ever, but have a physical problem playing 10+ seasons. It was purely personal. When Michael retired in 1993, his body of work was much more impressive. He achieved MORE before baseball, than what Kobe, & LeBron have achieved in their entire careers. (20k + points, 7 scoring titles, 3 League MVP's, 3 Finals MVP's, in 9 seasons) He was still active, and working hard even in baseball.

In the middle-to-end of the 1994-95 season, Jordan made a MAJOR announcement with two words: "I'm Back!". MJ returned in a very large way as well. In his first game back, the Bulls took on the Knicks in Madison Square Garden. Michael wore his number from baseball (45), and delivered a classic 55-point game in a win against New York. This will always be remembered as the "Double-Nickel" game. Chicago would go to the ECF, where they were swept by the Orlando Magic. (Led by the NBA's new blood, Shaquille O'Neal & Penny Hardaway) Nick Anderson made a comment after the series, saying "Jordan was not the same", because he was out of basketball shape. In hindsight, I agree, because Jordan lost at least a slight step from before, because his body had become bulkier since he came back. Initially, Jordan was still not in basketball shape, and it showed during the 1995 ECF vs. Orlando. (Magic swept Bulls, 4-0)

The Chicago Bulls regrouped for the 1996-96 season, better than ever as a team. In his first full season, Michael Jordan recaptured the NBA scoring title for the 8th time (30.4/6.6/4.3), breaking Wilt Chamberlain's record for most scoring titles. Michael also led the revamped Bulls team to an historic 72-10 record. (best in NBA History) For this fantastic return, Michael was named the NBA MVP for the 4th time. In his All-Star Game return, he was also named ASG MVP. With newly acquired Tony Kukoc, former Pistons rival Dennis Rodman (San Antonio), Ron Harper (Clippers), and perennial sidekick Scottie Pippen, Chicago picked up right where they left off from when MJ first retired. The Bulls stomped out perennial whipping boy Miami (3-0 1st round), along with New York (4-1), before going to the Eastern Conference Finals to take care of unfinished business from the previous year. Remembering the embarrassing way their season ended, Chicago turned the tables, by sweeping Orlando, 4-0. This was their way of letting the young guns like Shaq know "We're back!". In the Finals, the Bulls would face a defensive force in the Western Conference, the Seattle Supersonics, who were led by "The Glove" Gary Payton. Payton was named the 1995-96 Defensive Player of the Year, while leading the league in steals. (2.9 spg) Along with premier PF "The Reign Man" Shawn Kemp, & co., the Sonics were 1st in the West (64-18). It was the Beast from the East (Chicago) vs. the Best from the West (Seattle). This series was clearly a defensive struggle to say the least. Both teams were powerhouses on defense. The contributions of Rodman, and Kukoc were vital in this series. This was clearly not Jordan's finest performance in the NBA Finals. (27.3/5.3/4.2) However, because he was the leader of the team, he won his 4th Finals MVP Award. Michael joined Willis Reed, as the second player in NBA history to win All-Star Game, Regular Season, and Finals MVP in the same season. The 1996-97 season was not much different from before. The Chicago Bulls finished the season 69-13 (tied w/1972 Lakers), with Jordan winning his 9th scoring title. (29.6/5.9/4.3) Clearly, Jordan was the best player in the league, with the best team! However, once again the media gets tired of naming MJ the MVP just like in '93. This time, they give the award to Karl Malone. After sweeping the Bullets in the 1st round (3-0), Chicago would overcome New York in another 7-game series (4-3). For the first time ever, the Bulls would face the Miami Heat (led by Alonzo Mourning & Tim Hardaway), in the Eastern Conference Finals. However, Chicago made short work of them, putting out the Heat, 4-1. Jordan would get his revenge in the Finals, as the Bulls took on the Utah Jazz in the NBA Finals. The signature game for the series, was the "Flu Game". This was an example of how Michael had to rely on his heart, determination, and will to win like never before. Jordan returned to form in the Finals (32.3/7.0/6.0), while leading the Bulls to their 5th title. MJ was named Finals MVP for the 5th time, while the Mailman could not deliver. 1997-98 would be Jordan's farewell as a Chicago Bull. This season was a great way to go out for him, too. Michael won his 10th scoring title (28.7/5.8/3.5), along with his 5th MVP Award. During this same time, the media started building Kobe Bryant to compare him with MJ. Jordan would silence the critics in the All-Star Game, by winning the game's MVP Award. In the playoffs, Chicago would go on to dethrone the New Jersey Nets (1st round, 3-0), and Charlotte Hornets (4-1, 2nd round), before a grueling series with the Pacers. Michael's decline was on full display during the series, but the Bulls prevailed (4-3) because of the supporting cast. The Bulls and Jazz would have a rematch in the Finals. The signature moment of the series, was Michael's iconic game-winning shot over Bryon Russell, after stealing the ball from Karl Malone. This was the ULTIMATE storybook ending to a career. No other way to go out. For years, younger players and fans dream about that shot, and fantasize about taking that dramatic game-winner. When the series was over, Jordan was named Finals MVP for the 6th time (33.5/4.0/2.3), while leading the Chicago Bulls to their 6th championship. The supporting cast for the second three-peat was extremely crucial, because they covered up Jordan's deficiencies during that time. Michael was declining, not just athletically, but it also showed up in his production. He was less efficient, averaged fewer points, steals, etc, and shot a lower field-goal percentage. That is a FACT! With that being said, the team from 96-98, covered up those flaws in his game.

Michael decided to give a final encore, when he returned to play for the Washington Wizards. Although he was more than a shell of his former self, Michael still showed signs of dominance against the premier players at the time: Paul Pierce, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady, Vince Carter, to name a few. In his return, Michael sparked a new interest in the Wizards. Attendance soared through the roof, with Jordan in a Wizard uniform. Michael also made the All-Star team in both seasons with Washington. In 2001-02 at age 39, Michael finished 13th in MVP Voting.

Michael Jordan was the closest thing to perfection on the basketball court. He was the greatest combination of athleticism with fundamentals. It is hard to find a great, talented athlete who understands, and uses technique. Many talented athletes just coast off of their natural abilities. Michael was the player who knew how to execute both equally. When his athleticism and speed diminished with age, he still had the IQ, and fundamentals to fall back on.

The legacy of Michael Jordan is unlike any other before, or after. For years, the media has constantly searched, and still searches for a "Like Mike" player. They will look for any form of flash, and charisma to match with MJ. Each player that has been compared to him has fallen under the pressure & burden: Penny Hardaway, Grant Hill, Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, were all destroyed by the injury virus. Kobe has gone the farthest, because of how he has ripped Jordan's style 100%, and smart people see through it. Even he has felt the pressure, and it has hindered his legacy as well. If it weren't for playing with a wealthy franchise (Lakers), he would fall in line with everyone else. LeBron James has decided to carve out his own identity, so he avoids it. (Plus, he changed his number) Although Dwyane Wade has been a member of 2 championship teams, injuries have plagued him as well. None of these players achievements, and level of play meet or exceed the enormous Jordan standard in any way. (Not even Kobe)

Michael's ability to raise his game is unmatched. His body of work speaks for itself. With that said, here are his accomplishments:

15-year career (1984-93, 95-98, 2001-03)

• 14-time NBA All-Star
• 5-time NBA MVP (1988, '91, '92, '96, '98)
• Second-Place for MVP 3 times ('87, '89, '97)
• Third-Place twice ('90, '93)
• Top 5 ten times ('87-'93, '96-'98)
• Top 10 (1985)
• 10-time Scoring Champion (1987-'93, '96-'98- 1st All-Time)
• Consecutive Scoring Titles (7- tied for 1st w/Wilt Chamberlain)
• 8 Seasons of 30+ ppg
• 5 Seasons of 32+ ppg
• 3-time Steals Champion (1988, '90, '93)
• Defensive Player of the Year (1988)
• 10-time All-NBA 1st Team Selection ('87-'93, '96-'98)
• 9-time All-Defensive 1st Team Selection ('88-'93, '96-'98)
• All-NBA 2nd Team Selection (1985)
• All-Rookie 1st Team Selection (1985)
• NBA Rookie of the Year (1985)
• 6-time NBA Finals MVP ('91-'93, '96-'98,- 1st All-Time)
• Undefeated in NBA Finals as leader (6-0)
• 3-time All-Star Game MVP ('88, '96, '98)
• Olympic Gold Medal Winner (1984, '92)
• Member of 1992 Dream Team
• 32,292 Career Total Points (3rd in NBA History)
• 1st All-Time in Career Player Efficiency Rating (27.91)
• Regular Season: 30.12 PPG (1st All-Time), 6.2 rpg, 5.3 apg, 49.7% FG, (round-up to 50%) (51% as a Bull) 83.5% FT (1,072 Career Games)
• Playoffs: 33.45 PPG (1st All-Time), 6.4 rpg, 5.7 apg, 48.7% FG, 82.8% FT (179 Games)
• 24 Scoring Records (Regular Season/Playoffs combined-1st All-Time)
• 34+ ppg in 7 Different Playoff Series
• Highest Scoring Average in Finals history (41.0 ppg, 51% FG- '93 Finals vs. Phoenix)
• Most Points in a Playoff Game (63)
• Most Points in one half, Finals game (35)
• 2,514 Career Steals (3rd All-Time)
• 2.3 Steals Per Game (5th All-Time)

Here is a mini-tribute for Jordan's birthday. Enjoy!
                                                     
                                                         

Happy Birthday to His Airness! Flight 23!

(Special Thanks to Hoopsencyclopedia, and Clutch 23 Productions for the videos)