1992 NBA Finals Game 1 vs Portland Trail Blazers (Shrug Game)
The Shrug Game: Jordan's record first half leads Bulls to Game 1 win.
The 1992 NBA Finals was the championship series of the NBA's 1991–92 season, and the conclusion of the season's playoffs. The defending NBA champion and Eastern Conference champion Chicago Bulls took on the Western Conference champion Portland Trail Blazers for the title, with Chicago having home court advantage, as they had the best record in the NBA that season.
- Player
- Michael Jordan
- Team
- Chicago Bulls
- Opponent
- Portland Trail Blazers
- Series
- 1992 NBA Finals
- Key Moment
- 6 first-half three-pointers on 6 attempts
Lore & Background
Michael Jordan dominated from the beginning, breaking the record for most points in a first half in the playoffs once held by Elgin Baylor (Jordan had 35, Baylor had 33). This included six first-half threes (also a record). It was after the sixth three-pointer that Jordan turned towards the broadcast table and famously shrugged to indicate his surprise. Jordan's shrug became a highlight reel mainstay. Portland held their final lead at 45–44 in the second quarter before Chicago went on a 22–6 run to grab a 66–51 halftime lead and take control. The Bulls finished with a 122–89 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the Memorial Coliseum hung heavy with anticipation until Jordan caught the ball at the top of the key. *Swish.* Then another. And another. The roar of the home crowd curdled into a confused, nervous murmur as the sixth three-pointer sliced through the net in rapid succession. As he jogged back on defense, sweat catching the glare of the arena lights, Jordan didn't celebrate with a scream or a fist pump. He simply paused, looked upward with a half-smile, and spread his arms wide—palms up in a silent, baffled question to the universe that echoed louder than any cheer.
Reader's Guide
The Bulls won the series in six games, becoming the fourth NBA team to win back-to-back championships after the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, and Detroit Pistons. Michael Jordan was named Finals Most Valuable Player for the second year in a row, to go with his sixth straight regular season scoring title.
Did You Know?
- Michael Jordan scored 35 points in the first half of Game 1, breaking Elgin Baylor's playoff record of 33.
- Jordan made six three-pointers in the first half of Game 1, setting a playoff record.
- The Bulls won Game 1 by a score of 122–89.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shrug Game?
This nickname refers to Game 1 of the 1992 NBA Finals where Michael Jordan dominated with an unprecedented first-half scoring explosion. It occurred on June 3, 1992, at Memorial Coliseum in Portland.
Why is it called the Shrug Game?
The name comes from Jordan's signature shrug after hitting a record-breaking streak of six three-pointers in one half. This gesture highlighted his confidence and dismissal of the opposing defense.
Who played in this iconic match?
The Chicago Bulls faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers during their championship series matchup. Michael Jordan led the Bulls to a decisive victory over the Blazers.
What was Michael Jordan's specific record in this game?
Jordan made six three-point attempts on six tries, all before halftime began. This remains one of the most iconic individual performances ever recorded in Finals history.
More in Iconic Matches
Elsewhere in the Chicago Bulls universe
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