1997 Eastern Conference Semifinals Game 6 vs Cavaliers

Lore & Background

The Bulls completed the 3-peat by beating Utah again in 1998. Michael Jordan was named NBA Finals MVP for the fifth time.

In Their Own Story

The United Center hummed with a low, anxious energy before tip-off. The air smelled of popcorn and anticipation. As the Cavaliers lined up on the baseline, their jerseys stark against the hardwood, Michael Jordan stood at the free-throw line extension, eyes locked on the rim. He didn't need to shout; his presence commanded the court. When he drove past a defender, the crowd roared, a wave of sound that seemed to lift him higher than gravity allowed. It wasn't just a game; it was a statement.

Reader's Guide

The Bulls clinched the best record in the NBA and earned home court advantage throughout the entire playoffs. They swept the Washington Bullets in the first round, then defeated the Atlanta Hawks in the conference semifinals.

Did You Know?

• Game 3 of the Bulls–Bullets series was the last playoff game ever played at the USAir Arena.
• Game 4 of the Bulls–Hawks series was the last game ever played at the Omni Coliseum.
• Scottie Pippen made the series-winning dunk with 7.4 seconds left as the Bulls swept the Bullets 96–95.
• Michael Jordan hit a jumper as time expired in Game 1 of the NBA Finals to give the Bulls an 84–82 win.