1998 Eastern Conference Semifinals Game 7 vs Pacers

Lore & Background

This was the first playoff meeting between the Bulls and the Pacers. The Pacers forced a Game 7 by winning Game 6, becoming one of only two teams to force a Game 7 in the Bulls' title years (the Knicks achieved this in 1992). Game 7 was the first (and as of 2025, only) Game 7 to take place at the United Center, and it was the last Game 7 the Bulls would play until 2009.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the United Center was thick with sweat and anticipation, the roar of the crowd a constant hum beneath the squeak of sneakers on hardwood. As the clock wound down in the final minute, the arena seemed to hold its breath. Jordan, eyes locked on the rim, drove into the paint, absorbing contact from two defenders before rising for the shot that would seal the series. The net snapped, silence broke into chaos, and a dynasty's final chapter was written not with a whisper, but with a roar.

Reader's Guide

The Bulls entered the postseason with a 62–20 record, clinching the best record in the Eastern Conference and home court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Pacers entered with a franchise-record 58 wins.

Did You Know?

• This was the first playoff meeting between the Bulls and the Pacers.
• The Pacers were one of only two teams to force a Game 7 in the Bulls' title years.
• Game 7 was the first Game 7 at the United Center and the last Bulls Game 7 until 2009.