1998 NBA Finals Game 6 (The Last Shot)

Lore & Background

As the Bulls arrived at Delta Center for Game 6, Scottie Pippen aggravated his back injury when he dunked the opening basket. He scored only 8 points. Michael Jordan scored 23 points in the first half. In the fourth quarter, Jordan's two free throws tied the game with a minute left. John Stockton hit a three-pointer with 41.9 seconds left to give Utah an 86–83 lead. After Jordan made a layup to make it 86–85, Jordan stole the ball from Karl Malone. With 10 seconds remaining, Jordan crossed over Bryon Russell and buried a 20-foot jumper to give the Bulls an 87–86 lead with 5.2 seconds left. Stockton missed a potential game-winning three-pointer. Jordan scored 45 points and was named Finals MVP.

In Their Own Story

The arena hummed with anticipation as the clock wound down in Salt Lake City. Jordan stood at mid-court, eyes locked on the rim while defenders closed in from every angle. He took a breath, dribbled once, and rose above the defense to release the ball into the night air.

Reader's Guide

This was Jordan's final NBA championship and Finals MVP. As of 2026, this is Chicago's most recent championship and Finals appearance.

Did You Know?

• Michael Jordan scored 45 points in Game 6.
• Scottie Pippen scored only 8 points due to a back injury.
• The Bulls won their third consecutive NBA title and sixth in eight seasons.
• This was Jordan's sixth NBA championship and sixth Finals MVP award in six full basketball seasons.