Dissecting ‘Embarrassed’ Michael Jordan?s 27YO Defeat, $3 Billion Worth Bulls Member Once Unveiled Lost Hope: ?Could Have Easily Won?

Building a career worthy of a Hall of Fame is one thing. But to add to it to the extent that you are arguably the GOAT is a whole other conversation. Yet, for Michael Jordan, that was exactly the case. Whether you count scores, rings, or influence, ‘Hir Airness’ has it all. However, there is still one unique achievement.

But, according to Chicago Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf, the mark could have been even more impressive.

Could the record-breaking ’96 season have been any better?

For years, one of the biggest feathers in Jordan’s cap has been his complete dominance during the 1996 season. Making first-team all-defense, winning the scoring title, winning MVP, and leading his team to the most wins in NBA history and the championship, the season was one of a kind.

Even with that said, according to Jerry, it could have been even better. If you believe him, the Bulls were a few lucky bounces away from perfecting their record even more. Speaking in Sam Smith’s book, the legendary owner highlighted the story.

“They could have won close to eighty games… It was part of Michael’s greatness… We wanted to break the record. You go back over those ten losses. I think we could have easily won eight of those.”

Further, Smith put into perspective the losses that Chicago suffered. “The Bulls lost three games by a point, two with missing shots at the buzzer, and one with yet another questionable Hue Hollins call providing the winning free throws. Four other losses were by 6 points or fewer with just one blowout loss… And, by 10 to the Suns in the game after the Denver comeback loss.”

Put in that perspective, a famous quote from the Charlotte Hornets‘ former owner does ring true. “I never lost a game, I just ran out of time,” an embarrassed Jordan said. For Jerry, the ’96 season had to feel like a masterstroke. It was, after all, his genius that had lured Mike back to the sport of basketball.

Michael Jordan meets Phil Jackson, and the rest is history

They say a coach can define a player’s legacy. Prior to Phil Jackson’s arrival, MJ was labeled as “a horrible teammate”. But, Jackson soon changed the entire mentality and outlook of the franchise.

Read More: Tyrannised Over Tragic Loss and Addiction, Michael Jordan?s 1994 Shocker Led to Big Personal Win for NBA Veteran

Soon enough, the Bulls were en route to a dynastic run. When the run was at its most fragile, Jordan’s first retirement, it was again a meeting with Phil that kept the fire in MJ alive. As Jackson himself said, his respect for Michael’s decision was a powerful motivator in the NBA legend’s eventual return.

For someone constantly under scrutiny and without a parental figure, finding trust and friendship in his coach was paramount. So, once again, Jackson was there to save Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ legacy.

Yet, the entire meeting was orchestrated by the $3 billion team owner lying in his chair. Perhaps Jerry Reinsdorf is a genius after all.

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