Chicago Bulls: Takeaways From The Last Dance Documentary
By Usayd Koshul
6. As much as they envied him, Jordan’s rivals also respected him
From The Bad Boys to the Patrick Ewing led Knicks, the Bulls had their fair share of haters. For Jordan, he was likely the most loved but also most hated athlete in the world during his time. And as much as his rivals wanted to beat him, they also respected him. From Gary Payton and the Seattle Supersonics in the 1996 NBA Finals, the Bulls faced it all.
Through it all, Jordan showcased resiliency and patience, showing that whatever was thrown his way, he was going to figure out a way to get the job done. Keep in mind that the second three-peat wasn’t as easy as some thought. Every time the Bulls seemed like they were ready to finish the SuperSonics or Utah Jazz off, they’d come roaring back and put up a fight.
As Jordan’s career progressed, it wasn’t just about beating the Bulls for his rivals, it was also about figuring out a way to beat Jordan. But here’s the thing: We all know Jordan wouldn’t be beat. And he wouldn’t let anyone beat him either.
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Even for his rivals, they’ll likely always go back and wonder “what if”. “What if” we had beaten Jordan. How different would the 1990’s have looked for the Bulls had some team figured out a way to knock off Jordan? His rivals will never know and nor will the rest of the world.