"His energy was going that way"- When Michael Jordan rubbished claims that he pushed Bryon Russell when he hit 'The Last Shot'
Arguably the most significant play in Michael Jordan's NBA career, popularly known as "The Last Shot," came 25 years ago today against Bryon Russell and the Utah Jazz. The shot sealed Jordan's sixth and final championship win with the Chicago Bulls.
However, some put an asterisk on that play, claiming Jordan pushed off Russell.
During the final episode of the 10-part docuseries about MJ's run with the Bulls, which came out in 2020, the legendary basketball player rubbished claims that he escaped an offensive foul.
Here's what Jordan said:
"Everybody says I pushed off. Bulls**t. His energy was going that way. I didn't have to push him that way."
Michael Jordan on THE LAST SHOT"Everybody says I pushed off. Bulls**t. His energy was going that way. I didn't have to push him that way."
🐐 Michael Jordan on THE LAST SHOT https://t.co/xLgAXm3bap
Jordan had his left hand on Russell's hip, but the latter also seemed to anticipate that Jordan was attacking the rim. Instead, MJ put on the brakes and settled for a long jumper from inside the arc after creating the separation from Russell.
The little nudge from MJ may have done Russell, whose momentum was indeed going in the direction suggested by the Bulls legend. The shot counted, resulting in a fitting end to Jordan's prime.
Michael Jordan recorded his second three-peat with the Bulls and bagged his sixth and final title with that shot, which gave Chicago the go-ahead bucket, helping them secure an 87-86 win.
He tallied 45 points, putting the Bulls on his back one last time and leading them to a title.
25 years later, Michael Jordan's shot remains one of the greatest farewell moments
Michael Jordan was near unstoppable when he put on a Chicago Bulls jersey. When the franchise surrounded him with the necessary talent to contend, there was no looking back for the former NBA MVP.
Jordan won six titles in two separate three-peats (1991-93, 1996-98). Jordan even retired for a season and a half before the second three-peat. His career was highlighted by records and plays that were etched in history forever. Some of his plays are still celebrated as they are arguably still unparalleled.
His killer instinct made those plays special. Jordan ending his Bulls' tenure on his terms was fitting. To exit with a game-winning shot that sealed a second three-peat was special and an occurrence we're unlikely to see again.