Michael Jordan cemented his legacy as an NBA legend with the Chicago Bulls, dominating in one of the league’s most physical eras under head coach Phil Jackson. He led the league in scoring a staggering 10 times and captured six NBA championships. His relentless drive and unmatched skill earned him five MVP awards. However, Michael once singled out one of them for a surprising reason.
“This caps off a very maturing season for me and certainly a very educating one. This was by far one of the most trying seasons for me mentally… I’ve had a lot more problems to deal with away from basketball than in past years.They weren’t major problems… my life wasn’t threatened… but it was something different to deal with. I guess that’s why this award is more important and different than the other two years,” Jordan said in 1992, as per the Chicago Tribune.
During the 1991-92 NBA season, Michael Jordan played 80 games for the Chicago Bulls. He averaged 30.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists. His all-around performance earned him his third MVP award. This came in the midst of a controversial season where he made headlines off the court as well. One of the notable incidents was when Jordan refused to attend the White House to celebrate the 1992 championship.
When the media questioned him about his absence, he responded sharply.“It’s none of your business,” Jordan said, according to the Chicago Tribune. Later, during media day, Michael provided more context for his actions. He explained that his flight was delayed and that he was not in a good mood. Then, the Bulls’ icon clarified why he chose not to attend the White House visit.
“When the team came to us about going to the White House, I already had plans set and I didn’t feel it was fair to change plans at that particular time…It wasn’t my intention to disrespect anyone, but I’ve seen George Bush before. I don’t think he was different from the last time I met him,” explained Jordan, as reported by The Chicago Tribune.
Phil Jackson praised Michael Jordan’s development in MVP season, as Bulls head coach in 1992
Although Michael Jordan did not match the statistics of his 1986-87 and 1987-88 seasons, he still averaged 30.1 points per game. He became a more well-rounded player, evolving beyond just a scorer. This growth came despite criticism from fans, who argued his performance had dropped compared to previous years. However, his head coach, Phil Jackson, recognized Jordan’s evolution as a player.
“More than ever this year, he deserves it because of what he’s been able to do, take some points off his scoring and figure out how to help this team in different ways, some not even statistical, and become a better player overall than ever before. And still carry us when we have to have him. It’s the most auspicious award that you can receive in this league, and to win it back to back has to be tremendously sweet for him,” Jackson said, via Sun Sentinel in 1992.