Basketball

“97 points in Two Games At Age 41”: Michael Jordan Chose a Special Way to Prove Doug Collins He ‘Could Still Play’

Nithin Joseph
|PublishedDec 28, 2022

“97 points in Two Games At Age 41”: Michael Jordan Chose a Special Way to Prove Doug Collins He ‘Could Still Play’

Mar 28, 2003; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Washington Wizards guard Michael Jordan (23) drives to the basket between Los Angeles Lakers forward Rick Fox (44) and Mark Madsen (35) during the third quarter of the Wizards 108 – 94 loss to the Lakers at Staples Center. Jordan scored 23 points in the game. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Michael Jordan is easily the most iconic figure in basketball history. The man is solely responsible for the global expansion of the NBA and the sport.

His career is a storied one, with six championships, five MVPs, and much much more in 14 seasons. Although, it was quite mediocre towards the end, in his time with the Washington Wizards.

Nevertheless, there were times when he wowed fans in the country’s capital. Like the time he proved to Doug Collins that he could still hoop by dropping 97 points in two games at the ripe-old age of 41.

Also Read: “I’m Feeling Good, I’m Gonna Play”: When Michael Jordan Suited Up Against Shawn Kemp and co. Despite Injuries on Both Feet

Doug Collins was left stunned by 41-year-old Michael Jordan after he dropped 97 points in two games

In 2003, 41-year-old Michael Jordan was at the tail end of his career. He was on the brink of retirement, but still believed he could contribute to his team at the time, the Washington Wizards.

Doug Collins, who was coaching the team recalled in an interview how MJ once approached him on the team bus and asked him if he believed he could still play. Collins who responded with a yes then revealed just how awe-struck he was by His Airness’ performances in the next two games.

“He’s 41 years old. We play the New Jersey Nets the next night, and Michael scores the first three times he has the ball. Byron Scott takes a timeout and Michael comes over and he says, “I want the ball right there for the rest of the game and don’t take me out till I tell you,” and that’s fine by me. So with two minutes to go in the game he gives me the sign that he’s had enough. I take him out of the game and he walks over to the bench and I said, “Michael! What happened tonight?,” and he said, “Well, the guy who was guarding me was telling me his back was hurting. Don’t ever tell me you have a problem, I’ll make you pay for that.” 51 points later. 51 points at age 41. He came back the next game with 46 and he looked at me and said, “I told you, I can still play!”. 97 points. I was absolutely blown away!”

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A story that describes Jordan to a tee. His determination and competitiveness never allowed him to give up. Even toward the end.

Jordan retired for the third and final time in 2003 after scoring 15 points against the 76ers

He had his moments in his final season, but even Michael Jordan reached his limit in 2003. The GOAT retired for the third and final time after scoring a measly 15 points against the Philadelphia 76ers.

An end to the playing career of one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Also Read: “We Knew How to Slow Michael Jordan Down”: 4x NBA Champ Didn’t Have MJ in His Top 5 As Bad Boy Pistons Had His Number

About the author

Nithin Joseph

Nithin is a content writer at The SportsRush. Like his favorite athlete Kobe Bryant, the company has helped Nithin elevate his writing skills to a whole new level, especially as an NBA content writer. With over 1500 articles to his name, Nithin's love for the sport knows no bounds. And, as he continues to watch the sport on a daily basis, he hopes his fascination with the NBA, especially the Miami Heat will inspire more and more readers to give the sport a chance. Perhaps, one day making basketball in India as big as it is in the United States.