Having Won 14 Games in a Month, 32 Y/O Michael Jordan Revolted Against Phil Jackson’s Command

The 1995-96 Bulls were arguably the greatest squad in NBA history. They were absolutely invincible that season with next to no weaknesses. Dennis Rodman’s addition to a squad led by Michael Jordan solved a long-standing defensive error. Scottie Pippen was no more alone in the paint against opponents. It was almost as if all the pieces came together and the puzzle was solved.

However, even with the best squads, winning an NBA game isn’t easy. It demands a lot. In January of 1996, the Bulls won 14 straight games. The long stretch of victories though an achievement must have weighed heavily on the primary players, especially Scottie, Jordan, and Rodman.

Phil Jackson, concerned for his stars, wanted them to rest. However, Michael had no intentions of listening to his head coach.

Also read: Phil Jackson, Who Worried Dennis Rodman Might Die, Begged Hulk Hogan to Retrieve ‘Eccentric’ Superstar During ‘98 NBA Finals

Michael Jordan revolted against Phil Jackson

In his book, Roland Lazenby detailed the time Bulls were on a 14-game winning streak in January. As February arrived, Phil Jackson seriously considered throwing a few games to rest his players. He was concerned they were running on fumes without any breaks in between.

However, his best player, Michael Jordan disagreed with the Zen Master. He wasn’t ready to let his rhythm be broken or to just throw away a game.

In his book, Roland Lazenby wrote of the incident:

” When they rolled through January at 14–0, Jackson began talking openly of resting players just to lose a few games and slow things down. He seemed worried that his team would get so drunk with winning during the regular season that their energy might be spent by the playoffs. “You can actually take them out of their rhythm by resting guys in a different rotation off the bench,” he explained. “I have considered that.” Jordan wanted no part of it. His focus was unbreakable.”

The Bulls won 72 games in ’95-’96

The 95-96 Bulls regular season record of 72-10 was historically the best in history until the Warriors broke it in 2015-16. That season, Michael was on a clear mission. He had to prove he could still win after returning from his failed attempt at baseball.

MJ averaged 30.4 points with 49.5% field goal efficiency. Even his ranged shooting was lethal as he managed to score 42.7% of his attempts. His decision to refuse Jackson’s instructions was clearly the right choice.

Also read: Despite $27 Million From The NBA, Dennis Rodman Refused To Pay $2,000 To His Busboy At His Failed Restaurant