Michael Jordan Leads Bulls to Sixth NBA Title in Final Game with Team

Jordan's iconic game-winning shot in Game 6 against the Jazz caps off the Bulls' dynasty

Mar. 17, 2026 at 11:20am

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In the 1998 season, the Chicago Bulls knew it would be their last dance with the team's dynasty on the verge of being broken up. With Scottie Pippen hobbled by injury, the 35-year-old Michael Jordan took over in Game 6 of the NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz, scoring 45 points including the game-winning jumper in the final seconds to secure the Bulls' sixth championship.

Why it matters

Jordan's heroics in the final game of the Bulls' dynasty cemented his legacy as the greatest player of all time, capping off one of the most dominant runs in NBA history. The game remains the most watched NBA contest ever, with 36 million viewers tuning in to witness Jordan's final moments with the franchise.

The details

Down by three points with under a minute remaining, Jordan drove to the hoop to cut the Jazz lead to one. He then stole the ball from Karl Malone on the other end, setting up his iconic game-winning shot. With five seconds left, Jordan crossed over Byron Russell, gave him a slight shove, and rose up for his patented fadeaway jumper that found nothing but net, giving the Bulls the championship.

  • The 1998 season was the Bulls' last together as a dynasty.
  • Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals took place on June 14, 1998.

The players

Michael Jordan

The 35-year-old superstar and leader of the Chicago Bulls dynasty, who scored 45 points in the decisive Game 6 to win his sixth NBA title.

Scottie Pippen

The Bulls' second star, who was hobbled by a back injury and likely would have missed a potential Game 7.

Karl Malone

The Jazz's star power forward, who was unable to stop Jordan's game-winning shot in the final seconds.

Byron Russell

The Jazz defender who was crossed over and shoved aside by Jordan for the game-winning jumper.

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What’s next

The 1998 NBA Finals was the final chapter of the Chicago Bulls dynasty, as the team was broken up following the season. Michael Jordan would retire from the NBA, only to return several years later to play for the Washington Wizards.

The takeaway

Michael Jordan's heroics in the final game of the Bulls' dynasty cemented his legacy as the greatest player of all time, capping off one of the most dominant runs in NBA history. The game remains the most watched NBA contest ever, with 36 million viewers tuning in to witness Jordan's final moments with the franchise.