Top 30 Moments in Chicago Bulls History

3. “The Chicago Bulls, pick … Michael Jordan of the University of North Carolina”

The draft pick that changed the Chicago Bulls forever.

In the seven years before Michael Jordan was drafted third overall by the Bulls, the franchise only made the postseason one time. The most games they won in a season? 45 during the 1980-81 season. Attendance was low and the franchise needed something to change things.

Houston had the top selection of the 1984 NBA Draft and took Hakeem Olajuwon. That one panned out quite nicely for the Rockets.

Portland had the No. 2 pick and took Kentucky’s Sam Bowie.

(Sam Bowie played in just 511 NBA games in 11 years.)

Meanwhile, the Bulls had their eyes on the ACC and National Player of the Year from North Carolina. That player’s name was Michael Jordan. It was a different era. The big man was as valuable as any player on the floor. But, the Bulls needed excitement. They needed something fresh. They needed a main attraction.

Did they get it? Yes … and then some.

Bowie played in 511 games, while Jordan won six NBA titles.

Advantage: Bulls.

(Not to be forgotten here: No. 5 pick Scottie Pippen’s draft-day trade with Seattle for Chicago’s No. 8 pick Olden Polynice during the 1987 NBA Draft. That one worked out good for the Bulls too.)

Next: 2. Jordan beats Cleveland ... twice, 1989/1993