Michael Jordan’s return to the NBA was a bit up-and-down to start, with a string of bad shooting games mixed in with a game-winner a week after returning. Mike’s unofficial comeback game occurred 10-days after the fax stating “I’m back.” Of course, this happened against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Number 45 actually got a nice ovation from the likes of Spike Lee and Bill Murray in attendance. Mike was sinking mid-range shots from ever spot, including on post-ups that led to 20 first quarter points. MJ was lighting up the Knicks so much, that Patrick Ewing put him on his back on a hard foul. This didn’t stop Mike from accumulating 35 first half points, already his most of his comeback. The game was close even with the scoring barrage. Mike’s 55th point came off of hard defense from John Starks, sinking a shot a jumper over him and Ewing despite elbows on his drive. On the Bulls next possession, MJ was once again double teamed by Ewing and Starks. He surprisingly threw a dime to Bill Wennington for the game-winning slam. Mike’s double nickel game was the highest for any player in the 1994-95 season, putting the NBA on notice. He’s back.
The sneakers that Mike laced up for this game was the Air Jordan 10. This was designed to celebrate Michael’s career, with lateral stripes on the outsole memorializing each of his biggest achievements to that point of his career. As for the technology in the shoe, two advancements were made in the cushioning of the AJ10. This was the first Jordan shoe to introduce the light Phylon, a foam still used in sneakers today. Phylon also surrounded the upgraded full-length Air bag that provided more impact protection.
The white, black, and red “Chicago” colorway that MJ wore for this game can be found HERE.
You can find other colors of the Air Jordan 10 at StockX, GOAT, Flight Club, and Stadium Goods.
Cover image via The Chicago Tribune