To My Beloved Chicago Bulls Family,
As I sit to pen this letter, my heart swells with gratitude, pride, and an unshakable bond that transcends time. I reflect not just on the championships, the accolades, or the moments of glory we shared on the hardwood but on the relationships, the challenges, and the unyielding loyalty that have made this journey legendary.
When I first stepped onto the Chicago Stadium floor in 1984, I could never have imagined the odyssey that awaited us. I arrived as a young man with a dream to compete at the highest level, but it was your unwavering belief and love that helped me transform that dream into a legacy. Together, we redefined the sport, electrified the game, and created a dynasty that will forever stand as a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, sacrifice, and unity.
To the Bulls organization, thank you for taking a chance on me, for building a team of warriors, and for pushing me to become the best version of myself. We were more than just players and coaches; we were a family. Phil, Scottie, Dennis, Horace, and all my brothers on the court – we shared a bond forged in battle, strengthened by adversity, and crowned in triumph. You made me better every single day.
To the fans, you were the wind beneath our wings. Your cheers reverberated through the walls of the United Center and echoed in our hearts. You inspired me to leap higher, dig deeper, and never settle for anything less than greatness. I played every game for you, the millions who packed the stands, huddled around TVs, and carried our banner proudly across the world. You are the essence of “Chicago Strong.”
To the city of Chicago, you were more than a home; you were a sanctuary. You embraced me as one of your own, standing by me during the peaks of triumph and the valleys of loss. Your resilience mirrored my own, and together, we built an unshakable bond – a connection rooted in the grit, determination, and soul of this incredible city.
Basketball has always been more than a game to me. It was a stage where I could express my passion, a battlefield where I could test my limits, and a platform to inspire. But my time in Chicago wasn’t just about the banners and rings; it was about the lessons learned. It taught me the value of perseverance, teamwork, and humility. It showed me that true greatness isn’t just measured by personal achievements but by the legacy you leave behind.
As I reflect on the six championships, the unforgettable moments, and the countless memories, I’m filled with pride, not just for what we accomplished on the court but for the way we did it – with heart, with determination, and with each other.
Though my playing days are behind me, my connection to the Bulls, to the fans, and to this city remains eternal. You have given me more than I could ever repay, and for that, I am forever humbled.
This letter is not just a look back but a call to the future. To every player donning the Bulls jersey today and in years to come: understand that you represent something greater than yourself. You carry the hopes of a city, the dreams of millions, and the weight of a legacy built on passion and perseverance. Wear it with pride, play with heart, and always honor the legacy of the red, black, and white.
To the fans: Never stop believing, never stop cheering, and never forget that you are the heart of this franchise.
Thank you, Chicago. Thank you, Bulls Nation. Thank you for giving me the privilege of representing you, for believing in me, and for standing by me every step of the way. The memories we’ve made are eternal, and the love we share is unbreakable.
Forever a Bull,
Michael Jeffrey Jordan