Fighting off the flu – Michael Jordan somehow scores 38 points in Game 5 of the NBA finals

When athletes overcome an illness or a personal tragedy to make an impact on the game, it is a special moment.  And in the 1997 NBA finals in Utah, the sports world witnessed one of those truly memorable moments.  And the fact that it came from Michael Jordan made the moment legendary.

It was on this day, June 11th, 1997, that Michael Jordan scored 38 points to help the Chicago Bulls defeat the Utah Jazz in game 5 of the NBA finals.  Jordan was so sick that he could hardly sit up during timeouts, yet he somehow managed to lead the Bulls to victory.

Jordan has had some amazing statistical performances in his career.  But what he did that night in Utah was truly inspiring.  Jordan played 44 minutes, and led the Bulls to a much needed game 5 victory with the series tied at 2 games a piece.  In addition to the 38 points, Jordan had 7 rebounds and 5 assists. The Bulls held the Jazz to 16 fourth quarter points in route to their 90 – 88 comeback victory.