Full Game: The Bulls Walk Off the Pistons | The End of the “Bad Boys” Era (May 27, 1991)

Full Game: The Bulls Walk Off the Pistons | The End of the “Bad Boys” Era (May 27, 1991)

[Music] As the season began, the Detroit Pistons cherished memories of championships and dreams of a three repeat. But suddenly, the scene of so many celebrations has become hauntingly solemn. down three games to none. They know that no team in NBA history has overcome that deficit to advance in the playoffs. Do the two-time defending champions have what it takes mentally and physically to turn it around? The answer lies deep within their souls. Are the veteran leaders able to reignite the Piston pride that has been synonymous with their teams of the past? Can the greatest postseason performers in recent years rise above these seemingly insurmountable obstacles? Or will frustration smother the spark they need to stay alive? Instead of hanging on to past worries, the Pistons must first focus on today. [Music] Heat. [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Music] This is the NBA on NBC. The 1991 NBA playoffs. Today, game four of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Chicago Bulls and the Detroit Pistons. This the 151st consecutive set out. 21,000 at the Palace of Auburn Hills. and they have come out to root for the home club to extend this series. They are hoping that this is not the Pistons final game of the 1990991 season. Hi everybody, I’m Marv Albert along with Phoenix Suns coach Cotton Fit Simmons pinch hitting for the zar of the teleustrator Mike Patello and Cotton for the Pistons. It has now reached the point of desperation. We asked head coach Chuck Daly, what can they do differently against the Chicago Bull? Well, Chuck says first of all, they will start Mark Magguire instead of Dennis Rodman. What’s your reaction? Well, Marv, the reaction I have to that is he realizes he doesn’t have enough offense in the first quarter to get himself off to a good start. His defense hasn’t been able to hold up for him. So, Rodman will go to the bench because the Bulls have not been guarding Rodman. And the Pistons also say they will lay off the Scotty Pippen jumper more frequently than they have in the past. Well, all he’s really saying there, he’s going to back off the Pippen, make Pippen hit the jump shot outside. They’re going to keep their hand up, but they don’t want him to penetrate their defense. And also, you can look for more subtle changes in philosophy concerning defending Michael Jordan. Well, the entire series they’ve been trapping Michael Jordan and Jordan has been killing the trap. Not in just game three, but all the games. Michael spreads out the Detroit defense to the point where they’re too far away from the Bulls in order to re recover and get back to their man. So, if Jordan’s going to keep doing this, all I expect them to do today is to help on it. And they’re what they’re going to do is let Michael have his day, but try to keep the rest of the scores on the Bulls down today. and the rest of the scorers on the Bulls have really been hurting the Pistons right throughout the series. For more on the Bulls, let’s go over to Amal Rashard. All right, Marvel, I spent considerable time in the Bulls locker room. Very business-like attitude. I talked to Michael Jordan. He said, “Our goal at the beginning of the season was to win the NBA championship, but we had a couple of points we wanted to make on the way. One was to let Detroit know that they’ve got to get through us and that rough aggressive style of play will have no effect on us.” Michael said, “If we are able to beat Detroit today, we will have made that point with an exclamation mark.” And by the way, Marv, Michael was in such a fiery mood. He said he will be all over that court today. All right, Ahmad, when we come back, game four of the best of seven and the season is on the line for the defending NBA champion Detroit Pistons. [Music] [Applause] An 81 degree warm and humid day in the Motor City. A look at the Palace from indoors and they are greeting the introduction of the Detroit Pistons. The Chicago Bulls lining up with John Paxton. Michael Jordan in the back court. Harris Grant, Scotty Pippen up front and at center, Bill Conrite, who has done the job for the Bulls right throughout the series. Then the head coach of the Chicago Bulls, Bill Jackson. For the Detroit Pistons, Isaiah Thomas and Joe Dumars open at the guard position. James Edwards and Mark Maguire are at the fours. Aguire in the starting lineup instead of Dennis Rodman who will come off the bench. And Bill Lane Beer, who has not been able to get into this series, will open at center. And Chuck Daly, winningest coach in Pistons history, telling us there will be quite a bit of shuffling here today. We’ll see more of the three guard alignment that was very successful uh for the spurt of Detroit in game three in particular with Benny Johnson on the floor. The officials Mike Memphis, Joe Crawford, and Bennett Salvatore. And this crowd is certainly in it as Crawford gets set to throw it up. The Detroit Pistons controlling the tip as Thomas works against Paxton. Maguire and the baseline cut off by Grant. Edward just the move that he made just paid off cuz they had the double aguire and it freed up Edwards for the easy shot. And Chuck Deli telling us he wants to get Edwards off early. They have not been able to get him off at all. [Applause] Paxton lost it and Pippen able to recapture. Opening minute two nothing for the Detroit Pistons. And apparently the officials Joe Crawford and Mike Matthysse in a discussion regarding the shot clock just as the Bulls were moving back down court and they are looking to reset it. Well, it’s interesting that they went to Aguire first, but it really paid off for James Edwards because when Cartwright went down to double Auire, Edwards stepped right at the free throw line and buried it. And Edwards played only nine minutes in game three, taking just two shots. Step from long range. Well, we said they may lay off on that outside shot. I’m not so certain. He has been he’s been hitting it throughout the season. Aguire off the stand and the Pistons lead 4-2. Now Pinterest, [Applause] you were kidding John Paxton earlier about the lack of scoring during this series. And as John said, what are you talking about? I’m not getting the shots. Mark hitting on his second Pistons lead 6-4. Chuck Daly is a genius right now because he started him and that guy’s accounted for all three buckets. He’s made two, made the assist on the other. Mark Magguire’s done a nice job coming off the bench in the three previous contest. Here is Jordan with his first attempt. Isaiah with the pull and again Paxton this time gave it up. Pipper’s pass picked off by Dumar. In this entire series, the Pistons have led for a total of 3 minutes 31 seconds. They were ahead for all of 16 seconds in the game on Saturday afternoon out of a possible 144 minutes. Here’s Pippen tying the game at six. a transition basket. And I’m sure Chuck Daly does not want the Bulls to get into a transition game on them because they can run and score. Thomas with the penetration. Isaiah Thomas provided the spark on Saturday to help the Pistons get back into it after the the slow start. He had 13 of his points in the third quarter for the most part from the foul line, but he played well, although we know he is hurting. A nice move by Pippen and he’s tied the game at eight again. Chuck Daly worried about it yesterday. The fact that Aguire would have to guard Pippen and that really bothered me. Pippen has opened up three for three from the field. Aguire got the step but lost it. And here comes Jordan. Michael Jordan throwing glass and the Bulls take a 108 lead. On Saturday afternoon, Chicago opened up with a 248 first Dumar. Yes, Joe Dumar has been very quiet over the first three games. The Pistons have really opened up aggressively on offense, which they haven’t done in the past, and I think that’s the way Chuck wants them to play. Here’s Cartwright. And Bill Cartright gives the Bulls a 12 10 lead while the Detroit centers Lane Beer and Edwards have been silent. The combination of Cart and Purdue have done so well, but James Edwards has opened up by hitting his first two this afternoon. The game is tied at 12. Jan defense from the crowd and the whistle underneath Joe Crawford with the call away from the ball. It’s a hold on Lambbeir. We were [Applause] You could see the play away. Lambbeir is going to put their bodies on them hard. And I think the officials are saying the same thing they did in game three. We’re not going to have it. And not both clubs have come out shooting well. Chicago six of seven, Detroit six of eight. Thomas Lane beer. Beautiful pass to the cutter. Lane beer and the Pistons lead it 1412. Pippen and he was hacked by Aguire. So Scotty Pippen will go to the free throw line. The Pistons are really pushing the ball down the court and you see something we very selom see. Bill Lambir coming down on a hesitation fast break and lays it in beautifully. The Bulls were just asleep on the play. But again at the other end we got a real problem. Meguire is having trouble with Pippen here early in the first quarter and staying with him. And that is the downside in that matchup. You know, Mark Aguire is in there to prevent, as you mentioned earlier, Chicago getting off to that that early lead. Detroit needing the the scoring punch, but at the other end, he’s going to have problems. In order to get something, you have to give something. And that’s what’s happening here early. But I know that Dennis Rodman can come in and do the job. Right now, Chuck’s more interested in having a good first quarter offensively. Game is tied at 14. Dumar. 5 minutes gone by and Pipple again for the jump. Well, they try to double up on Thomas and the blocking foul called on Pippen. That is his first. Timeout has been taken with 654 remaining in this first quarter and the crowd responding to the early play of the Pistons. Knock off the Pistons today. Michael Jordan claims that the whole league will rejoice over the demise of the the so-called bad boys. Strong words for Michael saying people want to push this kind of basketball out. Talking to the rough house style. I don’t feel we’re overconfident, but says we want to kill this this ball club. He not only wants to win the game, he wants to put the Piston style of basketball in the background and let’s go with a more open, fluid game and not so much physical attacking as the Pistons have done the past two years. What What’s your feeling about their style of play? Well, it’s fine for them. I don’t think it’s fine for the league. I never have. I thought it needs to be open. Let’s give the Pistons credit. They deserve the championships. All right, here’s Edwards Lane Beer and in the early going we are seeing a difference with the play of Laneir and Edwards very much into it and the Pistons have taken a 1614 lead. [Applause] Jordan illegal defense call. I’ll check that. A foul on Dumar. Joe Dumar’s call for the for the Pion. And you’re going to see here trying to get to Michael Jordan. They hacked him on the arm. He was ready to pass it off. He wasn’t going to shoot it. Long range pop by Jordan who has hit two out of three. He has four and the game is tied at at 16. Over the years, Cotton has has Detroit’s style of play bothered you bothered everybody cuz they’ve been winning. Nobody wants to be beaten up physically and they don’t want to lose the ball game. Not only are they’re a physical team, they’re a good team. They do a fine job of winning. And as Meguire looked to make the move to his left, a push call on Grant. Now they change the call. It’s caught right. No. Codright is hit with his first. They’re really battling hard. The two big guys in there. And that’s of course what Edwards is going to have to do to get open. Foul on Paxton who did not like the call. Well, nobody likes to run into Lambir, period. First of all, not many people like the guy. He’s an outstanding player, but you don’t want to run into him. He’s a big guy. And Dumar able to finally blew the layup. Jordan went down trying to draw the foul. The officials did not go for it. And here’s Michael dumping it off, but it was broken up. play by the Pistons. Cotton, I get the the feeling that Lambbeir over the years has motivated himself by his anger. I don’t think he’d be the same player if he did not present that attitude. Well, without a doubt, Lambir. Every coach in the league would love Lambir. He is a coach’s dream. He’ll do whatever it takes to win. And we’re seeing the officials now really take charge of this bumping. Second foul called. This is the toughest one of the day. [Music] And Carright finds himself in serious foul trouble now and has to sit down early and he lets Mike Matthysse know it. He doesn’t like it. But again, that’s Lambir’s psyche. Lambir will psych everybody out until they do foul him. Cartright sitting down. Will Purdue has come on for the first time. He’s matched with James Edwards and here he he’s got the touch here in the first quarter. He has six points. He had not been hitting the outside shot and that had really hurt the Pistons in this series. Detroit leads by two, just under five minutes remaining first quarter. [Applause] ran and Edwards on the box out Thomas put the move on Jordan and he threw the foul. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen the Pistons more aggressive on offense than they are today. I mean, they’re really taking the ball to the basket. The only guy I’ve seen tentative on the floor taking a shot has been Joe Dumar. I thought he had a shot earlier and turned it down. The rest of them are taking their shots. I think Joe is thinking about his rhythm because he has not had a good series as he has struggled with the outside shot and timeout called by the ball. 437 remaining in this first quarter. It’s the Pistons by three. Hello everybody and welcome back to the Palace here at Auburn Hills. I’m Rashad. Now, during that last time out, unlike game three, where there was a lot of wild emotion, the pitches were very calm and collected, and Isaiah Thomas told me, “If we can get this team into a half court basketball game, we have a chance to win, which they’ve got him in that half court basketball game.” Mark and Isaiah Thomas on the line, ready to shoot his second free throw. The Pistons lead it 1916 with 437 remaining in this first quarter. So, a four-point Detroit lead and pressure by the Pistons. Isaiah Neely picked it off. The Pistons are alert today. [Music] Tipping off the pick from Purdue and Purdue was hit on the arm by Auire. That is the second personal for Mark Auire. Prior to the game here on Saturday, the Pistons had won 13 of 15 against Chicago here at the Palace. Bulls winning the first two in Chicago and then the 113 107 win on Saturday. Jordan and Lier with a quick outlet try to catch the Bulls but they got back two bars try to shoot his way back into it. He’s too good a player not to take those shots. He has to keep taking the shot. Shot clock at eight. Pippen. Oh, beautiful home by Scotty Pippen. Off to the fast start. He has 10 points and the Pistons now lead at 20 18. Pass over thrown in centered for Edwards. It will be Chicago Ball. Never in NBA playoff history has a team come back from a 300 deficit does what the Pistons are facing here this afternoon. Grant getting inside. Grant on the rebound and he’s tied the game at 20. The quickness of Grant, the quickness of Pippen is still showing up in this series where they just get their hand on the ball. They play a little volleyball and then they get the rebound and lay it in. Harris Grant comes off a solid performance. 17 points, eight rebounds on Saturday. Thomas giving Detroit a two-point lead with just under three minutes to go in this first quarter. And Jordan in the back court, Pippen, Brent, and Purdue up front. Nice play at Oh, and Lampir taking a shot at Paxton who did not like it. John Paxton went back at Bill Lambir. He did not like the shot given by Lambir. Certainly unnecessary. Well, Paxton also was the player that was running into Lambir earlier and he just took a he just did not like it at all. Paxton is really upset and now Joe Crawford has put the tea and I believe he’s put the tea on John Paxton. You know, Joe Crawford’s one of the top officials in this league, and it’s important that he keeps his cool because sometimes he loses his cool when he gets upset with the players, and he is an outstanding official. You sound like you’ve had some personal experience in that area. I’ve had personal experiences with all of them. Well, apparently he has now called a double technical on Lambir and Paxton. The personal foul was charged to Isaiah Thomas. The leading hit was given by he got Paxton for the tea on the retaliation and Paxton is on the line off the foul. Paxton has him beat and Lambbeir really hit him and hit him hard. So, uh, they made it tough for him to make the bucket, but Pax handled it. So, the game is tied at 22. [Applause] [Music] Two and a half remaining in this first quarter. Edwards with the open jump and Mike Matthysse indicating a loose ball foul against the ball. Loose ball. [Applause] It’s called on Brent. Chicago over the limit. Well, you could see a lot of wrestling going on down under and Grant pushing Auire out of there gives Mark an opportunity to cash in at the free throw line, which he does on the first one. I tell you, both teams are very active this first quarter. And you can tell this is a desperation game for the Pistons because they haven’t played this way in any of the other first quarters that we’ve had in the series. I would think from the Chicago point of view, we touched on this yesterday during showtime, but Phil Jackson’s major concern has to be that his club might be too loose, overconfident. No signs of that here in the first quarter. Not at all. They came out, felt comfortable in their shots. They feel confident. The first quarter has been Pippen trying to exploit and Michael Jordan has the lead back here. the first quarter in and with Jordan lowkey as he has successfully throughout the course of the playoffs. Although he’s been getting his points, he has been able to get the rest of his teammates into it. Foul on Edwards. The push on James Edwards gets the ball back to Chicago. Another offensive foul. The big guys trying to get their position down low. It It’s been a struggle for James Edwards in this series. As you can see, he backs in. I’m not certain about that, Cole. I’d have a hard time with that one myself. Crowd reacting to the replay up above. And now Joe Crawford has called a technical foul on Detroit assistant Brendan S. [Music] [Applause] There is he was hit with a T. Well, you don’t want your assistant coaches to get T’s. You don’t want the head coach to get a T. And again, I think Joe Crawford is really pumped up in this game himself. And apparently he’s also hit Chuck Dy. So, double tentacle on the Detroit Pistons on Brendon Serge and Chuck Dy. And now Chuck will have to tread water very lightly because he wants to stay around for the end of this game. By virtue of the technicals, it’s a 2624 lead for the Chicago Bulls. The shot clock with 16 seconds, a minute 50 to go in this first quarter. It has been a heated quarter. Technicals called on Laneir Paxton, Chuck Dy, and Brendan Ser. Paxton wide open. Yes. And John Paxton has hit on three out of three with four for four from the line. He has 10 points. The Bulls lead by four. Illegal defense called for the first time. It’s It’s on Chicago and Detroit will get the new 24. Well, that’s the first illegal defense and uh you know it makes it tough for for the Bulls, but they’re going to stay after him all the way. You can see what has occurred over the first three games during the course of the first quarter where the Chicago Bulls have gotten off with first. This four-point edge represents their biggest lead. So, not the case here today. Again, Paxton open. [Music] 3024 Chicago and Paxton burning it up with 12. Here’s the trap. Kumar is in trouble. The Pistons have not been able to solve the trap. Timeout has been taken. He was 2 seconds away from a backcourt 10-second violation. And he took a 20 second time very wisely by Dumar, but there’s no assurance that they’re going to be able to throw the ball into the front court. I know that the Bulls are going to be after him and after him tough. They did a great job of surprising Dum Mars. He totally backed up on this. He had nobody to throw the ball to a wise timeout for the Pistons and now they’ll have two seconds to try to get the ball into the front court or it will be a 10-second violation. Co Jackson and his staff have used the trap so effectively they will spring it on the opposition and the Pistons have not been able to solve it. They’ve been able to keep the Pistons off balance all series. John Paxton, incidentally, has scored the Bull’s last 10 points. Isaiah Thomas and he was looking for the foul as he hit the deck. [Music] And the Bulls get the new 24. Here’s Grant. Oh, beautiful move. able to hang and extend off the block attempt by Lane Beer. And the Bulls with an eight-point lead off a 164 run. Thomas, he’s been way off. But back his fourth field goal. He has eight. The Bulls 32 and the Pistons 26 down to 20 seconds to go in this opening quarter. And the Bulls will hold for a final shot. Lambbeir has been really tough on the offensive board. That’s three of them he’s put back in. [Music] Purdue battling his way. Final seconds. Grant tried to save it, but he stepped down. Detroit ball with two seconds to go in this first quarter. The Bulls lead it by six. And here it picked off by Pippen. Able to get it on. A good run by the Chicago Bulls in the latter stage of the first quarter. And after one, they are in front by the score of 326. Excellent start for John Paxton who had come into this game averaging just under five points per game against the Pistons. But not the case here today. No, he opened up with a good first quarter only because they decided to double team Michael Jordan. We’re going to see Lambir come over and double team him and it’s really going to open it up for John Paxton on the weak side. Jordan spread the defense. balls over to Paxton. That happens to be his shot. He loves that shot and anytime he can get that shot, he’ll bury it. And he’s at four out of five for his 12 points at all. Pippen with 10 substitutions for Detroit. John Sally, Dennis Rodman have come on. Clinton Livingston on the floor for the first time. Benny Johnson also in the lineup. The Bulls lead by six as we get started in the second quarter. Jordan from deep. Michael Jordan has connected on three out of five. That from downtown he has seven and the Bulls now lead 3526. Detroit with Isaiah Thomas and Vinnie Johnson in the back court. Foul called on the Bulls. James Edwards up front with John Sally and Dennis Rodman. John Sally coming off a strong game on Saturday. Will Purdue was called for that foul. Sally set the pick. Anthony Johnson had the hot hand in game three. Isaiah from deep. Yes, Isaiah Thomas with eight points. And the Bulls now lead by seven. [Applause] [Music] Edwards jumping out to help Purdue wide open and he was fouled. So Will Purdue taking advantage of the mismatch was hit by Sally. That’s what happens to you when you try to concentrate too much on Michael Jordan. It is going to leave a lesser score open. And in this quarter, first quarter, they didn’t concentrate on Jordan that much. This quarter now, they’re starting to concentrate on Jordan. And that will open it up for Purdue. That will open it up for Paxton. It’ll open up for Grant and even Cliff Livingston, guys who normally don’t score a lot. What was your philosophy of trying to defend Michael Jordan when you go up against him? Let Michael Jordan get his. try to stop the rest of them. And I know for a fact Michael got as he scored 52 one night in the stadium, but the Phoenix Suns won the game. How’d you make out against the Bulls this year? We split. We split games with them. Foul called on Purdue. That is his second. Cartwright took a seat early after picking up two. And now Bill is coming back. And Purdue will sit down. This an shooting affair and Sally will put it in. at side court. [Applause] Thomas had it deflected. Livingston on the rebound. Here’s Jordan by the double team. And Jordan fouled by Thomas. No, they say Sally. combination of Sally and and Thomas and it was John Sally called for the first. Very aggressive drive by Jordan, but also a very aggressive drive defensively and I don’t know why they would complain on that call. They two guys grabbed him on the arm and Michael deserves to go to line on this one. A lot of times I don’t agree with official with Michael Jordan. They put him there too many times. That particular play let him go to line. He earned it. and Jordan 85% free throw shooter. Minute and a half gone by in the second quarter and the Bulls now lead by nine. Very tough drive. You see Sally grab him and then Isaiah comes over from the side and really grabs him on the arm. But when you’re back to the wall, you’ll ask for everything and that’s what the Pistons are asking today. The Bulls took the Pistons best shot in that first quarter and still turn them back. The Bulls look like a tough team and they lead now by 10. This is their biggest lead. Johnson came off the pick from Georgia right with him. Edwards hit the deck away from the ball. Here’s Sh and back come the ball action crowd looking to the Pistons on. They got off to the good start but they fallen back and he strip two bars off the rather Thomas off the steel. Oh, what a play by Isaiah. Able to recapture and then able to hit. So, the Bulls lead at 3830. [Applause] Shot clock down to seven. Jordan Edwards mistiming as the rebound went high off the glass. The quickness of the balls to the basketball. That’s been the story of the series. Livingston. Oh, he hits the jump hook. And I have a feeling that shot has Chuck Daly wondering perhaps this is not our season. What can we do to stop him? When Cliff Livingston posts up low and turns and jump hooks on you, it means it could be a tough day for you. But I’m going to tell you the Bulls are playing sensational. and the Pistons will not give it up easy. And Livingston has played well in this series, been getting the uh the opportunity after a very quiet regular season. Pistons down by 10 with eight and a half remaining in the first half. Edwards with the fadeaway. James Edwards with his third bucket. He has six. The Bulls 40 and the Pistons 32. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Cartright feeling around for Edwards. Grant Arus Grant has seen the outside touch return the last couple of games. He now has six and the Bulls again by 10. That was a very good move by Cartright. I was afraid he’d try to force a shot because Edwards hit one on him. instead he passed it off and they got an easy shot. Sally and he was blocked. That will put him at the foul line. But first, a timeout called foul was called on Grant. We’ll be back in a moment. Well, Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson has made the point many times that he feels the Detroit Pistons get away with too many physical tactics. The subject that we discussed with Phil. Well, I think Wesley Unsel said it well a couple years ago. He said, “Now that the no fighting rules in effect in the NBA, it takes the bully and makes him even the bigger bully because you can’t protect yourself.” In past times, guys could, you know, initiate a fight. And uh the fight in itself at least created the activity. Now, if you initiate the fight, you’re not only thrown out, but you’re heavily fined and might be suspended. In those days, you had to stand up for your rights and you could uh without getting in trouble uh you know from the league, from the officiating, from whatever else. But now it just makes the teams that can bowl it can be more muscular even be more so because now they can threaten you into a situation. What are you going to do about it? Well, of course, Cotton Phil in his days as a member of the New York Knicks, late 60s and through the 70s, a pretty scrappy player himself. I think that in those days I think he’s talking about exactly what went on. You did protect yourself. But today the commissioner says there will be no fighting and I think I have to agree with Phil because it will make the bully a bigger bully. I think we’ve seen that in pro basketball. Phil said before the series he felt that there is a National Hockey League mentality about the Detroit Pistons. Of course, as we’ve discussed many times, the Pistons look at it in a different manner. Their philosophy is they’re playing hard nose basketball. It’s all their point of view. It’s the Bulls 42 and the Pistons 34. 720 remaining in this first half. Marv Albert got Simmons and Bob Rashad from the Palace. Sally goes to the hook. DJ Armstrong handling. He just checked in. Armstrong and Craig Hodgers now in the back court. Cliff Levington go to a card right and Scotty Pippen up for a beautiful back pass for Pippen and he is Wallop and that will be a flagrant foul and it’s getting very very tough out there. Again, an unnecessary hit taken by the Pistons as Scotty Pippen was racked up. Again, I think that’s what Phil is talking about. That’s what Michael Jordan’s talking about. They just don’t want to see that in our basketball game. He already had the guy beat to the basket. And then there was a real hard foul. A great back door play that the Bulls love to run and they really let the guy have it. And then Rodman did push him. Yeah, I I I think that’s a clearcut cheap shot. No question. Clear cut. That is a cheap shot and it should not be allowed and the officials are doing what they’re supposed to do right now. They are pulling. The only other thing the official could do is make the same call and then could eject Rodman from this game. That could happen. And if it continues to happen, I think that’s what you’re going to see. They’re going to stop it. They’re not going to allow that type of flagrant foul. Foul was called on Lameir and you’ll see the the combination of Pippen goes to the drive. It’s Rodman from behind and Lambbeir from the side. The Chicago Bulls bench started to make a move toward the court led by Phil Jackson. And now Mike Matthysse is telling he is telling both teams, you better straighten this out and clean it up or we’re not going to put up with it. Bulls lead it 4334. Here’s Hodgees on a quick release. Cington with the tip. That was a big time offensive rebound. Cliff showed his great athletic ability on the boards. [Music] Brook Lston, one of the quicker jumpers in the NBA, which also provides difficulty for the Pistons. And it’s Johnson. Rebound. John Sal. That is the advantage of Sally who is very very quick. And look out Pippen and Rodman looking to go at each other. Now in the past, I know the Pistons have felt they could take Pippen out of his game with rough play. He has been smashed a couple of times during the course of this rivalry. And you know the story of the of the fame migraine headache suffered by Scotty Pippen. There’s another look at it. You can see right there, Mark, that he is really getting physical. And I think what has happened is this. I think that the frustration of the Pistons is really coming out. The fact that they can’t get the job done. Timeout has been taken. We’ll be right back. Well, the Detroit Pistons in recent years have been known as the bad boys. Although, in a conversation we had with Chuck Daly earlier this season, he said, “Hey, that’s no longer the case.” When we lost Rick Mahorn, Isaiah Thomas announced in front of President George Bush in the White House that we were no longer the bad boys. And people didn’t believe him. But gradually, that’s pretty much be been the case. I wish we were more physical than we are. Quite frankly, I think we’d be a better basketball team, but we aren’t quite the same team that we were two years ago in that respect. Well, I don’t think the Chicago Bulls would agree with that assessment by by Chuck Daly. The Bad Boys very much back into it here in this first half as they try to get themselves back into this ball game. The Bulls lead at 45- 36 as we come up on 6 minutes remaining in the first half. I tell you, it’s been a tough game for the officials to work thus far, but I think they’ve got it under control, but they’re concerned because of the rough play. Well, their first major decision is Benny Johnson is not able to hit. Scotty Pippen on the rebound. If anything else breaks out, I I think their their decision will be, do I eject someone? And that is always difficult in the playoffs. Here’s Livingston. Joe Dumar has returned. Dumar putting the spin on Armstrong and then throws one out. A good shot. Dumar on the follow. Dumar picked off by Pippen. Crowd wants a back court violation and a timeout is called by the Bull. Pippen taking the 22nd timeout. Down to 519 remaining in this first half and the Bulls lead it by nine. This was after the confrontation and you can see Rodman trying to impede the progress of Pippen and I’m sure the officials are watching him very closely like the NBC cameras are and if they see Rodman do anything they’re going to they’re going to get rid of Rodman cuz he’s already got one T I think today [Applause] [Music] the Bulls going with the back court of Armstrong and Hodgers right Livingston and Pippen up front while Detroit will the front line of Lier Sally and Robin Johnson and Dumars in the back court. Isaiah Thomas and James Edwards getting set to return right squaring up on layer and Joe Crawford blowing the whistle. The basket will not count. Foul before the shot attempt away from the ball on Rodman. [Applause] Well, as we can see here, they’re just rrestling for position and Rodman just will not let him move and he is impeding his progress and I think they’re going to call a foul on Rodman real quick on this play. I think that one was called a little bit tight on Bill Lambir right there. I think the officials are concerned about losing control of the game. A technical foul has just been called and that is on Robin. That was his first technical. Earlier, Laneir was hit as was Paxton, Chuck Daly, and Brendan Sur all hit with TE’s [Applause] and Craig Hodgers hits the T. I think it’s just the frustration, the fact that the Pistons are down 3 0 and they haven’t been able to solve any of the mystery of the Chicago Bulls. The score is 4636 and they are frustrated because they haven’t been able to stop the Bull offense and the Bulls have been able to slow them down even though they started an offensive team today as Pippen hits the first half of the free throw. All right, let’s go over to him on the rivalry between Scotty Pippen and Dennis Rodman. These are two players that certainly do not like each other. Scotty Pippen told me before the game that he thinks Rodman is one of the cheap shot artists in the league. He tries to do some cheap stuff then patchy on the behind and say come on let’s play ball. But it’s all in the guise of the cheap tactics. Marv and Pippen hitting one of two from the line. He has 13 points for just under five minutes remaining in the first half. Lane beer. Yes. And it counts. Bill Lameir will go to the line. He’s fouled by Cartright. A great penetration by Isaiah. Certainly a pass off. I think you got to say that Bill Lambir has stepped up big today. I think everybody was questioning Lambbeir and he’s really into the offensive floor of the game today. He’s already picked up like three offensive rebounds, put him back in. That time when Isaiah penetrated, you didn’t see Lambir out on the wing looking for that three-point shot. He was around that basket. He is really playing well today. Cartright called for his third and he sits down. The rookie from North Carolina, Scott Williams, has checked in. Michael Jordan returning and Lir with a three-point play. So the Bulls now lead 4739. Harve Albert cotton consent of Rashad from the palace of Auburn Hills. Cotton sitting in for the teleustrator Mike Patello. Mike on special assignment auditioning for a color analyst job for American Gladiators. He’s been very busy today. The steel by Thomas and the foul call. It’s against the ball. It’s on Williams. They are in the penalty. Isaiah to the free throw line. I think we’re going to see inexperience on Williams’s part. He loses the ball. Then he reaches out and grabs Isaiah Thomas. The reason Williams is in the game, I think that Phil Jackson is really concerned about his centers and their foul problems and the way this game is going. So, he is really concerned about it. So, Williams is in there right now to protect these other centers from getting into what we call serious foul trouble in this first half. And Scott Williams has passed by Stacy King in the rotation. Clip Lston departs. Harris Grant makes his return. The Bulls by seven in what has been a hard-hitting first half. Sounds like we’re talking about football or hockey. Shot clock at five. Shot clock at two. Pippen just did get it off. And it will be Chicago ball. Last touch by Lambir. It’s interesting that with all the all the rrestling and everything that went on, it really has thrown the Bulls off of their game. I thought they had this game under total control, but now it’s more like a Piston game. And that has been the philosophy in the past. One of the reasons that the Detroit Pistons have been able to eliminate the Chicago Bulls from the playoffs the last three years, the last two in the Houston Conference Final Confrontation. Scott Williams getting inside. A nice setup from Scotty Pippen and the Bulls lead it by the score of 4940. Edwards and Williams battling and Williams called for the foul. Williams signed as a free agent out of North Carolina as a senior with the Tarheels. He averaged 14 points a game. Will Purdue now replacing Scott Williams. Will Purdue picked up two early fouls. Cartright sitting down with three. Edwards to the free throw line for the first time. James Edwards has had an injury hit season. Bothered by lower back problems right throughout. This the first game this series that both Edwards and Lambir have been offensive factors. Seven-point lead for Chicago. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Purdue called for steps. And the Pistons showing some signs of getting back into it. It’s their type of game right now. Although they haven’t been able to score enough to get back on top. That’ll be their problem right now. Isaiah and BJ having a conversation as Thomas was moving it down. Good play by Jordan, but he couldn’t control. Lost it out of bounds. And the Pistons will get it back with eight on the 24. [Applause] like Matthysse counting it off. Magguire just did get it in. Here’s Vinnie Johnson and he’s been off. He’s 0 for three here at the start and he finally hits Vinnie Johnson with his first field goal. The ball’s 49, the Pistons 44. Pippen and Grant got it back for good. Michael Jordan with his fourth field goal. 11 points in all. The Bulls lead by seven. Every time it looks like the Pistons are coming back. The Bulls come up with a second shot. Those continue to double up and the foul on Aguire. That is his third. Mark discussing it with the official Joe Crawford. Timeout taken. We’ll be back in a moment. Pat Riley at the NBA Showtime Studios in New York. Coming up at halftime, Pat’s views of the first 24 minutes. And Bob, why the officials are not allowing the Bulls to play their game. It has nothing to do with the Pistons. Also at halftime, a live interview with Trailblazers coach Rick Adelman, a report from Paris, the scene of the French Open, and of course the shootout. Right now, back to Marvin Cotton. All right, Bob. And with 224 remaining in this first half, the Bulls lead the Pistons by the score of 51- 44. Vinnie Johnson came up big in games 1, two, and three. off to a slow start. One for four thus far today, but uh Vinny a street shooter and at any time can catch fire. He really can. Plus the fact they went to Edwards and Lambbeir early. And again the crowd looking to urge on the home club. Jordan posting up on two and he was hacked. Michael Jordan will go to the foul line. It’s on Dumar. That is his second. Edwards was late getting there. Jordan stepped through the trap and Dumar caught him as he went up. Michael is just too tough to cover down in a low post area for one man. That’s the time they do have to trap Michael and double team him. And when that happens, some other people on the Bulls will be open. Michael Jordan admits that he did not have a good one in game one, although he did get his teammates into it. Game two, the 35point performance, then 33. Mike Matis getting between BJ Armstrong and Isaiah Thomas. And apparently they had some words. Not really. What what the official thought was that Isaiah was moving down close to Jordan to be a distraction on his free throw and he missed the first free throw. I think Michael must have asked the official to move him out. And the Bulls now lead 52- 44 as we come up on two minutes remaining in this first half. So Purdue coming out on Vinnie Johnson. He’s able to penetrate and hit six-point Chicago lead. The Bulls led by as many as 11. Pippet with the open shot. Oh, look how Thomas went down hard. He’s all right. Here’s Isaiah [Applause] Jordan from downtown. Bulls have had a drought period moving to Troy Hall. [Applause] Really took a tough fall, but Isaiah got up. He was lucky he wasn’t hurt on the play. He probably is hurt a little bit, but Isaiah feels he’s the heart and soul of this team. He is holding that right wrist a little bit. Edwards going straight to the hoop. It’s a twoon one. Pippen and the Bulls lead 54 46. Scotty Pippen by man with 14 points. Edwards getting excellent position and then hit by Purdue. has three on Will Purdue and the Pistons taking exception with the the hit by Purdue. Good hard hit knocked him out of position and Edwards used a drop step and really upset Will Purdue. But did you see Michael Jordan walk over and say just cool it will everything will be all right. We’re going to try to get out of here with a win as Edward hit the first of the two. Hodes checking back in and Jordan immediately he will go to Purdue and say cool it. Don’t worry about a thing. Everything will be all right. And I think that’s important. That is really some good leadership on Jordan’s part. John Sally being waved on. And the hand for Bill played well. Leaves with 11. Hit five out of seven. also pulled out five rebounds. 51 seconds remaining in this first half. It is game four of the best of seven Eastern Conference final. The Chicago Bulls gunning for a sweep. The Detroit Pistons hoping to send it back to Chicago for game five on Wednesday. Here is Armstrong. BJ Armstrong, local product out of nearby Birmingham, took the big three-pointer in game three and just able to hit one from deep and then BJ comes up with the loose ball. 25 seconds remaining of the half. It’s the Bulls by eight. Costus, Pat Riley coming up at halftime. Back at our New York studios [Music] playing the shot clock and a three and Brent was fouled with seven and 9/10 seconds to go in the first half. Harris Brandt will go to the line. He was hit by John Sally. So Sally has collected his third. I tell you again, it’s the quickness to the ball. Jordan was he thought he was fouled underneath on that particular play. Shot a rare air ball, but it was the quickness of Horus Grant getting to the ball before a Piston. And again, I say I think that’s been one of the real keys in the series has been the frontline quickness of the Bulls in comparison to the size and strength of the Pistons up front. And you can see what that front line of Chicago has done of this series. Ping Robert and Grant have been out outstanding and outscoring the Piston front line in severe fashion. 5748. Bulls with the lead. Down to the final seconds of the half. Sally for Edwards. He has the shot and hit with one second to go in the half. Seven-point Chicago lead as Scott Williams fires one. So, a heated first half, a first half that saw five technical fouls handed out by the officials. The highpoint man, Scotty Pippen with 14, 12 a piece for Michael Jordan and John Paxton. James Edwards leading Detroit with 12. We’ll be back right after these messages. 5750 at halftime going for the sweep. The Pistons have reversed one trend. We told you about how badly outscored their front line has been. They made a substitution. They have Aguire in for Rodman as a starter. 11 for 17 combined. Lambir, Edwards, and Aguire. That’s 65% from the floor. They’ve outscored the front line of the Bulls in the first half, 31-21. But a more revealing stat, the unofficial Showtime cheap shot scoreboard. If in fact the Pistons are going out today, they’re going out in a blaze of bad boy. We have eight cheap shots for the Pistons to one for Chicago. Cartwright weighed in with the one Bulls cheap shot. We got Rodman with five having an outstanding first half and Lambir with two cheap shots. Wow. Where did those stats come from? We have a crack staff as Marv is uh want to say. It’s not about being physical today. Obviously, Bob, it’s not about intimidation. It’s not about aggressiveness. What it’s about more than anything else is to try to provoke the Bulls to sort of get out of their game. Now, we have a couple of uh pieces of tape here that’s going to show exactly what I’m talking about. This shot right here is nothing more than a hit, a hard foul carrying to the 10th degree right there. This is nothing more than something that will show the officials that they mean business. It’s an obvious call. Down here is more provoking right here. There shouldn’t be any of this kind of contact. Provoke, provoke, provoke. And I think what you have to do is realize that some of the things we can’t see right now, you cannot see the play away from the ball. And every time the Bulls have the ball, five guys foul. And the and the theory is that the officials, okay, the officials can’t call every guy for a foul. So, it takes them right out of their offense. The Bulls got flattened out for a while, but right here, I think you’re you’re seeing the Chicago Bulls of the future. It hasn’t bothered them because they’re still seven points ahead. So, they’re being provoked and they’re hanging tough right in there. All right. Right now, let’s look ahead not to the second half today, but to tomorrow night’s game in Portland. Yesterday, the Lakers overwhelmed the Trailblazers, beating them by 21 to take a three games to1 lead in the Western Conference Finals. Dick Enberg and Steve Snapper Jones are out in Portland for game five, which they’ll call tomorrow night at the Memorial Coliseum. They’re live right now with Blazers coach Rick Adelman. Take it away, Dick. Bob, all is quiet on the Western Front at the moment. The Lakers are going through a shootaround now. The Trailblazers have completed their practice. It wasn’t quiet last night. give you an idea of the support that the Blazers get in this community. Some 500 fans were there to greet Portland back from Los Angeles after those two almost uh humiliating defeats at the forum in Los Angeles. And as you look at the faces on the Trailblazer faces at the end of the game yesterday, well, you have to have a sports psychologist to interpret that. What are they thinking? Well, we’ll get it firsthand from the headman himself, Rick Adelman. You start the season, you win 19 out of 20. You finish the year hot 16 out of 17. But in between in March, you lost eight out of 11. I guess that’s the one relationship we can make to your position right now. What did you tell them then when you were losing to get out of it? Well, I think it was very similar. You know, uh suddenly the wheels don’t just come off in in two short games or back then we were playing some good teams in the road and we weren’t playing as well as we were earlier. But uh I think we have to get back to the basics of what makes us good and and we have been doing that. We’ve been very impatient offensively trying to do it all too quickly and against the Lakers, you’re just playing into their hands. You got to give them credit. They’ve done a very good job defensively, but I just feel that we’re a much better team. We’ve showed and I believe this team always responds and they’re going to respond tomorrow night. All right, Rick. Uh, you know, game two, you had one defensive adjustment. It’s tough even on the announcers here in Portland. They’re really getting tight here up in the Northwest. But you had that one defensive adjustment that Buck Williams did on his own and that seemed to key the aggressiveness of the defense. We haven’t seen it since then. Will you go back to that kind of play game five? Well, I think we have to be aggressive defensively. Actually, Buck did it once yesterday and Perkins made a three. Uh, that’s kind of the way it’s been going for us. So, uh, I think we have to be aggressive. We got to be aggressive at both ends of the court and be very active. And I don’t think we ever gave ourselves a chance defensively. They’re playing so well offensively, but the way we execute on our offensive end, they’re getting open shots and they’re running the ball and now they have a lot of confidence. It’s tough to come back on this team when you get 20 down. Magic’s not going to allow you to do that. And I think we need to come out and be active at both ends and play with a little bit more purpose than we played in the first or the last two games. All right, America wants to know, are there going to be any changes? Are there going to be any changes? Well, when you’re down 3-1, I think you better do something. But again, uh you know, the wheels just didn’t come off. Well, I think we have to execute better and we have to play with some purpose, but uh we will change some things, but uh uh the way things are going, someone probably already knows about it right now. All right, Rick, thanks for being with us. Good luck tomorrow. And I know that crowd is going to make your team play, Bob. Okay, we’ll have the broadcast with Dick Enberg and Steve Jones tomorrow at 9 Eastern time here on NBC, game five from Portland. Right now, we call a timeout. When we come back, we head over to Paris and check in with Bud Collins on the first day of play in the French Open. And then as promised, the Riley Costa Shootout. [Music] The shootout scoreboard coming up momentarily. Inexplicably, I have gone cold. I could have put this man away several times. I opened 10 of 13. Somehow have missed the last four in a row. He, as Custom has it, first stop talking. Riley fires and swishes it home. No net. Now you got to hit nets only. should I fail will be dead even as the finals loom. Another of your attempted sight jobs pressure. We send it back to Marv Albert and Cotton Fit Simmons for the second half of the Bulls Pistons game after these messages and a word from your local stations. [Music] Welcome back to the Palace of Auburn Hills. Marv Albert Cotton puts Emmens Amad Rashad Chicago Bulls leading rather trailing the leading the Detroit Pistons 5750 at halftime a crunching first half first half that saw five technical fouls called four against Detroit one play in particular I’m just wondering as we saw Dennis Rodman put the hit on Scotty Pippen if this were a regular season game would Rodman have been thrown out he would have been gone during a regular season game because he just made an extra push there. Lambir already made the foul, then he pushed him into the stand. He’s gone. Why should the rules change? The rules should not change. All right, let’s go over to Amad who has Chuck Daly with him. All right, thanks Mark. Coach, now you started a different lineup today, more offensive minded, but then you find yourself down seven points at halftime. What else can you do to try to gain control? Well, uh, we’ll start the same way. The big problem is the offensive boards. They they’ve captured seven and scored on all seven of them. When you give those up, uh, you’ve got a tough route. They’re too easy. What about that Detroit bad boy image? I thought it was gone. I don’t know. They seem to have taken it over the Bulls looks like to me, but uh let’s see what happens. All right. Good night. Good luck to you. Second half. Back to you, Mark. Chuck with a uh a distorted point of view. Cod, we’ll get back to that in a moment. [Applause] It is the Bulls by seven over the Pistons as we get set for the start of play in the third quarter. Again, Joe Dumar struggling, only one for four from the field for his two points. Look at the back court scoring. The Bulls have had the advantage. John Paxton got off quickly, 4 for six overall for 12 points as the Chicago Bulls 21 for 42 from the field in the first half for 50%. And the Detroit Pistons 19 for 40, 47% off the board. Chicago with a 2117 advantage. Chicago ball as we get underway. Lir trying to trunk Grant. Grant took a shot and he’s hurt. Lambir wide open for three. [Applause] Pippen is fouled by Edwards. [Music] I think you could see Horus Grant there going up and under and he thought he got hit right on the head which he did by James Edwards. The official didn’t see it allowed it to go and actually Grant had to stay down at the other end and it was a five on four. Lambir pulled up for three but the Bulls Michael Jordan came away with it and now you see Scotty Pippen at the line. Another opportunity for the Pistons to cash in. They don’t cash in and they fall further behind. Pippen is five for seven from the line. Harris Grant has discarded the prescription goggles that he wore for most of the season. He fell in the Knicks series. Patrick Yuing and Charles Oakley were trying to knock them off. And he said the same for the 76er series with Charles Barkley and Rick Mahorn taking aim. He said against Detroit, there’s no way I would put them on because they’re just going to go for them. But meanwhile, he’s taken a series of shots during the course of this series. The Bulls lead by nine. Edwards setting up on Cartright. [Music] Here is Dumars and he continues to have his shooting problems, but as we have mentioned throughout the series, Joe Dumar is hurting and Grant fouled. He’ll go to the line once again. Dumar’s bothered by a knee. Chuck Daly has said on many an occasion. Foul called Meuire. That is four Magguire that he would love to reduce Dumar’s minutes, but he has not been able to. No, it makes it really tough because with all the other guys out, Joe had to play. He had to play to get them where they are today. And now I think you can tell that too many minutes is really taking his toll on Joe Dumar. There has there has to be something wrong with Dumar. This is not the Joe Dumar’s I know. had that toe injury throughout the regular season and also carried the extra burden because of the wrist injury suffered by Isaiah Thomas. He was doubling up at point guard and and shooting guard for a long spell and Edwards shoved by Cartright. That’s four on Cartwright. And I see Phil Jackson with his hands on top of his head and he just doesn’t want his center to get that many fouls that quick. He may take him out of here soon. Conr played only 13 minutes in the first half. [Music] Dumar thought he was tripped up. Shot clock at six. Isaiah going blast and the Bulls lead by eight. 13 for Thomas. Pippen rebounded. Isaiah’s pass nearly coughed up by Aguire. [Applause] Edwards. And back comes Jordan. Lofting for Pippen. Gets to Cartright. Oh, what a play. Beautiful pass from Pippen to Cartright. And he did it in traffic. It just seems like the Pistons just are struggling so much to put any points on the board. It makes it so tough for him. They’re going to have to catch up soon because they cannot continue to trail this way. Edwards full 62 and the Pistons 54 with two and a half gone by in the third quarter. [Applause] Shot clock is at five and a very friendly rim for Michael Jordan who now has 14. The Bulls extend to a 10-point advantage. The double team on Edwards results in the foul on Grant. The last three times down the court with four fouls on Bill Cartright. The Pistons are doing what they normally do. They’re going right at Bill Cartright, trying to get number five on him, get him out of the game. So far, Phil Jackson stuck with him. He’s not worried about it. [Music] [Applause] Deli starting Mark Maguire here in the third quarter. [Applause] and Pippen doing the work on the box out. Here’s Grant. Sworn move by Horus Grant. He’s hit double figures with 10 points and the Bulls now lead it by 12. It is their biggest lead of the game. [Applause] [Music] Edwards tied up and Joe Crawford says jump ball. Very frustrated Piston offensive team. They really don’t know where their points are going to come from. The Bulls are closing everything up. It’s just a byplay of game one, two, and three. And they have not gotten the points from Mark Aguire. Dennis Robin sitting it out. did not start the game and played only seven minutes in the first half. And Chuck Delhi opening with Meguire again. He’s attempted only three shots and that was early. Here’s Jordan in the race with Thomas. But the Bulls now by 14 and Chuck Del wants to talk it over. So another burst by the Chicago Bulls. The timeout called with 755 remaining in this third quarter. Here is Jordan. Isaiah trying to get back but Michael for two more for his total of 16. [Music] Well, a year ago, Scotty Pippen was haunted by the migraine headache that occurred in the seventh game of last season’s Eastern Conference final. The Bulls lost to Detroit. They will wall up as Pippen went 1 for 10 from the field. Well, Scotty Pippen, who’s come up strong in this year series, has erased the memory of last season. We talked about that with him. It was, you know, just something that I feel that just came over me and I just wasn’t able to produce and, you know, I just hope it doesn’t happen again, at least in that situation. But, you know, I I think I’ll be able to step forward from it again. And as Markuire is able to hit from downtown, the lead is cut to 6857. But Scotty Pippen has certainly stepped forward on a number of occasions throughout the playoffs. Leading the Bulls today, 16 points, eight assists, and two steals. Pippen getting inside here on the rebound. Seven and a half to go in the third. Here is Dumar. Yes. A very good sign for the Pistons when do Joe Joe Dumar starts to light it up cuz he’s the offensive spark that they need to get back in the game. Only his second field goal. Bulls have a 9point lead. And the defense the crowd right. Yes. El Cartright hanging in despite the four personal fouls at his third field goal. He has six. It’s the Bull 70 and the Pistons 59. Dumar’s in the back court. Aguire with Edwards. Lamb beer up front and Aguire got involved with Grant. [Applause] Aris Grant picks up his fourth. Four a piece on Grant and caught right. Purdue has three. The foul run down for Detroit. Aguire with four. Sally has three. Here’s Aguire. Pippen sweeping by and then was stopped. Bulls get back effectively. Isaiah Thomas coming up on the halfway mark of the third quarter. [Applause] Again, the open shot for Cartra. Grant gets the new 24. here jumping out in short putting on the dribbling exhibition. It counts and the foul on Wayne Beer. Beautiful ball movement to set off Grant. I think we’re seeing the Pistons have a hard time covering the Bulls because the Bulls are just too patient in their offense. Pippen had the shot, Jordan had the shot, but they held it back until they could get a layup under for Grant and a free throw as Bill Lambir picks up the foul. That’s three on Lambir. And that was assist number nine for Scotty Pippen leaning for the bucket by Horus Grant. It will be Detroit ball. Cliff Levston being waved on and Horus Brandt sits down. Leaves with 12. John Sally has returned. [Applause] So the Bulls now lead 72 61. [Applause] Michael Jordan tripped up by Edwards. He’s just so tough to cover. Look at Edwards falling down. All he can do really is tackle the guy. He is just too quick for him and it really creates havoc with the Piston defense. He is splitting every trap, every help situation. Nice fake by Jordan. Goes to the scooters. [Applause] 18 for Jordan. The full 74 and the Pistons 61. Maguire from downtown. Good play by Pippen again in his face. Here’s Gumar with a wild shot and Jordan rebounds. He has Pippen. The Bulls have pulled away to a 15point lead with 4 and a half remaining in the third. [Applause] Maguire and a loose ball foul. Call down the Pistons. [Applause] Well, now they say a traveling violation. It will be Chicago Bone with 426 remaining in this third quarter. Benny Johnson getting set to come on. Will Purdue will check in in a moment. Phil Jackson staying with Bill Cartright after he picked up the fourth foul. [Applause] and he’s been able to get away with it. Dumar’s called for the push. Here comes Purdue. And now Cartright will sit down. Michael Jordan 7 for 12 for his 18. And again, a long afternoon for Joe Dumar. Well, not only Joe Dumar, their entire Piston defense because Jordan is just splitting that defense, making it so tough for guys to help on Jordan and still recover to their man. And another thing I’m noticing on the Piston offensive end, the fact that they’ve reached the stage now where they’re talking about I can do it. You’re not seeing two and three extra passes. You’re seeing one catch, one pass. That happens a lot of times when you’re trying to catch up. And that was the story in in game one where the Detroit Pistons took a number of bad shots. The Bull 77 and the Pistons 61. This is the biggest lead of the day. Sally for the hard driving move and he’ll go to the line. [Music] But I think you’re going to see that the press is working as far as the Bulls are concerned. They wanted Sally to handle the ball. They just didn’t want Will Purdue to foul him. Will was too slow getting over there cuz they didn’t feel Sally could make the play off the dribble. What they’re trying to do with their press, as they’ve done in the entire series, keep the ball out of Joe Dumar’s hands. Keep it out of Isaiah Thomas’ hands or Vinnie Johnson. make one of the fallers handle the basketball. Purdue just picked up his fourth. Well, the Detroit Pistons came into this season looking for a third straight NBA crown trying to become the third team to do it to join the Lakers. The Celtics, the old Minneapolis Lakers of the 1950s, lost the Celtics of the 60s. Difficult regular season because of all the injuries suffered. Michael Jordan now with 21. And then in the playoffs, Detroit knocked off Atlanta in five, defeated Boston in a a tough sixgame series, winning it with the uh the overtime. Spark by the injury hit Isaiah Thomas. He missed a couple of games because of a sprained right foot. And now they are looking at a Chicago Bulls club that is attempting to sweep them to end the season. Scotty Pippen has 20. And the Bulls now lead 81- 64. And that would be sweet revenge for a Chicago team that has knocked out of the playoffs the last three years by the Pistons. twice in the Eastern Conference final. Sally call for his fourth. You’re going to see here Jordan’s going to give the Pistons a little help here. He goes up for the rebound. He tips it in for him. He’s trying to help them on their end. Offensively, the Pistons are struggling so badly. Defensively, I think the Pistons can get back in the game, Marv, but offensively, I don’t know where it’s going to come from. Well, Chuck Del now looking to shuffle and he is about to insert William Bedford who has seen very little action during the playoffs. 22 points for Jordan. And here’s Bedford replacing Edwards. Edwards leaves with 14. William Bedford is capable of scoring some points. He likes to shoot the basketball facing the basket more than in a post up position. So I’m sure if he gets the ball in his area, he will take the shot off of Purdue. William Bford originally a firstround pick of the Phoenix Suns. Made it back from drug problems. Started on several occasions during the regular season because of all the injuries suffered up front by the Pistons. Johnson. Yes. Bulls 83 and the Pistons 66. Just under three minutes to go in the third. Light pressure being shown here by Detroit. [Applause] And a 20 second timeout called by the Bulls. 2 minutes 42 seconds remaining in the third. They have now changed to a full timeout. So, we’ll take a break with the Bulls up by 17. A reminder, tomorrow, the NBA playoffs continue on NBC in prime time. It’ll be game number five of the Western Conference Finals. The LA Lakers and the Portland Trail as yesterday, a 1695 win for the Lakers. Portland’s worst loss of the season. I think Edbert Steve Jones will bring it to you. Pistons have led in this series for only 8 minutes 38 seconds and they were helped by 5 minutes of the lead here today. Craig Hadres just did beat the 24second buzzer but Pippen get it back. It’s the quickness quickness and you know not only the quickness of their feet, the quickness of their hands. Really good athletes. Now Paxton back for Livingston. Sally on the rebound as we approach two minutes remaining in the third. It’s the Bulls by 17. They are hoping to make it a fourgame sweep of the defending champs. Reaching foul says Mike Matis. And Will Purdue says I can’t get a break. I’m too young to get a break in this league. I thought I made a good steal. That’s five on Purdue. Bulls over the foul limit. Marv Albert with Phoenix Suns coach Cotton Foot Simmons and Amad Rashad. Cotton sitting in for the Zar of the Thomas Mike Patello who is attending his daughter Christiey’s high school graduation in Atlanta. Congratulations to Christie. As we mentioned the other day, might like to take some time off during the championship round. I know you’re available, Cotton. I am available. My team is not late tonight. I noticed that. Paxton working against Johnson. Isaiah caught on a mismatch with Pippen. Purdue had it knocked away. Three on the 24 and Bulls maintain possession [Applause] and Pippen unleashes. That is a 24se second violation and that has not happened very often. Bulls have always been able to get a shot. Pulls with an 8367 lead. Again, the whistle and it’s called on Detroit. Offensive foul on William Bedford. Coming up on one minute to go in this third quarter. toss in the midst of the weave setting up Paxton Livingston and the foul call again. The quick leaping Cliff Livingston getting inside and he was hit by Joe Dumars. [Applause] [Music] Markuire starting the game instead of Dennis Rodman started off quickly but did not get many shot opportunities at sitting down with nine points. Dumar now departs. And here’s Rodman. That is Rodman not getting much playing time today. Only seven minutes and has not scored the last two games. [Applause] Bulls 85 and the Pistons 67. And the light pressure by Chicago. motion. Will it count? No. Will not get the call on the continuation. That was a sensational shot by Isaiah Thomas. Foul called on Paxton. Look at Isaiah drive. A block is called, but what a over the corner of the backboard. That’s something that we do in the horse game. H O E. Beautiful shot and call the swish. can’t score from that champion. Isaiah Thomas, the MVP of last year’s NBA Championship Series. Well, let’s see. Step on the line. Yeah, if you go back to the horse game, he’ll be the champion. That is the best shot we’ve had today. [Applause] Co 85 of the Pistons 68. [Applause] Here’s Armstrong with a nice set up and Cliff Livingston with another good job off the bench. He has eight points. Well, their bench has played outstanding. Thomas fires, [Applause] pulls by 17. And they have game called on Detroit. 23 and 3/10 seconds remaining in this third quarter. Things did settle down from the physical point of view in the third. There were five technical fouls assessed in the first half. Four against Detroit and one on Chicago. Beer Rodman Paxton Chuck Daily Coach Brendan Sur all hit with a tease. Six and 810 seconds. left in this third quarter. High man for the Bulls. Michael Jordan with 23. Scotty Pippen has 20. Here is Hodgeges. Livingston gets it all. After three at the Palace, the Chicago Bulls 87 and the Detroit Pistons 70. We’ll be back with the fourth quarter after these messages and a word from your local station. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Well, back at the Palace, Michael Jordan is 12 minutes of playing time away from going to the championship round for the first time in his NBA career. A subject that we discussed with Michael You know, I got a little spoiled in college. I came in my first year and we actually won a national championship. And ever since then, I had to find out what it really feels like to get to to be a champion again. So, I guess it would certainly cap off a good career for me if I could win a championship to see the different stages of actually proceeding to win. Good career, huh? Not bad. Yes. Yes. Not a bad career. Dennis Rodman gets credit for that field goal. the goalend indicated. So, the Bulls with an 8772 lead on the Pistons as we get underway in the fourth quarter. Jordan and Armstrong in the back court. Grant up front with Williams and Pippen. Jordan changed his mind and was able to find Grant. Well, it’s been that way all day long. Mark Jordan is just looking. He’ll score if he has to, but he would rather feed the ball off. And Pippet able to pick it off to short. Turnabout is fair play. And their defense right now is doing it. The Bulls energy level is high. The Kingston energy level is down. It’s a 19-point Chicago lead. That was assist number 10 for Scotty Pippen. Michael Jordan has nine along with 25 points. That first played by Williams able to find Sally and Pippen knocked it out enjoying the moment but the basketball will count. The Bulls by 17 with a minute 20 gone by in the fourth quarter. [Applause] Here’s Pitman. And the activity underneath waiting to the foul on Sally. That is number five for John Sally. You can see Jordan there posting up. Looked like he was going to shoot. Dropped it off to Horus Grant. Horus of course laid it in. You know the start of this championship team really occurred. Jordan cashes it in there, but really occurred the year that they drafted Horus Grant and Scotty Pipper. These two guys along with Jordan already being there really put it together and this is why they do have a legitimate chance to win a championship. These two young players have really come a long way. Mark and you see the combination of Jordan and Pippen. They have provided destruction of the Detroit Pistons once again here today. And the other plus for the Bulls, the emergence of the bench during the course of of this season. And you have to also go back to the acquisition of Bill Carter who’s come up very strong in the playoffs. Here’s Jordan. [Music] And again, the hop 27 for Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan was very outspoken concerning the Charles Oakley built cartright deal when when it was made. He was a critic of the trade, but he’s admitted that he was wrong. It was a three-point attempt. [Applause] Oh, tough defensive sequence again by the Bulls. Shot clock is down to four. Here’s Rodman. [Applause] Michael Jordan often talks about the stability that Cartright has provided in the middle. Plus the fact that Will Purdue has come a long way this season and the combination of Cartright and Purdue done a nice job in particular with the situation these days in the NBA where uh you can win it. It counts. Yes. And the foul. You don’t have to have the super center. You know, if you had to have the super center, there wouldn’t be many champions. Timeout has been taken. 3 minutes gone by in the fourth. The Bulls lead by 20. Miller Genuine Draft presents number one draft choices. And today’s fella number one draft pick Isaiah Thomas. Isaiah left college early after leading the Hooers of Indiana to the 81 NCAA championship. He was the second player selected behind current teammate Martin Aguire who was taken with the top pick by the Dallas Mavericks. Isaiah is the Pistons all-time leader in steals and assists. And he is number three on the Pistons alltime scoring list behind Bob Laneir and Dave Bing. A reminder at the end of today’s telecast, we’ll select the Miller genuine draft player of the game. Dennis Rodman with six points and the Bulls now lead 9678 845 remaining in the fourth quarter. Chicago Bulls looking to go to the NBA championship round for the first time in the history of the franchise. They finished 61 and 21 during the regular season. Best record in the history of the club and try to put the four game sweep on the Detroit Piston. Thomas lost it. Livingston guns it down. Here’s Scott Williams again. The Bulls by 20 points. Chuck Py has Benny Johnson and Isaiah Thomas in the back court. William Bedford going to the sweeping hook. Thomas and the loose ball foul is called once again. Harris Brandt taking a shot. Rodman picks up the foul as third. Well, there’s still 758 remaining in this one. But unless there is a miraculous turnaround by Detroit, as you look at this roster, this is a older ball club. I would think of general manager Jack McCloskey, you had to wait and see what would develop during the playoffs. I would think though he is he has been thinking about a few transactions during the off season. Bedford called for the foul and apologizes to to Livingston. Well, I think you know that they have to look at the club. Anytime you have nine guys 30 years or older and first of all, let’s say this team, it’s not over yet, but this team’s had a good run. Well, three straight years into the NBA finals and they’ve done their job. But now, I think they do need some young blood in here to help these guys along. And I’m sure Jack will do what he’s always done, do his very best to try to improve it. You know, it’s a little more difficult today, Marv, to make deals than it used to be. the salary cap is involved and also you got to have somebody what somebody else wants. Scott Williams had it knocked away. 734 remaining in the fourth quarter. Jack McCloskkey has been very successful wheeling and dealing. There are some who believe that he will bring Charles Shanklford in as one possible move. He’s been playing in Europe off the scramble. It’ll take down and the foul is called on Jordan. Was called on Jordan and he was trying to help Rodman up and Rodman finally allowed him to come up. Michael lost the ball off the dribble, but look at the Bulls hustle floor. Cliff Livingston, then Jordan, but he also fouls in order to get there. Thomas is back along with Dumar. Aguire, Rodman, Bedford up front. No, Dumar is now three for nine from the field and he was called for that foul and got Williams shaken up. I believe Marv he’s lost the feeling in the arm. Dumar’s grabbed him by the arm and whether it’s the crazy bone on the elbow or what but he’s lost a little feeling. Let’s go over to Amad. All right, Scotty Williams has had a bad shoulder and he’s going to have it operated on right after the end of the season. His shoulder socket just came out and it was put back in right there at midcourt. Back to you, Mark. And apparently Scott Williams is all right and heads to the foul line. And it did not affect his free throw shooting at all. I’m afraid if I had to put mine back in at midcourt, I’d look to Phil Jackson. Phil, take me out of here. We’re up by 21. I know you’re tougher than that. I don’t know if I’m up to 21 or not. If I am. [Applause] Met by Livingston then double team. The Bulls lead it 9978. [Applause] Medford stripped and fouled. Scott Williams picks it up and a timeout has been called with 644 remaining in the fourth quarter. Chicago Bulls aiming for a 4game sweep. Hey, welcome back to the palace here at Auburn Hills. I’m Amad Rashad joined by general manager Jack McCloskey. And if you’re the defending champion and you’re swept in a series like this, which is a very real possibility at this point, I guess yeah, I guess the first question comes up is age. Is you concerned about your team’s age? Well, we played uh we’re still one of the final four in basketball. We won over 50 games. Uh you know, age, as you know, is just a number. All right, Jack. My body is good. You’re right. We’ve had five great wonderful years with this team. I’m proud as a devil. You put this championship team together. Where do you go from here? We got to We got to try to build a team that’s better than the one we had. Rebuild, then. Oh, yes. Oh, yes. All right. Thanks a lot, Jack. Good luck. Artemat also should be pointed out that this has been a Detroit team that has been hard hit by injury this season. And the good thing about it, they haven’t complained about those injuries. They’re just going on and playing. And I’m sure they won’t take anything away from Chicago’s win here today. It’s the Bulls 99 and the Pistons 80 with 633 remaining in the fourth quarter. Foul on Bedford. That is his fourth and Harris Grant will go to the line. He is two for five from the line. Bill Lane beer sitting down after picking up his third foul. He has 11 points, six rebounds. Although Isaiah Thomas has not had a sparkling game, he is the high man for Detroit with with 16. Isaiah, one of several Pistons playing B. Chicago led by Jordan with 29. Pippen has 21 and Grant with 16. It’s the Bulls 101 and the Pistons 80. Here’s Rodman from downtown. And back comes BJ Armstrong on a threeon two. Pippen [Applause] Pippen going for the steel on the double up and the foul has been called. It’s It’s been a tough afternoon for this guy and I know he’s thinking about a lot of different things right now. It’s a terrible position to be in, but he has a lot to be proud of. He’s the Olympic coach and he’s taken these guys to two straight championships. And as we mentioned during the course of showtime, posing the question, Bentford just lost it to Pippen. Armstrong gets it back out. Have to wonder about the coaching future of Chuck Daly. He had a decision to make last year. He turned down a lucrative retirement as a color commentator for our favorite network and decided to go back with Detroit. Armstrong getting inside. So, the Bulls with a 10380 lead with 520 remaining in the fourth quarter. And I know Chuck is disappointed, but uh he’s got a lot to be proud of as far as the Piston team is concerned. But it is time to turn over the reigns to somebody else. And I don’t mean the coaching rings, I mean the championship rings. And it’s going to be either the Chicago Bulls, the Blazers, or the LA Lakers. Chuck Daly does have a 15-day window following the completion of the season where he can make the decision whether to remain as coach of the Pistons or go elsewhere, but it cannot be as a coach of another club. As you mentioned, he will be the head coach of the 1992 US Olympic men’s basketball team, which will compete in Barcelona, Spain. Here’s Pippen. Fouled by Thomas. But you feel that he will be back. I feel that he’ll be back unless some circumstances come up in those two weeks that Chuck says, you know, I don’t think I can do anything else in Detroit. I need to do something else. And Chuck is now clearing the bench and all we have to do is listen to the crowd. Very emotional scene as Isaiah Thomas and Joe Dumar were taken out of the game. Bill Lane Beer ran off the bench to hug both of his teammates. The Pistons with the indication that it is all over. A great run has come to a close with 438 remaining in this fourth quarter. Now Isaiah runs out to center court to hug Mark Auire. Very hopeful scene for the president and it’s richly deserved because they have been there. They have done the job. They have stuck together through a lot of adversity even in their locker room. Those guys are battlers. And a longstanding ovation by this crowd of 21,000 at the Palace of Auburn Hills. A long thank you for the two championships. The applause continues. And of course, while that was going on, Michael Jordan also has gone to the bench so he can rest those knees. But the Chicago Bulls will await the winner of the LA Laker Portland Traders Series. Timeout has been called. Pistons calling for time. The polls now lead at 10580. Now Vinnie Johnson being greed. There we go. So, all the important parts of the last two championship years getting their due from the crowd and from their teammates. And as I said earlier, rightly so. But in all honesty, they just could not come up with enough offense to win a game in this series. I made a statement earlier, Mark, I didn’t expect them to beat the Atlanta Hawks. I certainly didn’t expect them to beat the Boston Celtics, but they did both. I I’m surprised that you felt they would not beat the Hawks. Well, they had a tough time obviously with them as it extended to five and uh Boston, despite all their injuries, provided a a tough matchup. [Applause] Well, Vinnie Johnson remaining on the floor following that timeout. The Bulls now lead 10582. Well, this was a beat up team. Uh, I know the Phoenix Suns came in here February 3rd that early and they were injured and hurt and we blew them out on this court. That wasn’t the championship team that we were used to facing and lost four straight games to. So, it was a beatup team going into the playoffs. I know the question on Chuck Daily right throughout the season and he was candid about the fact that Scott Hastings who just checked in running for the three Purdue on the rebound he he felt that there was a lack of enthusiasm lack of spirit right throughout the season. No sense of urgency but you could understand that because he was constantly shuffling lineups. This a team that was hurt right throughout and they never did get into it. though. Not bad. They they won 50 games. That’s why I thought Chuck did a nice job. He won 50 games in spite of the injuries and it makes it tough. Now Vinnie Johnson has just pulled up lane and will have to leave the game out and a timeout has been called with 326 to go in the fourth. It’s been a nice touch by the fans of the Detroit Pistons here at the Palace as they continue to applaud for uh the Pistons. Bedford unleashing from downtown as time is running out on this Detroit Championship era. The Chicago Bulls are headed to the NBA Finals. Here’s Stacy King. Well, Stacy King making his first appearance of the series as Hopson has checked in for the first time. John Sally was fouled. Just under 3 minutes remaining in this fourth quarter. Well, looking ahead with the Bulls to go up against either the Los Angeles Lakers or the Portland Trailblazers on the season series, they split with the Lakers. They went 02 against Portland, losing in Chicago by eight and losing by 13 out in Portland. But I don’t think they care who they play. They are just happy to be in the finals and whoever they play, they’ll be focused in. They’re playing outstanding basketball and I can assure you right now the Lakers on top of Portland three games to one, which shocks me, but they’re playing outstanding le by Magic Johnson. Portland shooting only 44% yesterday. They shot 37% on Friday night. And we’ll have game five in prime time tomorrow starting at 9 Eastern time right here on NBC. [Applause] Well, Purdue able to get to it. Hson played by Sally. Hson to the left hand. Rebounded by King. Sally returning to Bedford and the foul is called. You don’t see many 7 foot point guards William Bedford here at the garbage time handling the ball in the back court bringing it down passing it behind his back getting the ball back for a layup here. Foul on Purdue. So that is number six on will Purdue Chicago Bulls against the Blazers and the Lakers led by guess who? Scotty Pippen and and Michael Jordan. John Paxton played well in the two games against the LA Lakers. So will Purdue departs after picking up number six and William Bedford goes to the line? Well, you know, it’s interesting the way that Jordan and Pippen handle the basketball and everything. I think I would enjoy playing with them because they’re going to make you look good. They’re going to penetrate. They’re going to force the action and get you the ball if you’re open. And both unselfish players constantly looking for teammates. And the result today, Pippen with 10 assists and Jordan came up with nine. [Applause] Moses lead 10785. And that foul will put Hopson at the foul line. And today’s a genuine draft player of the game and who certainly enjoyed developments this year in contrast to the migraine headache of a year ago. Scotty Pippen of the Chicago Bulls. And on behalf of Scotty NDC and Genuine Draft will donate $1,000 to the Third Marshall Scholarship Fund. 23 points, 10 assists, three steals for Scotty Pippen. Michael Jordan also had an outstanding day. 29 points. So, the Bulls with a 1085 lead. Tough crowd. They’re chanting go LA. Not accepting the defeat very well as Henderson hits on his first field goal and the Bulls now lead 1087. Hodgers attempted the three. Livingston on the on the put back. Cliff Livingston with 10 points. We’re down to 145 remaining in the fourth quarter as the Chicago Bulls make their way to the NBA final and they have swept right through the competition. They beat the Knicks in three straight, winning the first game by 41 points, knocked off the Sixers in five. And now Phil Jackson and his Chicago Bulls about to put the Pistons away in four. And what a job by Phil Jackson and his staff in his second year as as head coach of the Bulls. Just an outstanding job by Phil. You know, he knew he had a good ball club going in, but to put him on this level is something else. And you know, Phil, he sits over there like Mr. Cool. He doesn’t get too upset right now. His head’s down and everything. I’m not certain he knows he wins. I see he shakes hands right there with one of his coaches and I’m sure he feels good today. You do know he played on the outstanding Nick teams, so he knows what it’s like to be in a championship. He was an assistant under Doug Collins for two years. Phil credited with much of the Bull’s defensive improvement. Had a 13-year career in the NBA 11 with the New York Knicks, including the 7273 championship season. He was with the club 6970, but did not play in the championship. sidelined by by injury and I have to say he was not a likely choice for one who would go on to the coaching rings. Well, I don’t know about that, but he really is an outstanding coach. He did a nice job in the CBA and has just done an outstanding job here with the Bull organization. I say that because his interests were elsewhere did not appear to be interested in in coaching. and Phil Jackson and the Bulls headed for the championship as we come up on one minute remaining in this fourth quarter. Stacy King. Well, Stacy King with his second bucket and the Bulls now lead 112- 89. Hastings. Bedford on the recovery. Gets it back to Hastings. Scott Hastings content to put one through. That’s his first bucket. We’re down to 45 seconds left. King with the one-on-one move on Tree Raleigh. Hastings able to get to it. That’s a leg block kick by. [Music] Tomorrow, the NBA playoffs continue right here on NBC. Game five of the Western Conference Final. James Worthy and the Lakers magic match and the whole crew going up against Clyde the Glide Drexler and the Portland Trailblazer. Hastings hits the three. Dickenberg Steve Jones will be on hand and that’ll be 9:00 Eastern time. Lakers and the Blazers in game number five. How about the turnaround by Vlas? I think Michael I think that Magic Johnson really got him fired up about it and really did the job. Well, I think the crowd is cheering here for the Bulls right now and the Pistons as they leave the court. I don’t think they’re cheering for the Bulls, but uh I I think the greeting is for the Pistons as they are headed off as time runs down. Pistons wasting no time in getting out of here now. Timeout was called. They left the bench with 7 and 9/10 seconds remaining. The Pistons just left. That’s a three-pointer with four and nine 10 seconds remaining. Isaiah Thomas McCloski with another emotional hug. That’s that’s been the story here in the fourth quarter. The Detroit Pistons heading back to the locker room. Their season has concluded while the Chicago Bulls advance to the NBA championship round. They will go against the winner between the Lakers and the Trailblazers. Let’s go to Amad. All right, Michael. For the last three years, it has been Detroit that has gone on. Let me be the first to hand you this. And also, it had to be a bit of sweet revenge winning here. Well, you know, I think you have to give a credit to Scotty Pippenhar Grand supporting cast. these guys played extreme all I think for the city of Chicago and for the organization this is a big step for us and uh you know we can only go and move up you know right now we’re looking forward to the finals and trying to do our best now you mentioned before the game that you wanted to stamp out Detroit and stop that kind of play what was that about well we just wanted to play clean basketball even though they were going to try to you maybe dirty it up but we were going to keep our composure and play the game of basketball like we we know how to play and uh I think we held our heads we really didn’t let them get out get us out of our game and uh we kept our poise and did what we had to do all right I know It’s quick, but who do you prefer in the Western Conference, Portland or LA? Well, when you look at LA, um, you know, we have the home court advantage if you face them, as well as, you know, if you play against Portland, you may have to go out to Portland. Either way, we made it here. It was a goal that we set at the beginning of the season. And, you know, right now, I think everybody’s preferring LA because of the home court advantage. All right, congratulations and good luck in the final. Thanks, baby. All right, back to you, Mark. All right, Amad. So, the Bulls make it a sweep of the Pistons. They defeat the Pistons here at the Palace 115- 94. Michael Jordan moves on to the NBA championship round for the first time. We’ll be right back. [Music]

Watch Michael Jordan dominate the Detroit Pistons in Game 4 of the 1991 Eastern Conference Finals. This historic Bulls victory marked the end of the “Jordan Rules” and Chicago’s long struggle to reach the NBA Finals. Witness the moment Isiah Thomas and the Pistons walk off the court and the unforgettable moments that defined Jordan’s ascension to a champion.