Michael Jordan Headlines Inaugural Bulls Ring Of Honor Class

CHICAGO – Michael Jordan did his share of winning during his time in Chicago and so when it comes to the headliner of the Chicago Bulls inaugural Ring of Honor inductees, the six-time NBA champion was sure to be front and center.

Jordan, who guided the Bulls to the six championships, is among 13 individuals who will be honored in January by the franchise, along with the 1995-96 championship team, the Bulls announced on Tuesday.

In addition to Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, coach Phil Jackson, Artis Gilmore, Johnny “Red” Kerr, Dick Klein, Jerry Krause, Toni Kukoc, Bob Love, Jerry Sloan, Chet Walker, and Tex Winter will all be part of the inaugural Ring of Honor inductees.

The 1996-97 Bulls capped the season by defeating the Utah Jazz in the NBA Finals and finished the year with a 69-13, a year after the team finished 72-10.

The team announced plans to add to the Ring of Honor each year.

“The Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor will be a first-of-its-kind celebration honoring many of the legends who have helped shape our organization over the past 57 years,” Bulls President and CEO Michael Reinsdorf said in a statement issued by the team. “They have a deep connection to our fans and community and represent a spirit of competition, hard work, and toughness.”

The first Ring of Honor class will be recognized on Jan. 12 when the Bulls face the Golden State Warriors at the United Center. In addition, a private gala event will be held on Jan. 11. The general public will also be able to engage with the Ring of Honor with an atrium experience that will be open from Jan. 10-12.

The team said that to be considered for the Ring of Honor, players must have spent at least three years with the Bulls and had to have made significant achievements with the team. In addition, players must have demonstrated high character both on and off the court during their playing careers and in retirement.