1996 The Return: Jordan’s Comeback Crown

In March 1995 Michael Jordan’s "I’m Back" announced his return. The 1995-96 season was his first full one back; the world watched — was that Jordan still there?

The answer rang out. Under Phil Jackson the Bulls went a then-record 72-10; Jordan reclaimed the scoring title at 30.4 a game. In the Finals against Gary Payton’s Seattle SuperSonics, Chicago won 4-2; Jordan averaged 27.3 and took a clear fourth Finals MVP.

It was Jordan’s first title after comeback and the start of the 1990s’ second three-peat (1996-98). It told the league: two years in baseball hadn’t dimmed the era’s ruler.

"I’m Back" was more than a return — it was a throne restored. 72 wins and a fourth ring erased every doubt in a year.

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