The Second Three-Peat: Bulls at Their Peak

From 1996-98, the Chicago Bulls completed a second three-peat under Phil Jackson’s triangle, echoing 1991-93. The core was still Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen; the interior became rebounding madman Dennis Rodman.

This cycle was more mature: Jordan in his 30s with craftier skill; Pippen the all-around sidekick; Rodman’s boards freeing the perimeter. The 72-win 1996 run and back-to-back Jazz wins in 1997-98 made the 90s wholly "Jordan’s decade."

The second three-peat proved the dynasty wasn’t luck. After a first peak and a baseball retirement, returning for three more titles is a consistency no one has matched.

A dynasty can have two arcs, but Jordan’s two three-peats belong to one name.

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