Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals Performance: Jerry West’s Iconic Commentary and Its Lasting Impact

The 1998 NBA Finals between the Chicago Bulls and the Utah Jazz is often regarded as one of the most legendary series in basketball history.

It was the culmination of Michael Jordan’s dominance in the sport, marking his sixth and final championship with the Bulls before his second retirement.

Among the many unforgettable moments from that series, a particular comment from Jerry West, the Los Angeles Lakers legend and then-general manager, stood out.

His words about Jordan during that historic showdown captured the essence of MJ’s greatness and continue to resonate with basketball enthusiasts to this day.

Setting the Stage: The 1998 NBA Finals

The Finals featured a rematch of the previous year’s championship series between the Bulls and the Jazz.

The series was defined by its intense defensive battles, clutch performances, and the looming question of whether this would be Jordan’s last run with the Bulls.

Chicago had already won five championships in the 1990s, and with Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and head coach Phil Jackson at his side, Jordan was once again on the brink of history.

Utah, led by Karl Malone and John Stockton, entered the series determined to dethrone the reigning champions.

The Jazz had the home-court advantage and a well-balanced team capable of challenging the Bulls.

However, as was often the case in Jordan’s career, no opponent ever truly held an edge when he was on the court.

Jerry West’s Admiration for Michael Jordan

Throughout his career, Michael Jordan garnered the admiration of legends, coaches, and analysts alike.

But few endorsements carried as much weight as that of Jerry West, an NBA icon himself.

West, who had been an integral part of the Lakers both as a player and an executive, recognized greatness when he saw it.

He had competed against Bill Russell’s Celtics dynasty in the 1960s and had built multiple championship-winning Lakers teams as an executive, including the foundation of the early 2000s dynasty featuring Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.

During the 1998 Finals, West made a striking remark about Jordan, cementing his status as the undisputed best player in the world. He stated:

“Michael Jordan is the best player I have ever seen. If you want to know what makes a champion, just watch him.”

These words carried profound significance, considering West’s extensive experience in the league.

For someone of his stature to acknowledge Jordan in such a way was a testament to MJ’s unparalleled ability to dominate games, elevate teammates, and deliver in the most crucial moments.

The Clutch Performance That Defined an Era

Jordan’s performance throughout the 1998 Finals was nothing short of spectacular.

Despite dealing with fatigue and the immense pressure of what was likely his last season with the Bulls, he averaged 33.5 points per game in the series.

His Game 6 heroics remain one of the most replayed moments in sports history.

With the Bulls trailing 86-83 in the final minute, Jordan took control in a way only he could.

He scored a quick layup to cut the deficit to one point.

On the ensuing possession, he made a crucial defensive play by stealing the ball from Karl Malone in the post.

Then, with 5.2 seconds remaining, Jordan delivered his iconic game-winning shot over Bryon Russell, securing the Bulls’ sixth championship.

The image of Jordan holding his follow-through, frozen in time, has since become an enduring symbol of excellence.

Why Jerry West’s Comment Matters Today

Jerry West’s statement about Jordan wasn’t just about his scoring ability or athleticism—it was about his mentality.

Jordan embodied everything that made a champion: work ethic, leadership, competitive fire, and an unshakable belief in his ability to win.

In an era where debates about the greatest players in NBA history are as passionate as ever, West’s words serve as a powerful reminder of Jordan’s legacy.

While players like LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and others have added to the GOAT conversation, West’s endorsement underscores why Jordan’s dominance remains unparalleled.

Furthermore, West’s admiration for Jordan highlights the mutual respect among basketball legends.

As someone who understood the challenges of winning at the highest level, West’s words resonate as an authentic tribute to the greatest player of his time.

The Lasting Legacy of the 1998 NBA Finals

The 1998 Finals represented the end of an era for the Bulls. Following their victory, the team was dismantled, with Jordan retiring (albeit temporarily), Pippen being traded, and Jackson stepping down as head coach.

The league would never see the same Chicago Bulls dynasty again.

However, Jordan’s impact remained. His influence stretched beyond championships and statistics—he became the global icon that defined basketball for generations.

His ability to perform under pressure, his commitment to excellence, and his relentless drive set a standard that aspiring athletes continue to follow today.

Conclusion: A Legend Acknowledging Another Legend

Jerry West’s comment during the 1998 NBA Finals wasn’t just a passing remark—it was a validation of Michael Jordan’s status as the greatest player in NBA history.

West, a man whose own legacy is immortalized in the league’s logo, understood what it took to achieve greatness. For him to praise Jordan in such a definitive way speaks volumes about the impact MJ had on the game.

As basketball continues to evolve, Jordan’s performances, particularly in the 1998 Finals, remain a benchmark for greatness.

His ability to rise to the occasion, embrace pressure, and deliver when it mattered most is what separates him from the rest.

And as long as discussions about basketball’s greatest players continue, Jerry West’s words will serve as an enduring testament to Michael Jordan’s unparalleled legacy.