The Last Dance: Michael Jordan’s top moments against Detroit Pistons

3. Michael Jordan erupts for 46 points in Game 3 of 1989 Eastern Conference finals

For the second straight year, the Bulls had gone further than they had before in the postseason. For the second straight season, their opponent would be the Pistons. This time, an NBA Finals appearance was at stake.

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Just like the year before, Jordan and the Bulls earned a split of the first two games in the Motor City. With the series shifting back to Chicago, the Bulls were hoping to take seize control of the series against their division rivals.

Through the first 36 minutes of action, it appeared the Pistons were on their way to a victory, as they took an 11-point advantage into the final frame. However, the Bulls battled back to tie the game at 97.

With the game on the line, everyone in the sports world knew who the Bulls were going to trust to take the last shot. The Pistons knew as well, which is why they put Dennis Rodman on Jordan. Fortunately for the Bulls, the Pistons top defender was unable to stop Jordan from getting to the paint and he hit a tough jumper off the glass with three seconds left to play.

The Bulls won the game 99-97, taking a 2-1 lead. Jordan finished with 46 points (on 16-for-26 shooting) seven rebounds, five assists, and five steals.

Their momentum was short-lived, however, as the Pistons went on to take the series in six games en route to their first NBA title.