On This Day, June 7: Bulls’ OT win over Lakers in Game 3 of NBA Finals
ON THIS DAY (1991) – For an entire decade, the Chicago Bulls reigned supreme over the NBA world, winning six championships in eight seasons and going undefeated in the Finals. Led by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, they dominated, and it all started in 1991 when Chicago won their first NBA Finals.
In 1991 the Bulls took down Magic Johnson‘s Los Angeles Lakers, starting their reign of terror. And on this day, June 7, they won Game 3 of the NBA Finals, taking a 2-1 lead over the Lakers. In what was an overtime thriller, the Bulls eventually pulled away, securing a victory over Los Angeles, all led by Jordan.
Heading into overtime, the game was tied at 92-92, but Chicago dominated the final period. The Bulls won overtime by a score of 12-4, finishing the game with a 104-96 victory.
As noted, Jordan led the way for the Bulls. He finished as the team’s scoring leader, dropping 29 points. In addition, he added nine rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks to his totals. However, it was an inefficient performance for Jordan, who shot 11-of-28 from the field and 1-of-1 from behind the three-point line.
Horace Grant also played a big role for the Bulls, ending the night with 22 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists while shooting 9-of-11 from the floor. Pippen had 19 points, 13 rebounds, five assists, and four steals.
For the Lakers, it was a team effort, as three players finished the night with 20 or more points. Sam Perkins had 25 points, Vlade Divac had 24 points, and Magic Johnson had 22 points. Johnson also added six boards, 10 assists, and two steals to his scoreline.
