Published 11:14 IST, April 21st 2020

Michael Jordan branded 'GOD' by Larry Bird after heroics against Celtics in 1986 playoffs

34 years ago, Michael Jordan produced one of his most iconic performances in NBA history. His 63-point show against Celtics prompted a reaction from Larry Bird.

Reported by: Sujay Chakraborty
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first two episodes of Michael Jordan's documentary, Last Dance, premiered on Sunday. Much of documentary will revolve around 1997/98 season where Jordan and Bulls won ir sixth NBA title in eight years. However, several key moments of Michael Jordan's career until that season were also included in Last Dance. 

Also Read | NBA Stars React In Awe Over Michael Jordan's Documentary ' Last Dance'

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One particularly moment featured in Episode 2 of documentary was when Michael Jordan anunced himself to NBA playoffs scene with one of most iconic performances of his career. In  April 20, 1986 Game 2 of playoff series between Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics, Bulls went on to lose game in overtime. But Jordan's performance meant he mand to stun a Celtics side that boasted five Hall of Famers.

Even after 34 years, 'Michael Jordan 63 point game' remains one of his best performances in NBA. Playing for eighth-seeded Bulls, Michael Jordan dropped a historic 63 points against Celtics. Jordan's 63-point haul is still highest point scored by a player in playoffs.

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Also Read | Why Was Barack Obama Titled 'Former Chicago Resident' In Michael Jordan's Documentary?

Long before  Bulls established ir double three-peat winning dynasty, Jordan and Bulls were t heavyweights in 1985/86 season. Meanwhile, Celtics boasted a roster of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Dennis Johnson, Bill Walton and Robert Parish. Larry Bird went on to win his third NBA MVP award on route to winning his third NBA championship in 1986.

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However, Jordan's performance against Celtics meant Bird realised Jordan was a very special player. His interview, which was featured in Last Dance, had Bird quoted as saying: "He is most awesome player in NBA. Today in Boston Garden, on national TV, in playoffs, he put on one of greatest shows of all time.”

"I think he’s GOD disguised as Michael Jordan," Larry Bird on MJ

As mentioned above, despite Jordan's efforts, Bulls lost game 135-131, in two overtimes. However, fans at Boston Garden witnessed one of best performances in NBA history before Bulls and Michael Jordan went onto establish a dynasty in 1990s.

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Also Read | Michael Jordan Last Dance: MJ One Of Greatest Entertainers Of All Time, Says Magic Johnson

Michael Jordan 63 point game against Boston Celtics; highlights

Also Read | Michael Jordan Last Dance: MJ Was Hesitant In Shooting Last Dance Initially, Claims Jason Hehir

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11:14 IST, April 21st 2020