29 years ago today, on May 21, 1996, the Chicago Bulls battled the Orlando Magic in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, delivering an unforgettable showdown that solidified the NBA’s growing national appeal.
Chicago’s 93-88 victory wasn’t just a statement on the court—it marked a historic television milestone, drawing an 8.6 rating and a 13.8 share on TNT, with nearly 8.2 million viewers tuning in. At the time, it became the most-watched NBA game in cable television history.
The matchup between the Bulls and Magic carried extra weight. One year earlier, the 1995 Orlando Magic, led by Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway, had stunned the Bulls in the playoffs, ending Michael Jordan’s comeback season after his return from baseball. Now, in 1996, Chicago entered the series seeking redemption after dominating the regular season with an NBA-best 72-10 record.
The Bulls secured Game 1 in convincing fashion, but Game 2 proved to be a fierce battle, showcasing elite defensive intensity and clutch performances.
Despite Orlando’s efforts to steal home-court advantage, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen anchored Chicago’s attack. Jordan finished with 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. Pippen added 24 points and 8 rebounds Meanwhile, Orlando’s Shaquille O’Neal (28 points, 10 rebounds) and Penny Hardaway (24 points, 6 assists) kept the Magic in the game until the final moments.
With 38 seconds remaining, Jordan knocked down a crucial jumper to seal the 93-88 victory, putting the Bulls in firm control with a 2-0 series lead.
The massive viewership numbers from Game 2 underscored the NBA’s rise in popularity during the Jordan era. TNT’s record audience reflected how Jordan’s dominance and the Bulls’ pursuit of a fourth championship captivated millions of fans nationwide.
At the time, the game became the most-watched NBA broadcast in cable television history, reinforcing Chicago’s influence on the sport’s global expansion.
The Bulls maintained their momentum, sweeping Orlando 4-0, securing their place in the NBA Finals, and eventually defeating the Seattle SuperSonics to capture their fourth NBA championship.
Jordan’s remarkable 1996 season, culminating in an MVP award and a historic 72-win regular season, remains one of the most celebrated campaigns in basketball history.
