Legendary Moments: Michael Jordan returns to NBA in 1995 after 17-month retirement

Posted Mar 20, 2019
Michael Jordan shocked the NBA world on March 18, 1995, with a now infamous, two-word fax: "I'm back." The next day -- more than a year after his retirement -- Jordan was back with the Chicago Bulls to face the Indiana Pacers. Jordan wore No. 45 because No. 23 had been retired by the Bulls following his retirement. It's still the most-watched game in NBA history. (NBA.com)

Related: Basketball, Tar Heels in the NBA

Former UNC Forward Deon Thompson Expected to Join Michael Malone's Basketball Coaching Staff
Deon Thompson is coming home. A source close to the program confirmed the 2009 national champion is expected to join Michael Malone’s staff as a...
Tue May 12, 2026

What UNC Basketball lost and gained in backcourt production
The Tar Heels' entire starting backcourt has turned over this offseason. The good news for UNC Basketball is that coach Michael Malone has brought in...
Tue May 12, 2026

Success Beyond a Lottery Pick for UNC Basketball
Even if you are drafted highly, you have to turn that into playing at an elite level. That, more than anything, is what’s been...
Tue May 12, 2026

Caleb Wilson on his UNC pickup game that went viral
What Caleb Wilson has meant to North Carolina really can't be measured. On top of being such a great playmaker, Wilson fully embraced the Chapel...
Mon May 11, 2026