Michael Jordan's Rookie Season Timeline - 1984 - 1985

In the spring of 1984, Michael Jordan walked off the court at the University of North Carolina for the last time. That same summer, he dominated the world stage in the 1984 Olympics, leading Team USA to gold. He was drafted #3 overall by the Chicago Bulls, a struggling franchise with a city hungry for a hero.

Before ever stepping onto an NBA floor, Jordan had already inked a game-changing deal with Nike, signing a contract that would reshape the relationship between athlete, brand, and culture forever.

By the time the All-Star Game tipped off in February 1985, Jordan was no longer just a rookie, he was the attraction. A league-wide sellout sensation. Every arena was packed when the Bulls came to town. Every kid wanted to “Be Like Mike.” And by season’s end, the NBA had changed forever.

1984

Pre Olympic Trials

Date: April 15 - April 30, 1984
Location: Bloomington, IN
Team USA 1984 Olympics

In April 1984, the USA men's senior basketball team gathered at Bob Knight’s regular base in Bloomington, Indiana. Knight, who was also the head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers, led the team through the intense selection process. This was the final step for players vying for a spot on the 1984 Olympic team.

The trials took place at the Indiana University Fieldhouse, a simple gymnasium that was far from the luxury of NBA arenas. Players stayed at the IU Memorial Union and ate in the cafeteria, with transportation provided in maroon vans.

A total of 73 players were invited to the trials, including future NBA stars like Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, and John Stockton. The selection process was rigorous, with Knight and his assistants carefully evaluating each player, making cuts as they honed in on the final roster.

During the trials, Jordan quickly emerged as a standout, impressing Knight with his skills, competitiveness, and work ethic. Jordan’s performance helped cement his place on the team, and by the time the final roster was announced in June 1984, he was officially part of the 1984 U.S. Olympic basketball team.

The 1984 NBA Draft

Date: June 19, 1984
Location: Madison Square Garden, NY
Drafted by The Chicago Bulls 3rd Overall

Michael Jordan was never really considered for the number one pick in the 1984 NBA Draft. The two players taken ahead of him, Hakeem Olajuwon, selected by the Houston Rockets, and Sam Bowie, selected by the Portland Trail Blazers.

Despite being a standout at the University of North Carolina and shining in the 1984 Olympic Trials, Jordan’s draft stock wasn’t universally seen as the slam dunk it would later become. Rod Thorn, the general manager of the Chicago Bulls in 1984, expressed reservations about drafting Jordan. He admitted, "We wish he were seven feet, but he isn't... Jordan isn't going to turn this franchise around."

The sentiment was shared with numerous experts and talent scouts. But the people who truly believed in Jordan’s potential included some of the brightest minds in basketball, among them:

• Bob Knight – Before Jordan entered the NBA, Coach Bob Knight, who led the U.S. Olympic team in 1984, was unequivocal in his praise. He described Jordan as "the best basketball player I've ever seen play," highlighting Jordan's exceptional skills and competitive spirit. Knight’s belief in Jordan was so strong that when the Portland Trail Blazers, who already had Clyde Drexler, hesitated to draft Jordan, Knight suggested they "play him at center."
  

• Sonny Vaccaro – Sonny Vaccaro, a key figure in sports marketing, recognized Jordan's potential early on. He was instrumental in bringing Jordan to Nike, securing a deal that would revolutionize athlete endorsements. Vaccaro's vision extended beyond basketball; he saw Jordan as a global brand ambassador. He took a stand against the front office at Nike, insisting that Jordan was the guy they wanted to sign over any others. The high ups at Nike wanted to give 4 players money, Vaccaro said no give all the money to Jordan.
  

• Roy Williams – Roy Williams, who coached Jordan at the University of North Carolina, observed Jordan's relentless work ethic and desire to improve. He noted that Jordan had the ability to get better, a trait that set him apart from many other players.
  

In what many consider the greatest draft in NBA history, over eight future Hall of Famers were selected, but it was Michael Jordan who would end up being the biggest and most lasting impact of all.

Pre-Olympic Exhibition

Date: July of 1984
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Opponent: NBA All-Stars and International Teams

Before heading to the 1984 Summer Olympics, Michael Jordan and Team USA played a series of nine exhibition games against NBA stars and international teams. One of the most notable matchups was when the collegians faced off against NBA All-Stars including legends like Larry Bird, Isiah Thomas, Magic Johnson, and Robert Parish.

Jordan dominated, he led Team USA to a 94–90 victory over the pros. He outplayed several future NBA Hall of Famers in that exhibition, leaving an indelible mark on anyone watching.

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Olympics

Date: July 29th - August 4th, 1984
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Team USA 1984 Olympics
Jordan 1984 Olympic Stat Line: 17 Points, 5 Rebounds, 2 Assists

Before he set off to the NBA, Michael Jordan committed to playing for his country at the 1984 Summer Olympics under the guidance of Indiana Hoosiers Coach Bob Knight. Jordan, still a college player at the time, was part of a U.S. team that featured a mix of young talent and seasoned players, all aiming for the gold medal.

The U.S. men’s basketball team dominated the competition, winning all of their games by an average margin of 32 points. Jordan was a standout throughout the tournament, showcasing the skills, athleticism, and competitive drive that would define his career. His performances, particularly his ability to elevate his game under pressure, left a lasting impression on both his teammates and opponents. Over the course of the tournament, he averaged 17.1 points per game, along with 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists.

Jordan’s Olympic experience was more than just basketball, it was the start of his transition into becoming a global icon. His strong play and leadership helped to elevate the entire team, and by the time the tournament ended, he had earned his first major international gold medal.

This Olympic victory was a stepping stone for Jordan, building momentum for his NBA career and further cementing his place as a future legend of the sport.

Training Camp

Date: October 1984
Location: Angel Guardian gym in Chicago, IL
Chicago Bulls

In October 1984, the Chicago Bulls opened their training camp at Engelmann Gymnasium in Chicago. The team featured a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, including Michael Jordan, who had been drafted third overall in June. Other notable players in camp included Orlando Woolridge, Quintin Dailey, and Dave Greenwood. Those in attendance said it was clear Jordan was the best player by the 2nd day of camp.

During the camp, Jordan quickly impressed coaches and teammates with his work ethic, athleticism, and competitive spirit. An assistant coach reportedly called General Manager Rod Thorn to say, “Congratulations, you did not mess this draft up,”.

The training camp set the tone for Jordan's rookie season, as he began to establish himself as a cornerstone for the Bulls' future success.

Nike

Date: October 26, 1984
Mr. Jordan Signs with Nike

In October 1984, Michael Jordan found himself at a crossroads in his career. Nike, a company not yet known for its basketball presence, was fighting for a chance to sign him, competing against established brands like Adidas and Converse. Nike’s marketing executive, Sonny Vaccaro, was tasked with securing Jordan as a cornerstone for their basketball division.

Vaccaro understood that simply offering a traditional endorsement wasn’t going to cut it. Instead, he painted a bold vision: Jordan would not just endorse Nike, but become the face of his own signature line of shoes and apparel. The meeting was set at Tony Roma’s in Santa Monica, where Vaccaro laid out his vision for the future.

Nike’s pitch included a highlight reel of Jordan’s iconic dunks, set to "Jump (For My Love)" by The Pointer Sisters. The footage was meant to capture Jordan’s athleticism and charisma, but Vaccaro also understood that a star like Jordan needed more than just a flashy presentation. The Nike team even showcased the first design of the Air Jordan shoe. However, Jordan was honest about his preferences he didn’t like the colorway of the shoe they had presented.

Instead of pushing back or disregarding his feedback, Nike listened. They made changes, designing a shoe that was truly Jordan’s own. Vaccaro’s foresight was clear: Jordan wasn’t just another athlete to market; he was a phenomenon in the making, and his signature shoe would reflect his individuality and style. Nike took the bold step of building a brand around Jordan making him a "standalone star."

On October 26, 1984, Jordan signed a landmark deal with Nike. The five-year, $2.5 million agreement was unprecedented at the time—three times higher than any other NBA endorsement deal. But what made this deal stand out even more was the structure: Jordan would receive royalties from the sales of his signature shoes. This was a groundbreaking approach to athlete endorsements, one that would later become the norm in sports marketing.

When the Air Jordan sneaker line debuted on November 17, 1984, it was clear that Nike’s gamble had paid off. The shoe didn’t just sell well, it sold out. In the first year alone, Nike made $126 million from the Air Jordan line, far surpassing the projected $3 million goal.

Vaccaro’s vision had transformed Jordan into a global icon. The partnership didn’t just elevate Nike as a brand it made Michael Jordan synonymous with excellence both on and off the court. The Air Jordan line became more than just a product; it became a cultural phenomenon that transcended basketball, influencing fashion, music, and youth culture around the world.

First Games - The Birth of Air Jordan

Date: October 26, 1984
Location: Chicago Stadium, Chicago, IL
Chicago Bulls Regular Season
Jordan Stat Line: 16 Points, 6 Rebounds, 7 Assists

From the moment Michael Jordan stepped onto the NBA court, it was clear he was destined for greatness. His debut game for the Chicago Bulls took place on October 26, 1984, against the Washington Bullets at Chicago Stadium. Jordan wasted no time making an impact, showcasing the versatility, athleticism, and energy that would come to define his career.

In a dominant 109-93 victory, Jordan scored 16 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, dished out 7 assists, recorded 4 blocks, and stole 2 balls. Even as a newcomer, Jordan’s poise and skill were already evident, and his presence on the court excited both his teammates and the fans.

BIG Game Hunter

Date: October 26, 1984
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Chicago Bulls vs Milwaukee Bucks
Jordan Stat Line: 37 Points

Michael Jordan’s first big scoring game came just three games into his NBA career, on October 29, 1984, against the Milwaukee Bucks. In this game, Jordan scored an impressive 37 points, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 116–110 victory. This performance marked a major milestone in Jordan’s early career.

Jordan’s ability to take over a game with his scoring was evident from the start. The 37 points were a strong statement that he was not only capable of holding his own in the NBA but that he could dominate offensively, even as a rookie. This game, one of his earliest, would be just the beginning of a long list of memorable performances.

Welcome To The Garden

Date: November 8, 1984
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks
Jordan Stat Line: 33 Points, 8 Rebounds, 5 Assists

In just his seventh NBA game, Michael Jordan delivered a performance that would become legendary. Facing the New York Knicks at the Mecca of Basketball, Jordan scored 33 points, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 121–106 victory. He also contributed 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks, shooting an impressive 15-of-22 from the field in just 33 minutes of play.

Jordan's electrifying play, including a memorable steal and rock the baby dunk, showcased his potential to become one of the game’s greats. The crowd at Madison Square Garden witnessed firsthand the emergence of a future NBA icon.

Over the years, Jordan's performances at Madison Square Garden became a staple of his career, with many unforgettable moments that solidified his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

First Showdown with the Showtime Lakers -  Welcome To Forum

Date: December 2, 1984
Location: The Forum, Inglewood, CA
Chicago Bulls vs Los Angeles Lakers
Jordan Stat Line: 20 Points, 2 Rebounds, 3 Assists

This was Jordan’s first taste of going head-to-head with the Showtime Lakers on the road. In his rookie season, Jordan played a strong 42 minutes and poured in 20 points on 7-of-13 shooting. He also added 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block, helping the Bulls edge out a tight 113–112 victory over a veteran Lakers squad with stars like Kareem (32 points) and Magic (12 points, 16 assists).

The win was monumental for the young Bulls beating the defending champs in their arena was a statement. Jordan showed he wasn’t intimidated by the big stage or the elite competition.

MJ Torches Cleveland - For The First Time

Date: December 27, 1984
Location: Chicago Stadium
Chicago Bulls vs Cleveland Cavaliers
Jordan Stat Line: 45 Points, 7 Rebounds, 11 Assists

On this night, Michael Jordan exploded for 45 points, handed out 11 assists, grabbed 7 rebounds, and added 3 steals, leading the Bulls to a hard-fought 112–108 victory.

His scoring came in waves, attacking the rim, hitting mid-range shots, and getting to the line in crunch time. But it wasn’t just scoring. Jordan controlled the floor, involving teammates and dictating the game’s rhythm with confidence and skill well beyond his years.

1985

85 NBA Slam Dunk Contest

Date: Feb 9, 1985
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Slam Dunk Contestants: Dominique Wilkins (Atlanta Hawks), Michael Jordan (Chicago Bulls), Terence Stansbury (Indiana Pacers), Julius Erving (Philadelphia 76ers), Larry Nance (Phoenix Suns), Darrell Griffith (Utah Jazz), Orlando Woolridge (Chicago Bulls), Clyde Drexler (Portland Trail Blazers)

The 1985 NBA Slam Dunk Contest is often considered one of the most iconic in NBA history. It featured a memorable showdown between Dominique Wilkins and Michael Jordan. Wilkins clinched the title with a perfect final round score of 50, narrowly edging out Jordan, who scored 49. The contest was a display of incredible athleticism, creativity, and flair. Jordan’s performance in particular captivated the crowd, showcasing his leaping ability and style. However, it was Wilkins’ powerful and dynamic dunks that ultimately secured his victory.

85 NBA ASG

Date: Feb 10, 1985
Location: Indianapolis, IN
East All-Stars
Jordan Stat Line: 7 Points, 6 Rebounds, 3 Assists

The 1985 NBA All-Star Game is often remembered for a significant controversy known as the "Freeze-Out." Despite Michael Jordan’s remarkable rookie season, he received limited involvement in the game, playing just 22 minutes and scoring 7 points on 2-of-9 shooting, along with 6 rebounds and 3 assists.

The "Freeze-Out" refers to the alleged deliberate exclusion of Jordan from offensive plays by veteran players, reportedly led by Isiah Thomas. This action was believed to be a response to Jordan’s rising popularity and the media attention surrounding him, which some veterans felt was overshadowing their own achievements. It was rumored that Thomas was jealous of the media coverage Jordan was receiving in Thomas' home town of Chicago.

While the controversy surrounding this game has been debated for years, with some confirming and others refuting the claims, it is a significant moment in Jordan’s early career. 

Jordan's Revenge Game vs Isiah Thomas

Date: Feb 12, 1985
Location: Chicago, IL
Chicago Bulls vs Detroit Pistons
Jordan Stat Line: 49 Points, 15 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 61.3% FG

This wasn’t just any game. Just two days after the infamous "Freeze-Out" at the All-Star Game, allegedly orchestrated by Isiah Thomas. Michael Jordan stepped into Thomas’s hometown and lit the Pistons on fire.

 He dropped a career-high 49 points, adding 15 rebounds and 5 assists, showcasing both his scoring touch and his all-around dominance. His efficiency was remarkable, shooting 19-for-31 from the field (61.3%) and making 11 of 13 free throws (84.6%). This performance wasn't just a one-night wonder, it was a statement. A future look into the mind of a competitor who would never back down.

This performance stands as one of the greatest single-game outputs by a rookie in NBA history, and it sent a clear message: Michael Jordan was not just an emerging star, he was already dominant.

Playoffs 

Date: April 19-26, 1985
Location: Milwaukee, WI & Chicago, IL
Chicago Bulls vs Milwaukee Bucks
Jordan Series Stat Line: 29.3 Points, 5.8 Rebounds, 8.5 Assists

A rookie very rarely leads his historically bad team into a situation where they reach the playoffs. But in his very first playoff series, Michael Jordan faced the Milwaukee Bucks. Although the Chicago Bulls ultimately lost the series 3–1, Jordan’s performance was a standout. He averaged 29.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game, proving that he was a force to be reckoned with, even as a rookie.

Despite the team’s loss, Jordan showed the basketball world that he had the ability to shine under pressure and make his mark in the postseason. His dominant performances were a clear indication of the superstar potential he would soon realize in his career.

Rookie of The Year

Date: May 16, 1985
Location: Chicago, IL
Jordan Rookie Year Stats: 28.2 Points, 6.5 Rebounds, 5.9 Assists

Jordan dominated the voting, receiving 2,134 points, which was a substantial margin over his closest competitor, Hakeem Olajuwon, who garnered 780 points. This overwhelming support reflected the impact Jordan had in his inaugural season. Notably, Jordan finished sixth in the MVP voting, surpassing established stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Isiah Thomas, highlighting his immediate influence in the league.

After an exceptional rookie season, Michael Jordan was awarded the NBA Rookie of the Year on May 16, 1985, recognizing his immense impact on the court. His rookie year was nothing short of legendary, as he finished with averages of 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, making him the first rookie in NBA history to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, and steals.