“Ring Of Honor” or “Ring Of Dishonor”? As in Phoenix, the Bulls decided to create their own Hall Of Fame, and every two years, management decided to pay tribute to former players or former teams who have marked the history of the franchise. For this first edition, the Bulls decided to honor 13 personalities and the entire 1995/96 team, titled after winning 72 matches in the regular season.
As the Warriors were visiting, Steve Kerr participated in the tribute. Even if the presence of Phil Jackson, sitting on a chair in midfield, was moving, we will especially remember that Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman were not there! Dennis Rodman was supposed to be there, but the weather forced him to cancel his trip. As for Pippen and Jordan, they simply sent a video message…
Worse, the party was completely ruined by whistles. GM of the Bulls from 1985 to 2003, the late Jerry Krause was the architect of the Bulls dynasty, and his widow Thelma was present for this tribute. Unfortunately, whistles accompanied the name of her late husband, and that is what will remain of this evening which was intended to be a celebration.
“I'll tell you, Chicago is a sports town, and what we saw today when people were booing the name of Jerry Krause and his widow, it was the worst thing I've ever seen in my life. life “, reacted Stacey King, former Bulls interior, now a TV consultant. “I felt bad for this woman. She cried and those who booed her in this room should be ashamed.”
Steve Kerr destroyed by whistles
Same reaction from Steve Kerr. “I am devastated for Thelma and for the Krause family. I can't believe the fans did this – and I realize that's not everyone. The fans who booed know who they are. For me, this is absolutely shameful and I am devastated. Whether people liked Jerry or not, we're here to celebrate this team. Jerry has done an extraordinary job building this team. …And I'm so disappointed in the fans…A lot of fans, I'm sure, didn't boo. But those who booed should be ashamed.”
These whistles forced the Bulls to publish a press release through the voice of the President Michael Reinsdorfto recall the essential role of Jerry Krause in the history of the franchise. “Jerry Krause was a six-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Executive of the Year. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his achievements and is an important part of our history. His legacy deserves to be celebrated and respected. We were incredibly honored to have Thelma with us tonight to recognize Jerry as a member of the Chicago Bulls' first circle of honor. »
The final word for Ron Harper, author of the hat-trick with the Bulls between 1996 and 1998. “First of all, fans, we're not booing Jerry Krause! »launched Ron Harper. “This man has done a lot of great things here. He may not be your favorite person, but we have to respect the man. I didn't really like this part. But for the whole ceremony, it was great.”
