Seconds after the halftime buzzer sounded on Friday, the United Center lights dimmed and yellow rope appeared to separate fans from the court, which was no longer suitable for a basketball game.
The stage and chairs were set up for the Bulls’ first Ring of Honor class, which included the 1995-96 team, former coach Phil Jackson and a number of front office executives and coaches. A soft cheer rose from the sand as the winners’ footsteps emerged from the tunnel.
Chicago rapper Common provided the voice for a tribute video played before Neil Funk introduced the class.
Artis Gilmore was the first to announce, followed by Johnny “Red” Kerr, who is represented by his son Matt. Subsequent names include Dick Klein, the Bulls’ first general manager, three-time All-Star Bob Love and “the original Bull” Jerry Sloan.
Jerry Krause, the Bulls’ general manager during their six championship seasons, died in 2017. His death was met with boos from fans, and his widow, Thelma, was on hand to mourn on his behalf. tears.
Bulls President and CEO Michael Reinsdorf was not satisfied with the fan reaction to Krause, issuing a statement after the game:
“Jerry Krause was a six-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Executive of the Year. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his achievements and is an important part of our history. His legacy deserves to be celebrated and respected. “We are honored to have Selma join us tonight in recognizing Jerry as a member of the inaugural Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor. “
On NBC Sports Chicago, analyst Stacey King didn’t mince words.
“Today, as Jerry Krause’s name was called, we witnessed those who called for Jerry Krause and his widow to accept this honor for him,” King said. “The worst thing I’ve ever seen in my life.” “I feel so bad for that lady. It brought tears to her eyes. Whoever booed her on this stage should be ashamed of themselves.”
After a brief halftime discussion with his team, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr celebrated on the court with his former teammates. Before the game, Cole highly praised Jackson’s ability to set standards and help him win two three-peats. Jackson received the warmest approval from fans.
“What Phil does year in and year out is set expectations, set standards and then drive a culture of inclusivity, inspiration and beauty,” Kerr said. “That feeling makes you come to the gym every day because you know you’re a part of something special, and that’s Phil’s genius.”
After the game, Kerr was equally angry about the fans’ reaction to Krause.
“I’m devastated for Thelma and the Krause family,” he said. “I can’t believe the fans – you have to understand when you hear boos, not all fans boo. The fans that boo, they know who they are. For me, it’s definitely Shameful, I’m appalled by this.
“Whether people like Jerry or not, we’re here to celebrate this team. Jerry did a great job building the team. I’m very disappointed in the fans — and I want to be specific because I’m sure there are a lot of fans who didn’t boo They. But those who booed should be ashamed.”
After missing Thursday night’s after-party at the United Center, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman were once again absent from the halftime festivities. Rodman’s absence was due to weather, but Jordan and Pippen have been absent from the organization for years and not due to canceled flights.
The show goes on without them.