Michael Jordan makes headlines as Bulls’ first Ring of Honor graduates

CHICAGO — Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman headline the inaugural Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor.

The Bulls unveiled their Ring of Honor plans on Tuesday. The first class included 13 men and the 1995-96 team won the NBA championship with a 72-10 record. The series plans to host several events in January to honor the group.

The inaugural class also included Phil Jackson, Jerry Krause, Artis Gilmore, Jerry Sloan, Toni Kukoc, Bob Love, Chet Walker, Johnny “Red” Kerr, Tex Winter and Dick Klein. The 1995-96 team coached by Jackson included Jordan, Pippen, Rodman and Kukoc. Krause led the management and Winter served as the assistant coach.

“The Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor will be an unprecedented celebration honoring the many legends who have helped shape our franchise over the past 57 years,” Bulls president Michael Reinsdorf said in a release. “They have a deep connection with our fans and community and represent a spirit of competition, hard work and tenacity.”

Ring of Honor festivities include a private gala at the United Center on Jan. 11 and a halftime speech on Jan. 12 against the Golden State Warriors. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr also played for the Bulls in the 1995-96 season.

The team plans to add Ring of Honor every two years, so the next Ring of Honor will be introduced in 2026. The criteria for players to be selected include playing for the team for at least three seasons and being retired for at least three years.