“I had a death in my family…” Michael Jordan apologizes to Blackhawks legend Chris Chelios for missing jersey retirement

Basketball legend Michael Jordan has a few close friends. One of them happens to be Chicago Blackhawks legend Chris Chelios. And they were so close that Jordan was supposed to be present at Chelios’ jersey retirement ceremony. But Jordan apologized via a video message as he could not be present.

Chris Chelios played for his hometown Blackhawks for 9 seasons. Chelios formed a friendship with the Chicago Bulls great as they shared the United Center as their home court. Chelios was in line to get his jersey retired by the Blackhawks. So it was natural that Jordan was expected to be present. But he could not, and he shared a video message which was replayed during the ceremony. Jordan said:

Hey, man, unfortunately, Chelios, I can't make it again this week. I had a death in the family for Sunday. Look, you're a very deserving man, and I'm proud to see your jersey up there with my jersey. You and I have been friends for 30 years, so I wish you the best. I send a bunch of love, you know, go Blackhawks!

Michael Jordan on Chris Chelios.

Jordan alluded that he missed the Bulls Ring of Honor for unforeseen reasons and did not want to miss this. But his family situation did not help his cause.

Chelios appreciated Jordan’s message and mentioned that both of them would be celebrating on Jordan’s boat in the coming days. He talked about their friendship and that Jordan was there in spirit. Chelios had another Chicago Bulls great Dennis Rodman in attendance.

Michael Jordan left the Bulls in 1998. Chris Chelios continued to play for another 3 seasons before being traded to the Detroit Red Wings.

Chris Chelios and Michael Jordan, legends of Chicago, friends for life

Michael Jordan was always a Chicago Bulls player. But he never expected another would-be legend to play in the United Center during his time. Chelios came to Chicago as an established All-Star and winner of the James Norris Memorial Trophy. But in his first season with the Blackhawks, he led them to a Stanley Cup Finals. Chelios is a member of the 100 Greatest NHL Players of all time.

Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to 6 NBA titles during the years Chelios was leading the Blackhawks to multiple Stanley Cup playoffs. As captains of their respective teams, Chelios and Jordan enjoyed each other’s company. They used to scrimmage together whenever the chance presented itself.

With 7 All-Star appearances and 2 James Norris Memorial Trophies during his time in Chicago, Chris Chelios’ jersey is in the rafters of the Blackhawks. And he has his friend and NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan’s jersey beside him.

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