Michael Jordan’s Longtime NBA Rival Makes Controversial Chicago Bulls Statement

Isiah Thomas defends Jerry Krause's crucial role in the Chicago Bulls' dynasty amid ongoing debates over his legacy.

Bulls guard Michael Jordan and Suns forward Charles Barkley face off in the 1993 NBA Finals. / Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Jerry Krause remains a polarizing figure in sports history. As general manager of the Chicago Bulls general manager from 1985 to 2003, he played a vital role in assembling the team that dominated the NBA during the 1990s.

Despite his contributions, Krause is often remembered as Michael Jordan's adversary, though NBA legend and Jordan's rival, Isiah Thomas, insists the Bulls' success hinged on Krause's leadership.

Thomas prefaced his statement by describing it as bold, but stated the Bulls would "never win a championship" without Krause.

This is a bold statement coming: The Chicago Bulls never win a Championship without Jerry Krause. Let it be known. https://t.co/0k2YXJQAic

— Isiah Thomas (@IsiahThomas) August 22, 2024

Krause's tenure laid the foundation for the Bulls' dominance after Jordan had been drafted. Under his guidance, the team secured six NBA championships, winning three consecutive titles twice—from 1991 to 1993 and 1996 to 1998.

However, Krause's legacy is complex. The documentary The Last Dance portrays him as a central figure in the breakup of the Bulls' championship team, attributing much of the blame to his decisions.

Critics, however, often note that the Bulls also struggled to win without Jordan, particularly during his brief retirement in 1994 and 1995, despite retaining much of their championship roster.

I can argue that Jerry Krause, in Basketball, was the Best general manager in Chicago's sports history, as well as in football, Baseball, Hockey, etc. https://t.co/Tqpy7rBk5T

— Isiah Thomas (@IsiahThomas) August 22, 2024

The relationship between Krause and Jordan was fraught with tension. As Jordan's influence grew, clashes with Krause and head coach Phil Jackson became more frequent. Many have seemingly not forgiven Krause for the end of the group that achieved such historic results.

Jordan remains highly celebrated as one of basketball's greatest players, although many have increasingly described LeBron James as the greatest player in history. Krause was instrumental in building the team’s championship-winning rosters, yet his later decisions contributed to the dynasty's downfall, making his legacy a controversial one.

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