That initial professional basketball contest for Michael Jordan occurred on October 26, 1984, when the Chicago Bulls faced the Washington Bullets. This marked the commencement of a career widely considered one of the greatest in the history of the sport. The event saw the rookie guard accumulate 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists, offering a glimpse of the exceptional talent to come.
The debut represents a pivotal moment, not only for Jordan himself, but also for the Chicago Bulls franchise and the NBA as a whole. It signaled the arrival of a transformative figure whose impact would resonate for decades. The contest initiated a period of unprecedented success for the Bulls, ultimately leading to six NBA championships and global recognition for both the team and its star player. Further, it contributed significantly to the increased popularity and commercialization of professional basketball worldwide.