The 1999–2000 season officially began! Discussion among basketball fans across the United States reached its peak on the very day the schedule was announced.
Countless people eagerly awaited the chance to witness this historic matchup.
What the outside world cared about most was the reaction of Chicago fans.
Throughout NBA history, when stars switched teams, they would usually be met with boos and rejection from their former team's fans.
But Jordan's departure was completely different.
Fans throughout Chicago felt no resentment, no dissatisfaction—only relief and heartfelt blessings.
Jordan had brought this city endless glory and brilliance.
Six championship trophies and countless classic moments had long since been etched into Chicago's very bloodline.
Everyone understood that Jordan had already given everything. He owed nothing more.
Even if he headed to New York in his later years to chase a new legend, Windy City fans remained grateful.
But acceptance did not mean indifference, and blessings did not mean there would be no ripples.
When the former absolute core of the Bulls stood on the United Center court wearing an opponent's jersey—
The complicated feeling of how everything had changed was destined to engulf the entire arena.
Nostalgia, emotion, anticipation, reluctance—countless feelings intertwined.
It was precisely because of that overwhelming atmosphere that this season opener eclipsed every other matchup in hype.
Within the Bulls, the entire team was also preparing for the opener with everything they had.
After reshaping their roster during the offseason, the current Bulls had long shed the look of the old Dynasty.
Two powerhouse stars, Karl Malone and Sam Cassell, had joined the team in commanding fashion.
Paired with the old core of Ron Harper and Luc Longley, their strength still ranked among the best in the Eastern Conference.
On the bench, The Gorilla Ewing and veteran Kukoc held