Michael Jordan's greatness, especially during their first three-peat in the early 1990s, was so overpowering that it made everyone else on the Chicago Bulls team almost invisible. In fact, the media called the team "Michael Jordan and the Jordanaires." Still, Horace Grant was more than just a sidekick; he played a critical role in their first three championships, defending opponents' top forwards and rebounding with intensity.
In honor of Horace's birthday on July 4, let's take a look back at some of his best performances.
30 points and 20 rebounds vs. the Indiana Pacers
The former Clemson star was en fuego against the Pacers in a game played a day after Christmas in 1992. Grant was in no mood to share holiday cheer with the Pacers as he dominated them to the tune of 30 points and 20 rebounds, including 11 offensive boards. He also had an assist, a steal, and two blocks. More impressive was the fact that he made all but four of his 16 shots all game long.
31 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 blocks vs. the Boston Celtics
With Jordan retiring for the first time, the stage was clear for some of the Bulls to take center stage. One of those players was Grant, and one of his best games during his lone All-Star season came on December 15, 1993, when he tallied 31 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal, and 4 blocks against the Boston Celtics.
Grant spent seven seasons in Chicago, averaging 12.6 points, 8.6 boards, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, before leaving the Bulls for the Orlando Magic in 1994. After winning three NBA titles with Chicago, Grant claimed a fourth—this time with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2001.
While Horace isn't often mentioned when conversations about the best Bulls of all time come up, he quietly carved out a spot in the franchise's history. He was an integral part of the Bulls and one of the most prolific rebounders of his generation. His contributions to Chicago basketball will never be forgotten.
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