Bulls Ring of Honor: Inaugural Class Inducted in Soured Ceremony

Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman missed the Ring of Honor ceremony for various reasons.

The Bulls shared a pre-recorded video from Jordan, who didn't specify the reason for his absence but said he was said he couldn't make it while thanking the fans and organization.

Pippen's presence was limited to a listing of his accolades during the ceremony. The longtime Bulls forward has gone rogue from the organization after previously serving as an ambassador. Since ESPN's "The Last Dance" documentary aired, Pippen has attempted to discount Jordan's achievements on multiple occasions. Additionally, Jordan's son, Marcus, is dating Pippen's ex-wife, Larsa.

Dennis Rodman also missed the event but shared a pre-recorded video. "The Worm" said he badly wanted to be there but inclement weather conditions made flying into Chicago a challenge. Rodman, no stranger to the Windy City, is still beloved. He previously appeared at the United Center in September 2023 for AEW Collision.

Bulls From Far and Wide

While the aforementioned trio missed the Ring of Honor ceremony, the rest of the inductees were in attendance. Luc Longley made the trip from Australia and Toni Kukoc flew in from Croatia.

The Bulls' Friday opponent, the Golden State Warriors, had head coach Steve Kerr stay out for the halftime ceremony as he was part of the 1995-96 NBA championship team.

Legendary coach Phil Jackson received the loudest cheer of the night.

Bulls Fans Add Sour Note to Ring of Honor Ceremony

While it appeared the absences of Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman would be the ceremony's only downfall, an inexcusable occurrence resulted in a great deal of drama.

When former Bulls general manager Jerry Krause's name was announced, it was met by boos from the crowd. The jeers continued even as the United Center video board showed Krause's widow, Thelma, who was visibly distraught and brought to tears.

While Krause dismantled the '90s Bulls, he was also the architect of six championship teams, making him deserving of the honor the other inductees received. It was a low-class move by Bulls fans in attendance, one that Kerr called "absolutely shameful." Hopefully the Bulls organization can find a way to make it up to Mrs. Krause.

WATCH: Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor Ceremony for 2024 Class

With the inaugural class now inducted into the Bulls' Ring of Honor, who should be the next inductees?