27 Years Ago Michael Jordan Dropped 49 Points While Wearing #12

While couples everywhere were celebrating Valentine’s Day 1990, Michael Jordan was wondering where his jersey was.

Prior to taking to floor for the Chicago Bulls’ match with the Orlando Magic, Jordan discovered his #23 road jersey missing. Presumed stolen, Bulls equipment manager John Ligmanowski had to track down a replacement, which wasn’t readily available in Orlando just moments before tip-off. Ligmanowski even borrowed a Jordan replica jersey from a fan but it was simply too small for Jordan to wear.

Finally, a nameless #12 jersey was fished out of the Bulls’ traveling gear, which enabled Jordan to take the floor and play. Whether fueled by anger from his stolen jersey or the lackluster Magic defense, Jordan reeled off a stellar stat line of 49 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and one block. Orlando prevailed, 135-129, but the memory of this game is all about the one and only time Michael Jordan wore #12.

You can purchase the Mitchell & Ness #12 Jordan jersey today.