The 1997 NBA Finals between the Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz remains one of the most thrilling in history. But what many fans might not know is the legendary Michael Jordan actually battled a debilitating illness during that series.
The “Flu Game,” as it became known, saw Jordan battling severe food poisoning throughout Game 5. Despite feeling miserable, he defied medical advice and powered through the game, leading the Bulls to victory.
While the common narrative suggests Jordan was battling the flu, new evidence suggests that might not be entirely accurate. A 2020 ESPN investigation revealed that Jordan’s symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea, are more consistent with food poisoning than the flu.
The Evidence Supporting Food Poisoning:
- Medical records from the game show no evidence of influenza infection.
- Teammates who came into contact with Jordan during the game did not experience flu-like symptoms.
- Jordan himself has expressed skepticism about the “flu game” story, stating he felt better later that night.
Possible Causes of Food Poisoning:
The investigation identified potential sources of food poisoning:
- The food at the hotel where the team was staying had experienced previous complaints.
- The team’s pre-game meal was catered, and details of the food preparation were not available.
The Aftermath:
The food poisoning incident led to increased awareness of the importance of food safety in professional sports. The NBA implemented stricter guidelines for food handling and storage in arenas.
Conclusion:
While the “Flu Game” remains a legendary tale, the available evidence suggests that Michael Jordan’s incredible performance was fueled not by a heroic battle against the flu, but by the resilience and determination to overcome food poisoning.
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