Steve Kerr
The specialist who delivered two of the most iconic shots in Bulls history.
Steve Kerr joined the Chicago Bulls in 1993 as a calculated addition to a championship-contending roster, serving as the ultimate three-point specialist. Over five seasons (1993–1998), he operated primarily off the bench, providing critical spacing for Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen within Phil Jackson's triangle offense. While not a starter, his impact was undeniable during the franchise's final championship runs. Kerr is immortalized in Bulls lore for hitting two of the most famous shots in NBA history: a 17-foot jumper to win Game 6 of the 1997 Finals and another in Game 6 of the 1998 Finals against the Utah Jazz, securing back-to-back titles.
- Tenure with Chicago Bulls
- 1993–1998
- Championships Won (as player)
- 2 (1996, 1997, 1998)
- Notable Achievement
- Game-winning shot in Game 6 of the 1997 NBA Finals; Pass to Jordan for crucial t
- Franchise Records Held
- Single-season three-point percentage (.524, 1994–95); Career three-point percent
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Kerr's time with Chicago began when he signed as a free agent after being waived by Phoenix. He quickly adapted to the role of a bench scorer and floor spacer, averaging 8.2 points per game on 50.7% shooting during his tenure. His efficiency was remarkable; he set franchise records for both single-season (.524 in 1994–95) and career three-point field goal percentage (.479). Kerr thrived when the stakes were highest, particularly against the Utah Jazz in the Finals. In 1997, with the score tied at 86 in Game 6, he caught a pass from Jordan and sank a 17-foot jump shot to secure the title. He also won the Three-Point Contest at the 1997 NBA All-Star Weekend that same year.
In Their Own Story
The defining moment of Kerr's Bulls career arrived in the final minute of Game 2 of the 1998 NBA Finals against Utah. With the series tied and the clock winding down, Kerr missed a three-pointer but grabbed his own rebound to keep the possession alive. He then made a crucial pass to Michael Jordan, who hit a three-point play that put the Bulls in the lead for good, helping tie the series at one game apiece before Chicago eventually won the title in six games. This sequence highlighted Kerr's value beyond just shooting: his ability to stay composed and make the right play under extreme pressure was instrumental in the team's success.
Reader's Guide
During the 1995–96 season, Kerr played a supporting role as the Bulls set a then-NBA record of 72–10. He helped the team defeat the Seattle SuperSonics in the Finals that year. The following two seasons saw the Bulls log a 69–13 record and reach the Finals again in 1998. Kerr's consistency allowed the stars to dominate, as he held defenses honest from deep. His departure after the 2003 season marked the end of an era for players who won four straight titles with two different teams in consecutive seasons (a feat matched later by Patrick McCaw). As of his retirement, Kerr remained the league's all-time leader in career three-point shooting percentage.
Did You Know?
- Kerr won the Three-Point Contest at the 1997 NBA All-Star Weekend.
- During his Bulls tenure, Kerr averaged 8.2 points per game on 50.7% shooting.
- In Game 6 of the 1997 Finals, Kerr made a 17-foot jump shot to win the championship with the score tied at 86.
- Kerr set the Bulls' franchise record for career three-point field goal percentage (.479) while playing in Chicago.
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