Orlando Woolridge
The high-flying dunker who led the Bulls in scoring before Michael Jordan.
Orlando Vernada Woolridge was an American professional basketball player who played for the Chicago Bulls from 1981 to 1986. Selected sixth overall in the 1981 NBA draft, Woolridge was known for his scoring ability, especially on slam dunks. He played college basketball for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, where he averaged 10.6 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting just under 60% from the field. During the 1984–85 season, Woolridge averaged 22.9 points per game and combined with rookie teammate Michael Jordan to average over 51 points per game. He led the Chicago Bulls in scoring in 1986 and was the last player to lead in scoring before Jordan took over.
- Role
- Small Forward / Shooting Guard
- Jersey Number
- 30
- Playing Style
- Mid-range specialist, high-volume scorer
- Status
- Retired
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Woolridge made his NBA debut on November 7, 1981, and was named NBA Player of the Week on December 9, 1984. At 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) tall and weighing 215 lb (98 kg), he was one of the most gifted dunkers in professional basketball and one of the original alley-oop artists. He competed in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1984 and 1985, and was the first to complete what would be called the eastbay funk dunk in 1984, surpassing the scores of Clyde Drexler and Michael Cooper. Prior to the Jordan era, Woolridge was one of the Chicago Bulls' marquee players along with Hall of Famer Artis Gilmore, Reggie Theus, and David Greenwood. While unstoppable on the open court, his one-dimensional play did not complement Jordan's skills. He moved on to sign with the New Jersey Nets as a veteran free-agent on October 2, 1986.
In Their Own Story
During the 1984–85 season, Woolridge and rookie Michael Jordan combined to average over 51 points per game, a formidable scoring duo that electrified Chicago Stadium. Woolridge's 22.9 points per game that season made him a constant threat alongside the future legend. In 1986, he led the Bulls in scoring, becoming the last player to do so before Jordan took over that role for years to come. His ability to finish above the rim made him a fan favorite, and his participation in the 1984 and 1985 Slam Dunk Contests showcased his athleticism on a national stage. Though the Bulls struggled to make deep playoff runs during his tenure, Woolridge's individual brilliance provided a bright spot for the franchise during a transitional period.
Did You Know?
- Woolridge was selected sixth overall in the 1981 NBA draft by the Chicago Bulls.
- He was named NBA Player of the Week on December 9, 1984.
- Woolridge was the first to complete what would be called the eastbay funk dunk in the 1984 Slam Dunk Contest.
- He led the Chicago Bulls in scoring in 1986, the last player to do so before Michael Jordan.
- Woolridge combined with rookie Michael Jordan to average over 51 points per game during the 1984–85 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Orlando Woolridge?
He served as a defining scorer for the Chicago Bulls during their gritty late 1980s transitional period. Wearing jersey number 30, he operated primarily as a small forward and shooting guard before the franchise's championship era began.
What was Orlando Woolridge's role on the court?
He functioned as a primary offensive engine who utilized high-volume scoring to keep the team competitive during difficult years. His specialty involved a fluid mid-range jumper that allowed him to generate points effortlessly against opponents.
Why is Orlando Woolridge important to Bulls history?
His tenure provided the essential scoring stability needed for the Bulls to establish themselves as serious Eastern Conference contenders. Though often overshadowed by later success, his contributions kept the franchise viable before Michael Jordan fully transformed the team.
How does Orlando Woolridge's story end?
He is currently retired after concluding his tenure with the franchise in 1989. Fans remember him as the skilled scorer who kept the Bulls competitive before the dynasty began.
More in Legendary Players
Related in Chicago Bulls
Links follow this subject's own source article.
Elsewhere in the Chicago Bulls universe
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record