What we would have missed if Michael Jordan stayed retired the 1st time

The world was almost robbed of Michael Jordan's greatness too soon.

With three straight NBA championships and three straight Finals MVP awards to his name, the Chicago Bulls star announced on Oct. 6, 1993 that he would be retiring from the sport that loved him so much. It was the saddest day.

Of course, he undid all this sadness in 1995 with two words: "I'm back."

So, what are a few things we would have missed if he stayed retired?

3 more championships and 3 more Finals MVP awards

The 'Flu Game'

Jordan was visibly ill during Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals between the Utah Jazz and the Bulls. Instead of wimping out, like a regular human would, he played for 44 minutes and finished with 38 points, seven rebounds, five assists, three steals, and a block.

Jordan's time with the Washington Wizards

This came after his second retirement, but he was a lot of fun.

G.O.A.T. vs. G.O.A.T

Jordan facing Kobe Bryant, a dream come true for basketball purists.

Muggsy Bogues trying to guard Jordan

It's just as funny as you'd expect it to be.

'Space Jam'

This is probably the most important point: it would have been a tragedy to lose "Space Jam."

Thanks for coming back, Jordan - because, frankly, your baseball career with the Double-A Birmingham Barons left much to be desired.

(Courtesy: MLB.com)