Jordan Fuels Speculation About Return to Bulls

Michael Jordan, estranged from the sport he adopted, may be returning to the game he once ruled.

Jordan practiced again with the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, the third consecutive day he appeared at team headquarters, fueling speculation that he’ll trade in his baseball spikes for a new pair of Air Jordans.

“As far as Michael and all the speculation in basketball, we just have to hang tight here and wait to see what goes on,” Bull Coach Phil Jackson said.

“He and I spoke about this possibility happening last September and October. It’s a reality . . . but it’s still not a reality. So we’re not pinning any hopes and we’re not trying to throw up a balloon or a kite that’s not ready to fly.”

After the Bulls’ two-hour practice, Jordan, 32, drove off without comment. And spokesmen for the Bulls, the Chicago White Sox and Jordan’s agent said no announcement was forthcoming.

Jordan shocked the sports world on Oct. 6, 1993, retiring with a 32.3-point career scoring average, the best in league history, after leading the Bulls to NBA titles in 1991, ’92 and ’93.

He provided another surprise a few months later when he announced he’d try to play baseball with the White Sox.

Jordan batted .202 in double A last season. The major league players’ strike left him in limbo this spring and he returned to Chicago.