James Stern co-directed “Michael Jordan …

James Stern co-directed “Michael Jordan to the Max,” which was released in May 2000. Narrated by Lawrence Fishburne, the IMAX documentary details His Airness’ greatness as the Bulls dynasty closed with their sixth championship. In a recent interview with The Athletic, NBA Entertainment producer Andy Thompson revealed that one reason for the 22-year delay for the release of ESPN’s “The Last Dance” was because of Stern’s and Don Kempf’s IMAX film. Jordan coming out of retirement to play for the Wizards also played a role. And NBA commissioner Adam Silver, then the head of NBA Entertainment, told ESPN that Jordan also controlled when Thompson’s footage could see the light of day. Regardless, Stern’s film came first.