'The Last Dance' episodes: A complete guide to watching ESPN's Michael Jordan documentary

Are you trying to catch up on "The Last Dance" before the latest episodes drop? We've got you covered.

ESPN's 10-part documentary series on Michael Jordan and the 1997-98 Bulls has become appointment viewing, especially with nearly all sports leagues around the world shut down. "The Last Dance" has already set records for the network, averaging nearly six million viewers across its first six episodes.

This massive project can be enjoyed by casual and diehard basketball fans alike. Regardless of where you stand on the NBA spectrum, the viewing guide below can be used as a table of contents for "The Last Dance" in case you are just starting the series or want to revisit a favorite moment. 

'The Last Dance' viewing guide

During the 1997-98 NBA season, a film crew was given access to follow the Bulls as they chased a second three-peat. "The Last Dance" reveals how Jordan and the Bulls captured their sixth NBA championship — and details all of the drama that surrounded one of the greatest dynasties in sports history.

Episode 1

Before arriving as "Air Jordan," a scrawny kid named Mike Jordan rises to prominence at North Carolina before being selected No. 3 overall by the Bulls in the 1984 NBA Draft. Jordan describes the challenges of being the new guy, including avoiding Chicago's "traveling cocaine circus."

Ahead of Jordan's final season with the Bulls, the team makes a preseason trip to Paris. There is plenty of tension between players and general manager Jerry Krause.

Episode 2

Scottie Pippen takes an unusual path to the NBA, growing (literally) into a star at Central Arkansas. Pippen earns the trust of Jordan and finds the perfect role as an elite wing defender and playmaker, but his frustration with management over his contract leads to a trade demand in 1997.

Pippen and Krause are ... not on the same page.

Episode 3

Yep, the Dennis Rodman episode. The eccentric forward shows his worth on the floor while stirring up drama away from it, including a wild midseason trip to Las Vegas.

The Bulls struggle to push past the "Bad Boy" Pistons, losing to Detroit in the 1988, 1989 and 1990 playoffs. There is no love lost between the Eastern Conference rivals.

Episode 4

Phil Jackson brings a new philosophy to the Bulls after replacing Doug Collins. He manages to not only connect on a deep level with his players, but also install the Triangle Offense, a key turning point in Chicago's dynasty.

The Bulls finally eliminate the Pistons in the 1991 Eastern Conference finals, but controversy ensues when Detroit players walk off the floor before the end of regulation without engaging in the customary postgame handshakes.

Episode 5

A young Lakers guard named Kobe Bryant makes a big impression at the 1998 NBA All-Star Game and forges a close bond with Jordan. 

The growing Jordan Brand and "Dream Team" experience turn MJ into a global icon, but his reputation takes a hit after he refuses to publicly endorse U.S. Senate hopeful Harvey Gantt.

Episode 6

Sam Smith's book "The Jordan Rules" exposes the darker side of Jordan's competitiveness, and questions arise about whether he has a serious gambling problem.

Attempting to complete the first three-peat and dealing with the pitfalls of fame leave Jordan increasingly exhausted and isolated.

Episodes 7 and 8

These episodes will premiere Sunday, May 10.

Episodes 9 and 10

These episodes will premiere Sunday, May 17.

'The Last Dance' TV schedule

Two new episodes of "The Last Dance" will air on ESPN (uncensored) and ESPN2 (edited for language) each Sunday through May 17. The two previous parts of the documentary series can be watched before the new episodes premiere.

Netflix will roll out episodes in similar fashion for international viewers with two new parts hitting the streaming service following the live showings in the U.S.

ESPN and ESPN2 (United States)

Netflix (International)

'The Last Dance' trailer