Walk it off — Best performances in wake of injury, illness

You know a performance is incredible when people refer to it in capital letters. That’s how you know Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game,” which occurred 25 years ago on this date, is the stuff of legends. Jordan’s efforts while sick against the Utah Jazz is one of the most memorable moments of his career — and considering this is MJ we’re talking about, that’s saying something. The Flu Game’s anniversary reminded us of a number of other amazing performances by athletes who had every excuse to sit out — but delivered greatness instead.

Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls, June 11, 1997, at Utah Jazz

Injury: Jordan contracted either food poisoning or a stomach virus between Game 4 and Game 5 of the NBA Finals, leaving the superstar sick and dehydrated entering the crucial fifth game of a series that was tied 2-2. Jordan was understandably sluggish as Game 5 started.

Was he removed from the game? Jordan’s sluggishness allowed the Jazz, who had won the previous two games of the series, to jump on the Bulls early at home, taking a 16-point lead. He rebounded a bit to bring the Bulls within range, but took a seat again in the third quarter due to fatigue.

Performance upon returning: Jordan came back in the game with Chicago down eight and put the Bulls on his back, scoring 15 points in the fourth quarter, including a dagger 3-pointer with 25 seconds left to put the Bulls up to stay in a 90-88 win. Jordan, who leaned on Scottie Pippen in the waning seconds, scored 38 points and added seven rebounds and five assists. The Bulls clinched the title the next game.

Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal, March 31, 2010, vs. Barcelona

Injury: Fabregas was already hobbled going into the Gunners’ UEFA Champions League first leg match with…