Scottie Pippen, born on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas, is a retired professional basketball player who is best known for his time playing alongside Michael Jordan on the six-time championship-winning Chicago Bulls teams. Pippen's career in basketball began in a less than conventional manner, as he did not receive any scholarships out of high school. However, he was determined to pursue his passion for the sport and walked on to the basketball team at the University of Central Arkansas.
Despite facing initial struggles, Pippen quickly proved his talent and dedication, becoming one of the standout players on the team by his sophomore year. His impressive skills on the court caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection by the Chicago Bulls in the 1987 NBA Draft. Pippen's arrival in the NBA marked the beginning of a successful career filled with numerous accolades and accomplishments.
Throughout his time in the NBA, Pippen was a key player for the Bulls, contributing to their dominance in the league during the 1990s. He was named to seven NBA All-Star games and received All-NBA First Team honors three times. Pippen's versatility as a player, with his ability to excel on both offense and defense, made him a vital asset to the Bulls' success.
One of the most iconic moments of Pippen's career came when he played alongside Michael Jordan on the historic 1992 Olympic Dream Team, which won the gold medal in Barcelona. His partnership with Jordan, both on the court and off, solidified their status as one of the greatest duos in basketball history.
In addition to his basketball achievements, Pippen's personal life has also been in the spotlight. He was married to Karen McCollum from 1988 to 1990 before tying the knot with Larsa Younan in 1997. The couple has eight children together, including Sophia, Taylor, Sierra, Preston, Tyler, Antron, Justin, and Scotty Jr. Tragically, Pippen's eldest son, Antron, passed away in April 2021, leaving a lasting impact on the family.
Over the years, Pippen's legacy in the NBA has been recognized and celebrated by fans and fellow players alike. His contributions to the sport, as well as his resilience and determination in the face of challenges, have inspired countless aspiring athletes. Throughout his career, Pippen was guided by the legendary coach Phil Jackson, who played a significant role in shaping his success on the court.
As a basketball player, Pippen's influence extended far beyond his individual accomplishments, serving as a role model for the next generation of athletes. His dedication to the game and his unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball. Despite the ups and downs he faced throughout his career and personal life, Pippen's legacy as a basketball icon remains firmly established in the Hall of Fame.