Scottie Pippen Explains Who’s Better Between Him And LeBron James
Scottie Pippen Explains Who's Better Between Him And LeBron James
Scottie Pippen, a six-time NBA champion, is often mentioned in discussions about basketball greatness. He is known for his contributions to the Chicago Bulls alongside Michael Jordan, particularly during the iconic era documented in “The Last Dance.” Pippen’s career averages reflect his well-rounded skills, including impressive assists and rebounds.
LeBron James is a contemporary player frequently compared to legends like Pippen. With multiple championships and MVP awards, he consistently ranks among the top in NBA history. James has achieved remarkable milestones, including scoring titles and triple-doubles, further solidifying his place in the conversation surrounding the greatest player of all time (GOAT).
Both players exemplify excellence in basketball, with their statistics speaking to their impact on the game. Pippen’s defensive prowess is highlighted by his steals, while LeBron’s versatility is reflected in his player efficiency rating and scoring ability. These accomplishments contribute to the ongoing debate about who deserves the title of the greatest in basketball history.
Recently, Pippen did an interview where he claimed to be a better player than James.
“Would you put yourself ahead of LeBron as a team standpoint?” the reporter asked him.
“My success as a team is more successful than LeBron, I got six rings,” he replied.
Above all else, Pippen believes that basketball is a team sport and the idea of a GOAT is moot.
“But again, team sports to me there’s no GOAT. There’s great teams, but as an individual you got to go to individual sports,” he said.
Scottie Pippen’s NBA Career: A Legacy of Championships and Defensive Excellence
Scottie Pippen’s NBA career stands as a testament to his exceptional skills and impact on professional basketball. As one of the greatest small forwards in league history, Pippen left an indelible mark during his 17 seasons in the NBA.
Pippen’s remarkable achievements include six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls, seven All-Star selections, and induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. His versatile playing style and defensive prowess made him an integral part of the Bulls’ dynasty alongside Michael Jordan in the 1990s.
Throughout his career, Pippen showcased his all-around abilities, averaging 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. He also played for the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers, further cementing his legacy as one of the most well-rounded players in NBA history.
Early Life and College Career
Scottie Pippen’s journey to NBA stardom began in his hometown of Hamburg, Arkansas. His college years at the University of Central Arkansas laid the foundation for his professional basketball career.
Hamburg, Arkansas and Central Arkansas
Scottie Pippen was born on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas. The youngest of 12 children, Pippen grew up in a modest household. He attended Hamburg High School, where he played basketball but was not heavily recruited by college scouts.
Pippen enrolled at the University of Central Arkansas, a small NAIA school. Initially, he served as the team manager but quickly proved his worth on the court. Over his four years at Central Arkansas, Pippen’s height increased from 6’1″ to 6’8″.
His college career was marked by steady improvement. Pippen averaged 23.6 points, 10 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game in his senior year. His exceptional performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection in the 1987 NBA Draft.
Professional Career Overview
Scottie Pippen’s NBA career spanned 17 seasons, during which he established himself as one of the greatest small forwards in league history. He won six championships and earned seven All-Star selections.
Chicago Bulls Era
Pippen joined the Chicago Bulls in 1987 after being drafted fifth overall by the Seattle SuperSonics and immediately traded. He quickly formed a formidable partnership with Michael Jordan, becoming a key component of the Bulls’ dynasty.
From 1991 to 1998, Pippen helped lead the Bulls to six NBA championships. He earned seven consecutive All-Star selections from 1990 to 1997 and was named to the All-NBA First Team three times.
Pippen’s defensive prowess was legendary. He made the NBA All-Defensive First Team eight times between 1992 and 2000. In 1994, with Jordan retired, Pippen finished third in MVP voting and led the Bulls to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers Tenures
After 11 seasons with the Bulls, Pippen was traded to the Houston Rockets in 1998. He spent one season there, averaging 14.5 points per game and helping the team reach the playoffs.
In 1999, Pippen joined the Portland Trail Blazers. He played four seasons in Portland, reaching the Western Conference Finals in 2000. During his time with the Blazers, Pippen continued to showcase his all-around skills, contributing in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.
Pippen returned to the Bulls for the 2003-04 season before retiring. He finished his career with averages of 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
