Scottie Pippen: A Basketball Legend
Scottie Maurice Pippen was born on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas. Growing up in a small town, Pippen developed a passion for basketball early on.1
Despite his love for the game, his physical stature posed a challenge. Upon graduating from Hamburg High School, Pippen stood just 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters), which was relatively short for a future basketball star.
Table of Contents
High School Basketball
During his high school years, Pippen played for the Hamburg Lions. Although he was not heavily recruited due to his height and relatively slight build, his determination and skill on the court were evident. Pippen’s high school career, while not particularly distinguished in terms of accolades, set the foundation for his future in basketball.
College Career and Growth Spurt
Pippen attended the University of Central Arkansas, where he played college basketball for the Bears. It was during his time at Central Arkansas that Pippen experienced a significant growth spurt, eventually reaching 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters).
This physical transformation, combined with his hard work and dedication, allowed Pippen to excel in college basketball.
Rise to Prominence
At Central Arkansas, Pippen’s game improved dramatically. He developed a reputation for his versatility, athleticism, and defensive prowess. His standout performances caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was eventually selected by the Seattle SuperSonics with the fifth overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft.
Pippen was subsequently traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he would become an integral part of one of the most successful teams in NBA history.
NBA Career with the Chicago Bulls
Pippen joined the Chicago Bulls in 1987, where he teamed up with Michael Jordan. The early years were a period of growth and development for both Pippen and the Bulls.2
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Under the guidance of head coach Phil Jackson, the Bulls began to build a team that emphasized strong defense, fast breaks, and a versatile offense.
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Professional Career
Scottie Pippen’s professional career is marked by his remarkable contributions to the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty and his status as one of the NBA’s greatest players. His journey from a relatively unknown college player to a six-time NBA champion is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance.3
The 1987 NBA Draft and Trade to the Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls had been closely monitoring Scottie Pippen leading up to the 1987 NBA Draft. Recognizing his potential, they orchestrated a trade with the Seattle SuperSonics to acquire him.
Pippen was selected fifth overall by the SuperSonics but was quickly traded to the Bulls in exchange for the eighth pick, Olden Polynice, and future draft pick options. This strategic move proved to be a pivotal moment for the Bulls, setting the stage for their future success.
Early Years with the Bulls
Pippen joined a Chicago Bulls team that was on the rise, led by the dynamic Michael Jordan. During his early years with the Bulls, Pippen worked tirelessly to develop his skills and adjust to the demands of the NBA.
Under the tutelage of head coach Phil Jackson, Pippen’s game flourished. He became known for his versatility, athleticism, and defensive prowess, which complemented Jordan’s scoring abilities perfectly.
Ascending to Stardom
Pippen’s breakout season came in 1990-91, when he earned his first All-Star selection. This season marked the beginning of the Bulls’ dominance in the NBA. Pippen’s ability to guard multiple positions, his excellent court vision, and his knack for making crucial plays on both ends of the floor made him an indispensable part of the team.
The First Three-Peat (1991–1993)
- The early 1990s were defined by the Bulls’ first three-peat, winning NBA championships in 1991, 1992, and 1993. Pippen’s all-around game was a key factor in the Bulls’ success.
- His defensive skills, particularly his ability to shut down the opposition’s best players, were instrumental in the team’s victories.
- Pippen’s contributions went beyond defense, as he also played a significant role in the Bulls’ offensive schemes, often acting as a point forward.
- In October 1993, Michael Jordan announced his first retirement from basketball, leaving a significant void in the Bulls’ lineup.
- During Jordan’s absence, Pippen stepped up as the team’s leader. In the 1993-94 season, Pippen had one of his best individual campaigns, leading the Bulls to 55 wins and earning the NBA All-Star Game MVP.
- Despite his efforts, the Bulls fell short of winning the championship, but Pippen’s performance solidified his status as one of the league’s elite players.
That feeling when @NBA basketball is back. #TBT pic.twitter.com/6hO7AJHlAx
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) October 18, 2018
Family Background and Early Life
Scottie Pippen was born on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas, to Preston and Ethel Pippen. Growing up in a large family, Pippen was the youngest of 11 children. Both his parents were notably tall, and their height genetics were passed down to their children, with Scottie eventually becoming the tallest among his siblings.
Preston Pippen worked as a paper mill laborer, a physically demanding job that he held until he suffered a stroke, which left him paralyzed on his right side and unable to walk. Despite the financial and emotional challenges, Ethel Pippen managed to keep the family together and supported her children’s education and athletic pursuits.
Education and High School
The Pippen family’s financial struggles made it difficult for Preston and Ethel to send their children to high school, but they prioritized their education as much as possible.
Scottie attended Hamburg High School, where he played basketball for the Hamburg Lions. Though his high school career did not garner significant attention from major colleges, Pippen’s determination and talent were evident.
Professional Career
Scottie Pippen’s journey to NBA stardom began when he was selected fifth overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1987 NBA Draft and immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls. This trade proved to be a pivotal moment for both Pippen and the Bulls, as he would go on to become a key figure in one of the most successful dynasties in NBA history.
Chicago Bulls Dynasty
Pippen’s career with the Bulls was marked by six NBA championships (1991–93, 1996–98). His versatility, defensive prowess, and ability to play multiple positions made him an indispensable part of the team.
Pippen, alongside Michael Jordan, formed one of the most formidable duos in basketball history, leading the Bulls to two three-peats and solidifying their dominance in the league.
Later Career and Retirement
After leaving the Bulls, Pippen played for the Houston Rockets and the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continued to contribute at a high level. He eventually returned to the Bulls for a final season before retiring in 2004.
Throughout his career, Pippen earned numerous accolades, including seven NBA All-Star selections and eight NBA All-Defensive First Team honors.
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Scottie Pippen’s Net Worth
Scottie Pippen, a retired American professional basketball player, has amassed a net worth of approximately $20 million. Known for his exceptional career and contributions to the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty, Pippen’s financial journey has been a mix of significant earnings and notable underpayments relative to his on-court contributions.
NBA Career Earnings
Pippen played 17 seasons in the NBA, during which he earned a total of $109 million in salary alone. Despite these substantial earnings, Pippen is often cited as one of the most underpaid NBA players of all time, especially considering his crucial role in the Bulls’ six championships during the 1990s.
The Controversial Contract
The perception of Pippen being underpaid stems from a contract he signed ahead of the 1991 season. He agreed to a 7-year, $18 million contract extension, a deal that was considered modest even at the time.
This contract was negotiated in an era before the NBA experienced its explosive growth in revenue, and Pippen sought financial security for his family. As the league’s revenue and player salaries surged in the subsequent years, Pippen’s contract became increasingly unfavorable.
Financial Struggles and Mismanagement
In addition to his modest NBA contract, Pippen faced several financial challenges post-retirement. Reports of financial mismanagement and unfortunate investment decisions further impacted his net worth.
Despite earning over $100 million in salary and millions more through endorsements, Pippen encountered financial difficulties that included a lawsuit against his former financial advisor for mismanaging his money and leading him into bad investments.
Marriages and Relationships
Scottie Pippen’s personal life has been as eventful and publicized as his professional career. He has been married twice and has a total of seven children from different relationships.
Karen McCollum
Pippen’s first marriage was to Karen McCollum. The couple married in 1988 and had a son named Antron, born in 1987. Unfortunately, their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 1990.
Antron Pippen, Pippen’s eldest child, shared his father’s passion for basketball but faced health challenges that affected his athletic career. Tragically, Antron passed away in April 2021 at the age of 33.
Larsa Younan (Larsa Pippen)
In 1997, Pippen married Larsa Younan, who later became known as Larsa Pippen. Larsa gained fame as a star of the reality TV show “Real Housewives of Miami.” Together, they had four children: Scotty Jr. (born 2000), Preston (born 2002), Justin (born 2005), and Sophia (born 2008).
Larsa and Scottie’s marriage was often in the public eye, not only due to their high-profile status but also because of their appearances in the media and social events. Despite their long marriage, the couple faced numerous challenges and eventually divorced in 2021. Larsa has continued to maintain a public presence through her reality TV career and social media.
Children
Antron, born in 1987, was Scottie Pippen’s first child with Karen McCollum. Antron had a deep interest in basketball and played at the collegiate level. However, he struggled with chronic asthma, which hampered his ability to reach the professional level. Antron’s untimely death in 2021 was a significant loss for the Pippen family.
Scotty Jr., Preston, Justin, and Sophia
Pippen’s four children with Larsa Pippen have also garnered public attention, particularly Scotty Jr., who has followed in his father’s footsteps by pursuing a career in basketball. Scotty Jr. has shown promise as a player, playing for Vanderbilt University and entering the NBA draft.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Scottie Pippen and what is his background?
Ans: Scottie Pippen is a retired American professional basketball player best known for his time with the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. Born on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas, Pippen played college basketball at the University of Central Arkansas before being drafted into the NBA.
He is widely regarded as one of the greatest small forwards of all time and was instrumental in the Bulls’ six NBA championships during the 1990s.
2. What are some key achievements in Scottie Pippen’s basketball career?
Ans: Scottie Pippen’s career is filled with notable achievements, including six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls (1991-1993, 1996-1998). He was a seven-time NBA All-Star and was named to the All-NBA First Team three times.
Pippen was also known for his defensive prowess, earning ten NBA All-Defensive Team selections. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame twice, once for his individual career and once as a member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic “Dream Team.”
3. What is Scottie Pippen’s family background?
Ans: Scottie Pippen was born to Ethel and Preston Pippen and is the youngest of 12 siblings. He has been married twice; first to Karen McCollum (1988-1990) with whom he has a son, Antron.
He later married Larsa Younan in 1997, and they have four children together: Scotty Jr., Preston, Justin, and Sophia. Pippen and Larsa divorced in 2021. His son, Scotty Pippen Jr., is also a professional basketball player.
4. What is Scottie Pippen’s net worth?
Ans: As of 2024, Scottie Pippen’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. His wealth comes from his successful NBA career, endorsements, and various business ventures.
Despite earning substantial salaries during his playing days, Pippen faced financial challenges post-retirement but has managed to maintain a solid net worth through smart investments and continued public engagements.
5. What has Scottie Pippen done since retiring from professional basketball?
Ans: Since retiring from professional basketball, Scottie Pippen has remained active in various capacities. He has worked as a basketball analyst and commentator, appearing on sports networks like ESPN.
Pippen has also been involved in several business ventures, including real estate and investments in tech companies. Additionally, he frequently participates in NBA-related events, charity work, and has authored a memoir titled “Unguarded,” where he shares his life and career experiences.
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