Narratives surrounding the NBA have often been dominated by the story of famous duos. Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant are often credited as the most talented one-two punch of all time. However, in terms of success as a duo, none are likely to compare to Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.
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Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen were the duo that delivered six championships to the Chicago Bulls. Two three-peats and a 6-0 NBA Finals record are proof of their excellence in the league.
However, there was always an asterisk surrounding their individual accomplishments. This pertained to the fact that neither Scottie nor MJ won a league title without each other. And when it comes to NBA narratives, this has been used by both sides of the spectrum – as a slight to Michael Jordan and as a praise for Scottie Pippen.
Floyd Mayweather is another one who is of the opinion that this fact strengthens the case for Pippen’s greatness. And he said so in Pippen’s presence to make it known.
Floyd Mayweather stated that Michael Jordan wouldn’t have his rings without Scottie Pippen
At a promotional event associated with the movie, Fear, Scottie Pippen and Floyd Mayweather had been involved in a panel discussion. It was here that Mayweather lauded Pippen in his very presence.
Mayweather called Pippen “a hell of a player” and reminded the audience of the fact that Michael Jordan didn’t win any rings without Scottie Pippen.
“Hell of a player. Remember, Michael Jordan had no rings if it wasn’t for Scottie” remarked the former professional boxer. Factually, the statement isn’t incorrect. But this is a statement that will stoke the fires of the debate once again.
His Airness is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time. However, the anti-Jordan camp has constantly relied on the fact that MJ’s rings were possible because of Scottie Pippen’s presence on the team. And there is a solid case to be made for Pippen as one of the greatest co-stars of all time too.
However, to rule one as dependent on the other would be disrespectful to both Jordan and Pippen. Both of them were superstars in their own right and cemented their own legacies in the league.
Michael Jordan took the Bulls to the Playoffs in his first three seasons in the league.
While Scottie Pippen being drafted in 1987 is widely regarded as a turning point for MJ and the Bulls, merely putting it at that can be misleading. Jordan had led the Bulls to the Playoffs in each of his first three seasons.
The Bulls were clearly a team on the rise and had found their franchise cornerstone. Jordan even averaged a mind-boggling 37.1 points per game the season prior to drafting Scottie.
Pippen’s addition further strengthened the team for sure. But there is no denying that Michael Jordan was headed for superstardom and that he was ready to carry the Bulls on his back.
The Pippen-Jordan debate is likely to go on forever. However, both individual talents are worthy of the legendary status they have carved for themselves. And there is no need to mumble their names under the same breath at all times.
Also read: Michael Jordan Said Scottie Pippen and Him Bonded over Quarrels With Dennis Rodman and the Bad Boy Pistons
