The bad blood between the Detroit Pistons and the Chicago Bulls in the 1980s and early 90s needs no introduction. The cutthroat rivalry between the franchises laid the foundation for the eminence of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and the Chicago Bulls.
Advertisement
Led by Isiah Thomas, the Detroit Pistons made a reputation for themselves in the physically defensive era of the 1980s, for their aggression and unsportsmanlike conduct. Thus earning them the nickname: ‘Bad Boy Pistons’.
Their strenuous and imposing nature eventually made its way to opposing franchises who succumbed under pressure. This enabled them to capture two NBA championships in 1989 and 1990. And many believed they were on the verge of winning more.
Until Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and the Chicago Bulls decided to stand up to them. This ended the Pistons’ tyranny, and for that reason specifically, Jordan holds a soft spot for a former teammate, Pippen.
Michael Jordan lauds the bond between Scottie Pippen and himself.
In 2020, Michael Jordan released his highly anticipated documentary, ‘The Last Dance’ which highlighted his Chicago Bulls career, and capped off with his sixth championship.
And although the documentary showcases Jordan’s relentless and implacable nature, it also highlighted his gratitude. This, as predicted, went under the radar.
In a particular episode, Jordan highlighted the significance of having Pippen as a teammate during their struggles against the Detroit Pistons.
Jordan said:
“One thing about Pip is, if you stand next to him, you make him stronger. All those Detroit times when Rodman wanted to pick on him, he needed someone there to stand there and say, look I’ll fight with you. Just fight. Scottie and I bonded. Because, he felt like okay he has someone that he can count on and I’m looking at okay, I got someone who I can actually count on.”
Although their relationship has soured in recent times, the relationship between the pair was indeed special. How many instances can one recollect where two NBA teammates went on to capture five or more titles in a decade, in all the years they were active?
It’s unheard of. Their synergy laid the foundation for the success of the Chicago Bulls dynasty.
Scottie Pippen was a tremendous player!
While the media loves to gloat about Jordan’s accomplishments, as a result of his own actions, the truth is Scottie Pippen is a large reason for their success. Without Pippen as the franchise’s anchor, the roster would not have amounted to much.
His sacrifice and selflessness guided the team to their success. Make no mistake, Jordan was extraordinary and the primary reason they were victorious, but it’s best to remember that it takes five individuals to make a team.
Jordan was a prolific scorer and a freak of nature as an athlete. However, Pippen made them tick. Despite the media and supporters not crediting him, his colleagues have seen through the dark and praised him appropriately.
