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Months before ‘actual’ Last Dance, Michael Jordan joked about giving Scottie Pippen a $72,000,000 raise and Dennis Rodman an extra $20 million

Nithin Joseph
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Months before ‘actual’ Last Dance, Michael Jordan joked about giving Scottie Pippen a $72,000,000 raise and Dennis Rodman an extra $20 million

Michael Jordan always had his teammates’ backs. Behind the tough exterior, he genuinely cared for his guys, looking out for them on and off the court. Take, for example, the end of the 1997 season. As recalled in Playing for Keeps: Michael Jordan and the World He Made, His Airness was quite vocal about bumping up the salaries around the likes of $72,000,000 for Dennis Rodman and Scottie Pippen.

The 1998 season, despite the Chicago Bulls’ remarkable five championships in the decade, carried an aura of finality, often referred to as “The Last Dance.” Interestingly, even before the season began, Michael Jordan expressed sentiments indicating his reluctance for it to end. He conveyed his desire to prolong the journey, showcasing his deep attachment to the game and the Bulls organization.

Michael Jordan wanted the Bulls to pay him, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and Phil Jackson the big bucks

Toward the end of the 1997 season, there was much debate about the future of the Chicago Bulls. A dynasty that had dominated the 90s looked ready to come to an end thanks to the ego of one man, Bulls GM Jerry Krause. A man detested by franchise legends Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Phil Jackson.

Krause was ready to revamp the Bulls organization, much to Jordan’s distaste. After all, he was ready to go for a few more seasons. But, there was a slight issue with the other stars on the team. The Zen Master’s departure from the team had been decided, and Scottie still hadn’t received a new contract.

So, when a reporter approached him asking what he would do if he was in charge, MJ jokingly provided an answer. He would pay himself $50,000,000, give Phil $50,000,000, hand Scottie a cool $75,000,000, and leave The Worm with $25,000,000 because of his tight budget.

“Just before the 1997 season had ended Jordan had joked with reporters that if he were in charge he would pay himself $50 million a year (a raise of some $20 million), Jackson $50 million, Pippen $75 million—a raise of some $72 million. Then he realized he had forgotten Rodman. ‘Dennis gets $25 million. He’s probably worth more, but my budget is really tight,’ Jordan said.”

Jordan clearly wanted to continue the legacy he had created alongside his teammates. He truly cared for them. However, things have changed in recent times, as they are now at each other’s throats.

Despite having a great teammate in Jordan, Scottie Pippen has lately been hating on the GOAT

Despite MJ’s brilliance as a teammate, it seems that Pippen harbors deep-seated resentment toward him. Scottie has been going at His Airness for quite some time now. Ever since the release of The Last Dance documentary. The legendary forward believes he has not received enough credit for his contributions to the dynasty.

This, coupled with a number of recent occurrences, like the fact his ex-wife is dating Jordan’s son makes it seem like their friendship is irreparable.

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It is surprising and disheartening to witness the recent expressions of animosity from Scottie Pippen towards Michael Jordan, considering their historic partnership on the basketball court. It is a reminder that even the most successful collaborations can be marred by personal grievances, even among those who have achieved greatness side by side.

About the author

Nithin Joseph

Nithin Joseph

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Nithin is a content writer at The SportsRush. Like his favorite athlete Kobe Bryant, the company has helped Nithin elevate his writing skills to a whole new level, especially as an NBA content writer. With over 1500 articles to his name, Nithin's love for the sport knows no bounds. And, as he continues to watch the sport on a daily basis, he hopes his fascination with the NBA, especially the Miami Heat will inspire more and more readers to give the sport a chance. Perhaps, one day making basketball in India as big as it is in the United States.

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