Back in 2005, during Scottie Pippen’s jersey retirement ceremony, Suns legend Charles Barkley trolled Chicago Bulls GOAT Michael Jordan.
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No basketball enthusiast would deny that there is virtually no player greater than Michael Jordan. Considered to be the basketball god by many, Jordan is a celebrated icon all over the world.
The impact he has had goes far beyond the sport. The Chicago Bulls icon cemented himself as the GOAT because of his illustrious 15-year-long career and his competitive spirit.
As soon as he stepped on the court as a rookie, Mike had a great positive influence on the Chicago Bulls franchise. MJ is one of the major reasons why the Bulls organisation is considered to be the greatest sporting dynasties. Behind his leadership, the Bulls won 6 championships in 8 years, and also had a flawless 72 wins series.
However great Michael Jordan was, he never won a ring without the help of his”favourite teammate”, Scottie Pippen. One can’t talk about Jordan’s impressive accolades and not mention Pip’s vital role for the same. Considered to be the Robin to MJ’s batman, the Hall-Of-Fame duo is one of the greatest pairs in league history.
Also Read: Celtics star Jayson Tatum solidifies the GOATs in his top 5 list of all-time
“Scottie Pippen helped Michael Jordan win all those championships”: Charles Barkley
Both the Bulls legends had pretty great careers. However, none of them could go on to win a championship in the other’s absence. Thus, during Scottie Pippen’s jersey retirement ceremony, Charles Barkley decided to troll Michael in order to compliment Scottie. Back in 2005, in a pre-recorded video for the event, Barkley said:
“Hey Scottie, congratulations. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to play with you on the Dream Team and play against you. You’re one of the greatest players in NBA history, and I just want to congratulate you, and I just think that Michael Jordan should be kissing the ground that you walk on because you helped them win all those championships and did all the heavy lifting.”
The entire crowd present at the United Center burst out in laughter including Michael himself.
Like many others, Jordan too had some kind words for his “brother”. The 14-time All-Star commended Pippen:
“When we went into battle, I knew I had someone to watch my back. Scottie Pippen, he’s my guy. I love him like a brother. He pushed me to be the best basketball player every day in practice, and I pushed him to be the best Scottie Pippen he could be.”
Truly, the love, camaraderie and respect the two former teammates still share even years after their retirement are truly commendable.
