NBA icon Scottie Pippen revealed in his memoir “Unguarded” a lighthearted prank he used to play on his teammate Michael Jordan, confessing to placing fake snakes in Jordan’s locker to startle him. Despite their legendary partnership on the Chicago Bulls, which saw them clinch six NBA championships together, Pippen disclosed that
their relationship off the court was not as close as many assumed. He clarified that while they communicated professionally and effectively on the court, their personal rapport was distant. Pippen highlighted their disparate backgrounds, with him hailing from a rural town in Arkansas and Jordan from an urban setting in North Carolina, as contributing factors to their differences.
Despite their off-court distance, Jordan and Pippen’s on-court chemistry was undeniable. Their record with the Bulls spoke volumes, boasting an impressive 514-177 regular-season win-loss ratio and a flawless 6-0 record in NBA Finals appearances, including two instances of three consecutive championships. Jordan’s statistical dominance alongside Pippen showcased their tandem brilliance, with Jordan averaging 31.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.5 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game, while Pippen contributed 17.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. Pippen’s tenure with the Bulls saw him amass numerous accolades, including seven All-Star selections, seven All-NBA nods, and 10 All-Defensive team honors.
Jordan’s legacy with the Bulls stands as one of unparalleled excellence, marked by an illustrious career that included 12 All-Star appearances, 11 All-NBA selections, and nine All-Defensive team recognitions. His statistical prowess, complemented by numerous MVP and Finals MVP awards, underscored his status as one of basketball’s all-time greats.
