NBA's Greatest Players in History: Scottie Pippen

• Six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls
• Seven-time NBA All-Star and eight-time All-Defensive First Team selection
• Two-time Olympic gold medalist as part of the 1992 "Dream Team" and 1996 USA squad
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Scottie Pippen revolutionised the small forward position, combining elite perimeter defence with playmaking ability to become one of the NBA's most versatile stars and Michael Jordan's perfect complement.

Overview

Scottie Pippen emerged from humble beginnings to become one of the NBA's most complete players and a key figure in the Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s. Standing 6'8" with exceptional athleticism and basketball IQ, Pippen excelled as both a lockdown defender and skilled offensive player. His ability to guard multiple positions, facilitate the offence, and consistently make clutch plays made him the ideal partner for Michael Jordan.

Career snapshot

Drafted 5th overall in 1987, Pippen spent 11 seasons with the Bulls, forming one of the greatest duos in NBA history alongside Jordan. He was integral to Chicago's two three-peats (1991-93, 1996-98), showcasing his all-around brilliance with career averages of 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. Pippen's defensive prowess was particularly noteworthy, earning him a record-tying 10 All-Defensive team selections.

Playing style

Pippen's versatility defined his playing style. On offence, he excelled as a point forward, using his court vision and passing skills to create opportunities for teammates. His long-range shooting and ability to finish at the rim made him a constant scoring threat. Defensively, Pippen's combination of size, speed, and instincts allowed him to guard elite players at multiple positions, often taking on the opponent's top scorer to allow Jordan more freedom on offence.

Why Scottie Pippen is on our list

Scottie Pippen's impact on the game goes beyond his impressive statistical achievements. His role in the Bulls' dynasty, Olympic success, and influence on the evolution of the small forward position cement his status as one of the most dominant players in NBA history. Pippen redefined what it meant to be a "second option" on a championship team, proving that dominance isn't solely about scoring, but about making winning plays in every facet of the game.

Five Fast Facts

• Ranks 7th all-time in NBA career steals (2,307)

• One of only three players to record 200 steals and 100 blocks in a single season (1989-90)

• Led the Bulls in all five major statistical categories in 1994-95 (points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks)

• Named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996

• Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010

Career Highlights Timeline

1987: Drafted 5th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics, immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls

1990: First All-Star selection

1991: Wins first NBA championship with the Bulls

1992: Wins Olympic gold as part of the "Dream Team"

1994: Leads Bulls to 55 wins without Jordan, finishes 3rd in MVP voting

1996: Wins fourth NBA championship as Bulls set record with 72 wins

1998: Completes second three-peat with Bulls

2000: Joins Portland Trail Blazers, leads team to Western Conference Finals

2004: Retires after brief return to Bulls

2010: Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame

Scottie Pippen's journey from small-town Arkansas to NBA superstardom is a testament to his tireless work ethic and unique skill set. While often overshadowed by Michael Jordan's legendary status, Pippen's contributions to the Bulls' dynasty and the evolution of the game are immeasurable. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court, often without dominating the scoring column, redefined what it meant to be a superstar in the NBA.

Pippen's defensive prowess was particularly revolutionary. His combination of size, speed, and basketball IQ allowed him to guard multiple positions effectively, often taking on the opponent's best player regardless of position. This versatility gave the Bulls a tactical advantage, allowing Jordan more freedom on offence while Pippen neutralised threats across the court.

On offence, Pippen's role as a point forward was ahead of its time. His ability to bring the ball up court, initiate the offence, and create opportunities for teammates while also being a scoring threat himself added a dimension to the Bulls' attack that few teams could match. This versatility was crucial in the triangle offence, where Pippen's decision-making and passing ability shone.

Pippen's impact extended beyond the NBA. His performances in the 1992 Olympics as part of the "Dream Team" showcased his talents on a global stage, helping to grow the game internationally. His style of play influenced a generation of players, with many modern small forwards modelling their games after his all-around approach.

While his relationship with Jordan and the Bulls organisation has been complex at times, Pippen's legacy as one of the most dominant and influential players in NBA history is secure. His unique combination of defensive excellence, offensive versatility, and winning mentality make him a true basketball icon, whose impact on the game continues to be felt long after his retirement.

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