Scottie Pippen Revisits Spain, Opens Up About Jordan, Legacy & the Modern NBA
Madrid, Spain – Thirty-three years after a somewhat unconventional departure following the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, NBA legend Scottie Pippen has returned to Spain for a charity event supporting the Fundación health’s All Star of Inclusion. The visit sparked a candid conversation with El País, revealing Pippen’s reflections on his career, his complex relationship with Michael Jordan, and his assessment of today’s NBA landscape. This is breaking sports news, and archyde.com has the exclusive details.
A Return to Familiar Ground
Pippen’s return to Spain carries a unique weight. He famously didn’t return with the Dream Team after the Games, a detail he acknowledges with a wry smile. He playfully pointed to the number 33 – the same number he proudly wore for the Chicago Bulls, where he secured six NBA championships. “Spain has always treated me well,” Pippen stated, a sentiment echoing a long-standing appreciation for the country’s hospitality.
Beyond the Championship Rings: A Partnership Defined by Results
The interview delved into the legendary partnership with Michael Jordan. Pippen acknowledged the often-discussed dynamic, admitting compatibility on the court didn’t always translate off it. “The important thing was to make ‘click’ inside the field, not outside,” he explained. “I understood the game, I knew how it worked and what was needed to win. There was no need for anything else. In the end, you don’t have to be a friend, you have to be a companion.” This pragmatic view underscores Pippen’s focus on team success, a cornerstone of the Bulls’ dynasty.
When pressed on his feelings towards Jordan, Pippen’s response was characteristically measured, yet revealing. “Oh… twelve,” he quipped, playfully exceeding the maximum rating of ten when asked to quantify his feelings. “Everything has always revolved around Michael Jordan. But he knows, I’m glad I have left my legacy too, and I don’t only have to talk about him.” This subtle acknowledgement hints at a long-held desire for recognition beyond being simply “Jordan’s teammate.”
Pippen’s Take on the Modern Game & NBA Greats
The conversation shifted to the evolution of basketball. Pippen confidently believes he would thrive in today’s faster-paced NBA. “The game has changed, it is faster, but I think my style also adapted to this type of rhythm, already in the eighties and nineties.” He even asserted he’d be among the league’s best, with the same dedication he displayed in his prime.
Comparing himself to modern greats like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, Pippen offered a nuanced perspective. “The eras are different. I didn’t play in theirs, and they didn’t play in mine. They are extraordinary for their time, as I have been to mine.” He readily acknowledged their talent, refusing to diminish their accomplishments. He did, however, single out Stephen Curry as a particularly impressive player, calling him “the best shooter ever.”
A Legacy Earned, and a Place Among the Elite
Included among the NBA’s 75 greatest players, Pippen modestly suggested he’d be in the top five. While acknowledging the subjectivity of such rankings, he expressed pride in being recognized among the league’s all-time legends. He also offered a keen observation on the rising influence of European players in the NBA, noting their increased dedication and dominance, even impacting MVP voting.
Barcelona ’92: A Defining Moment
The interview concluded with a nostalgic look back at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Pippen recalled the novelty of facing international competition for the first time and the realization of American basketball’s global dominance at the time. He also shared a humorous anecdote about the initial restrictions placed on the Dream Team, leading to a bit of playful rebellion. “We were in a hotel one isolated from Rambla. It was forbidden to go out, but after a while we started to feel in a cage… Let’s say yes: in Barcelona we had a lot of fun.” The grueling training sessions, filled with intense competition and “trash talking,” were ultimately the key to their gold medal victory.
Scottie Pippen’s return to Madrid isn’t just a charitable appearance; it’s a reminder of a remarkable career and a lasting legacy. His insights offer a unique perspective on the evolution of basketball and the enduring impact of the Dream Team. As the game continues to evolve, Pippen’s contributions will undoubtedly remain a vital part of its rich history.
