In a surprising revelation that sheds light on a critical moment in NBA history, Michael Jordan’s unwavering loyalty to his teammate, Scottie Pippen. This became a defining moment for the Chicago Bulls. Just after securing their fourth NBA championship in 1996, rumors swirled that Pippen was on the verge of being traded to the Seattle Supersonics.
Jordan’s opposition to the trade not only saved Pippen’s spot on the team but also preserved the legacy of one of the greatest duos in basketball history. Which unfortunately doesn’t seem to exist anymore, as the feud between the two has come to notice.
1996 NBA Finals | Game 6 | Post Game | The Bulls Win The Championship | Michael Jordan Praise For Pippen #NBA#BullsNation pic.twitter.com/kZx9nMmfUi
— The Jordan Rules (@Rules23Jordan) December 24, 2021
During a press conference following their championship win, Jordan addressed the media with blunt honesty, stating, “He’s not going nowhere. He’s one of the reasons I came back. If he leaves, I’m leaving again”. Jordan’s statement resonated deeply within the basketball community, highlighting the unique bond between the two Bulls legends.
The trade rumor involving Pippen dates back to the 1994 NBA Draft night. The Bulls’ front office contemplated sending him to the Seattle Supersonics in exchange for forward Shawn Kemp. However, the deal ultimately fell through, paving the way for the Bulls’ thriving 1996 championship run.
Scottie Pippen was reportedly about to get traded to Seattle Supersonics
Reflecting on the potential trade, Jordan expressed his relief, saying, “As much as I admire Shawn Kemp’s ability, I’m so happy that they didn’t make that trade. A lot of people doubted Scottie Pippen for a long period of time, and you know, he’s become like a little brother to me.”
Jordan’s words captured the profound respect and connection that had developed between him and Pippen during their time together. One can’t help but wonder what the Bulls’ front office was thinking during that stormy period.
They had just secured their first three consecutive championships with Jordan before his retirement. They have doubted the team’s ability to succeed without their superstar. However, the 1994-95 season, the first post-Jordan era, silenced the skeptics.
The Bulls, led by Pippen, achieved an impressive 55-27 record, proving their continued competitiveness. Pippen’s leadership and skill on the court undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Michael Jordan’s decision to come out of retirement in 1995.
This incident portrays the bond that Jordan and Pippen shared on the court back in their playing days. However, the scene has been different in recent years. Their feud which caught significant attention was further fueled by a unique relationship.
Michael’s son Marcus Jordan and Scottie’s ex-wife Larsa Pippen have been officially in a relationship since the start of 2023. Interestingly, their wedding plans are ‘In The Works’ and it has added another intriguing layer to the Bulls’ stars relationship.
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