Over the years, Scottie Pippen hasn’t been shy about vocalizing his feelings on playing with Michael Jordan through the 80s and 90s.
In his new book “Unguarded,” Pippen took things to a whole new level, laying into MJ for his ego and the way he promoted his career in “The Last Dance.”
Among the firestorm of criticism was one particular quote that stands out from the rest. In it, Pippen lays into his former teammate for being selfish regarding his retirement ahead of the 1993-94 season
“You want to know what selfish is? Selfish is retiring right before the start of training camp when it is too late for the organization to sign free agents.”
Scottie Pippen says he was never close with Michael Jordan and rips him for being selfish
“You want to know what selfish is? Selfish is retiring right before the start of training camp when it is too late for the organization to sign free agents”
(Via Unguarded | h/t NY Times) pic.twitter.com/1di2vGfAtL
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 3, 2021
The quote is a direct response to some heat aimed directly at Pippen during the documentary, with Jordan even referring to him as “selfish” for allegedly stalling the foot surgery that forced him to sit out the 1997-98 season.
And while Scottie is right in the way that MJ retired, the circumstances of his departure give him a pass.
Just a few months before his announcement, his father — James Jordan — was found murdered at a rest stop in North Carolina. MJ apparently lacked the motivation to play ball and was later prompted to pursue a stint in baseball in memory of his dad.
So, considering the tragedy that unfolded and the growing fame that was following Jordan at every turn, it’s understandable that he would want some time to himself, away from the public eye, even if it was to the detriment of his team.
Of course, Michael would return not long after, and he would win three more titles with Pippen, Rodman, and head coach Phil Jackson right at his side.
Today, the group is still revered for what they were able to do, but it seems not all is well with the two biggest stars of that show.
Hopefully, they can find a way to reconcile…
