The Chicago Bulls ran roughshod over the NBA in the ’90s. Winning 6 championships in 8 years, their dominance was unparalleled. While most point to Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen as the primary reason, and rightfully so, the other players get lost in the shuffle. That Bulls team was complete in every way. From hustle guys like Dennis Rodman to shooters like Steve Kerr and John Paxon, the team was deep. The big man on the team was consistently Luc Longley. The 7’2″ behemoth from Australia, Longley provided the team with much-needed size and physicality.
Scottie Pippen, on his hot take world tour, recently sat down with the Australian ABC News and had some words about his former teammate, Luc.
Scottie Pippen breaks down Longley’s early Chicago days
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While his remarks about Jordan have been discussed worldwide, his comments about Luc have gone largely unnoticed. When asked about Longley’s initial days, Pippen said, “He kind of lost that confidence in himself…Could he really play in the league? Could he sustain it for 82 games?”
Pointing to the importance of being in the right situation, Scottie further mentioned, “So sometimes it’s about being in the right position too, to be successful.” We’ve seen this play out multiple times before.
Recently, Jrue Holiday went from barely making the playoffs to NBA Champion due to a change in scenery. Pippen mentioned similar tales of Longley in his earlier destinations. “I don’t think he was set up early on in his career, to have a lot of success. ”
Pippen further mentioned how Luc’s earlier struggles caused doubt in his abilities. “I think that’s why he kind of lost a little bit of…His self-esteem and his confidence.”?However, Scottie was quick to point out how a switch to the Bulls was the difference. “I think it all changed once he came to Chicago…Fit in on his own.”
Longley’s career revival in Chicago is truly an inspiration. Even after repeated setbacks, the Australian persevered and etched himself into the records books as a 3-time NBA Champion. Joining him on the championship centers list was Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets as Pippen was among the first to congratulate them.
Denver clinch the championship for the first time
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The dust has settled on another NBA season and the results are in. The Denver Nuggets, after a 4-1 thrashing of the Miami Heat, are the 2023 NBA Champions, a first for the franchise. As a collective, the team boasts the 4th most dominant postseason record at 16-4.
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After a legendary run, Nikola Jokic has solidified himself as the best player in the NBA. Now, the all-time ranks are left to climb. As the Nuggets celebrated, messages from around the world poured in. First among them, was Scottie Pippen as he congratulated the team on a well-earned victory.
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