Scottie Pippen on Stepping Back After Michael Jordan’s Return in 1995: “I Don’t Wanna Play for the Spotlight or the Fame. I Wanna Fit in and Make the Team Win”

Wish we could turn back time, to the good old days. This is what Chicago Bulls fans have been singing over the past few weeks. In a sudden eruption, Scottie Pippen, one of their finest players, has gone on a series of rants against fellow legend Michael Jordan. As a result, fans of the men in red have been collecting montages of old clips, to relive a time when there was no bitterness. In one such video, we take a look at when Pippen may have taken an indirect dig at MJ, way back in the day.

WATCH THIS STORY: LeBron James vs Isaiah Stewart, Nikola Jokic vs Markieff Morris, Other Fights That Have Already Transpired in 2021-22 NBA Season

There is no doubt that Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen have never been the best of friends. Yet, they have always had mutual respect for one another. In fact, the 14-time All-star has gone to the extent of dedicating one of his Finals MVP awards to ‘Pip’. This is starkly contrary to what Scottie spoke of Jordan recently, terming him as selfish and self-glorifying. Over the years, the duo have connected tons of times, leading the Bulls to six titles in all. But none of this mattered when Pippen tore Jordan apart over the Last Dance documentary.

When Scottie Pippen took a sly dig at Michael Jordan in 1995

With his latest memoir ‘Unguarded’ coming out, Charles Barkley and many others have questioned whether it’s all a publicity stunt. After all, who would’ve expected the 56-year-old to go to the extent of claiming that ‘His Airness’ ruined basketball. It can be argued, however, that Pippen’s best phase came in Michael’s absence. During the 1995 playoffs, the forward was shining, before Jordan returned. Following this, Scottie had a secondary role again.

Contrary to what many anticipated, the explosive star was more than happy to play second-fiddle to his skipper. In Game-4 vs the Charlotte Hornets, Pippen was lauded during an interview for his acceptance in playing the assisting role. Responding to the same with a hint of saltiness, he said, “That’s the type of player that I am. I don’t wanna play for the spotlight or the fame or anything. I wanna fit in and make the team win.”

Was it an indirect call-out from Scottie Pippen to his peer? Nonetheless, Jordan didn’t reply to it back then, and he hasn’t replied to the allegations now. But fans can’t wait to hear from the big man himself, about how things stand between him and Pippen.

READ MORE: Kevin Garnett: ‘Michael Jordan Is the Greatest Shit Talker Ever’