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Scottie Pippen and Isiah Thomas have been bitter rivals since their playing days for the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons. Pippen has been in the news recently for his controversial remarks on former teammate, Michael Jordan. He accused Jordan of not being a team player, which has invited a lot of criticism. However, there is one thing common between the two – their dislike for Isaiah Thomas. 

Pippen talked about his bitter rival Isiah Thomas in a recent interview with GQ Sport. Pippen said, “I don’t recall talking to Isiah a day since I’ve been on this Earth“.

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Scottie Pippen’s controversial remarks:

With Pippen‘s memoir coming out, people have accused the Hall of Famer of being ‘publicity hungry’. Pippen has been taking shot after shot at former teammate Michael Jordan in recent interviews and his memoir, Unguarded.

Isiah Thomas, Pippen’s arch-rival, was not spared either, with multiple mentions in Pippen’s book. Scottie has clarified that he has no intentions of calling a truce with Thomas.

Speaking to the New York Times, Pippen mentioned, Well, I played in the league for 18 years and there was never a relationship there (with Isiah). I’ve been out of the league for 15 years, so why now? It’s not like we’re crossing each other’s paths anymore.”

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Why do Pippen and Jordan hate Isiah Thomas?

The Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons have had a long history of being bitter rivals. So it was only natural that the stars of each side shared those feelings. Jordan and Pippen have a common rival in Isiah Thomas of the Detroit Pistons. Thomas has been accused of being a conspirator to freeze Jordan out during the 1985 All-Star Game. Although Thomas has long denied the allegation, their bitter relationship stayed the same. 

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Pippen and Thomas took part in high-intensity duels during their playing days, which led to bad blood between the two. Scottie Pippen never liked Thomas, and he strongly protested against Thomas’ inclusion on the 1992 Team USA roster.

Although time has mended lots of bitter relationships, it remains to be seen whether these veterans are ever going to agree to a truce.

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