“Told me to go out there and kill it” — Scottie Pippen told his son and the 24-year-old did exactly that. Scotty Pippen Jr. recently had the game that brought his career-high 30 points and 10 assists. The best part: this stat-line at his father’s plane of action. Yep, the Chicago Bulls’ United Center, where the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Chicago Bulls by 142-131. And recognizing his son’s contribution to the win, Pip could not hold back but appreciate his son.

“Proud moment in the Windy City,” Pippen echoed his son’s earlier sentiments in an IG post. The former Bulls star reposted a post-game interview of his son being asked about his feeling of playing in Chicago. “Yeah, definitely a special place to play… Seeing my dad’s name up here… It’s a dream come true to finally be able to play here. Having family in the town and definitely just get the win,” Pippen Jr. said.

Now, this wasn’t just a one-off moment, though. The Grizzlies clearly believe in Pippen Jr., having upgraded his two-way contract to a multi-year deal this offseason. It was his stint with the South Bay Lakers in the G League and 21 games with Memphis last season that gradually earned Pippen Jr. his spot in the rotation.

Scottie Pippen’s 24-year-old, earlier, even reportedly considered playing overseas before seizing the opportunity with Grizzlies. Something that now seems to be paying off. Sure, he might not have inherited his father’s spotlight just yet. But here’s the thing–he’s quietly working his way there. At least this recent game is a clear indication of this.

Scotty Pippen Jr. has been Grizzlies’ lifeline amid Ja Morant’s absence

Pippen Jr. emerged as a crucial asset for the Memphis Grizzlies during Morant’s absence. G12, who injured his right hip against the Lakers on Nov. 6, is inching closer to his return. If you’ve been following the updates, you’d know he was listed as doubtful for Saturday’s game in Chicago but upgraded to questionable for faceoff against Portland Trail Blazers.

In the meantime, Pippen Jr. made the most of this opportunity. Just two days after stepping into the starting lineup, he delivered a jaw-dropping triple-double against the Washington Wizards. 11 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds. Thanks to his steady hand, the Grizzlies have stayed above .500, even without Marcus Smart and Zach Edey on the team who’ve also been battling injuries.

While Morant’s return might shift Pippen Jr. back to the bench, don’t count him out. His performances have solidified his spot as a key reserve. The 24-year-old’s chemistry with Morant, too, has been promising and there’s a real possibility that we could see more of this duo in action as Pippen Jr. evolves further. As of now, Scottie Pippen is happy with the growth curve that his son’s performance has taken.