It has been more than 2 decades now since Scottie Pippen stepped on the court. But recently, he was part of the history book, thanks to the contribution from his NBA star son. After a promising 2023-24 season, the 24-year-old has truly hit his stride and is only improving day by day. But his journey hasn’t been easy. After just 6 appearances with the Lakers, he was waved off at the end of the preseason last year. So, his father, on a special day, reminded him about the journey and how proud he felt.
“Happy Birthday, Scotty! Today you’re playing in Portland, the city where you were born, and I couldn’t be prouder of all you’ve accomplished. Keep chasing greatness! I’m so proud of the man you’ve become. I love you, son. @spippenjr.” The Grizzlies star replied to his father, “🙌🏽🙌🏽🤞🏽.”
Dwyane Wade, father of 3, who also is helping his son reach the NBA goal, liked the post. Previously too, the Heat legend shared his appreciation of the Scottie Pippen and his son’s achievement. In the Memphis Grizzlies’ 128-104 victory over the Washington Wizards, the guard scored the first triple-double of his career. With a stat line of 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, thus being the first father-son duo to record a triple-double in the NBA play-by-play era, which started in 1996-97.
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The 6x NBA Champion shared that accomplishment on his Instagram, “Congrats @spippenjr 🔥 Proud to share this moment with my son.” Even ex-wife Larsa added, “🔥🔥,” in support of their son. That is why D-Wade also celebrated the historic moment, “🔥🔥🔥.” But did you know that the Bulls legend and his son are not the first father-son pairing to achieve that record?
Scottie Pippen and his son’s achievements have been done before
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From undrafted to triple-double—Is Pippen Jr. the ultimate underdog story in today's NBA?
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The #1 first father and son duo to record a triple-double is Hall of Fame forward Dolph Schayes and his son Danny Schayes. Dolph had three triple-doubles in his career, in 51, 57, and 60. Meanwhile, his son had one during the 82-83 season. Dolph scored 13 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists against the Lakers in December of 82.
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As we know, Pippen Jr. scored his first triple-double, and his father was in double digits. With 17 in as many NBA seasons during his spell with the Bulls, Rockets, and Portland Trail Blazers. There have been previous pairings of famous father-son who missed the record. Kobe Bryant had 21, but his father Joe had none. Similarly, Stephen Curry has 13, and even his father who played 16 years in the league, did not score a single triple-double.
For Scotty Pippen, the reward seems sweeter since he was undrafted during the 2022 draft. Later, he earned a two-way contract with the Lakers, but the chances were limited. Currently, he is averaging 11.6 points after 10 games in the league and also contributing with 4.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists. If he improves the numbers, there will be more posts filled with praise from his family, which the entire NBA community will share and react to.
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From undrafted to triple-double—Is Pippen Jr. the ultimate underdog story in today's NBA?