Scottie Pippen, the Hall of Famer known for his smooth versatility and championship pedigree with the Chicago Bulls, built a legacy defined by grit, grace, and game-changing defense. But it would be unfair to see Pippen not play ever, but wait until the next gen takes up the challenge. Now, that legacy takes a new stride as his son, Justin Pippen, prepares to carve his path, this time in blue and gold, as he joins the California Golden Bears. And in Berkeley, legacy, expectation, and opportunity clash; not everyone is sure it will endure. The Pippen name carries weight and is carved into championship banners, memorialized in Springfield, and now sewn into a fresh jersey at the University of California. This signing offers a new feeling of promise for a program looking forward, not just for the performance of the team but also for its national prominence. But not everything is acceptable, as one issue draws light.

Pippen’s transition to Cal comes after a freshman year at Michigan, where he contributed to the championship-winning squad. However, his numbers were quite modest, with 1.6 points and under an assist per game in 28 appearances. His arrival in Berkeley is not about just stats. It is about the potential he brings, the development he promises and also the chance to write his own story away from the shadows of his father’s greatness.

Cal head coach Mark Madinsen has expressed high hopes, claiming that Pippen is capable of lifting everyone around him. He said, “Justin is a dynamic guard who plays the game with poise, creativity and confidence,” Madinsen added: “He’s a skilled playmaker who can score at all three levels and he’ll elevate those around him with his vision and unselfishness. We love that Justin is a tireless worker – he has a true hunger to keep improving his game. Our Cal Family is going to love having Justin wearing the Blue and Gold.” Yet, even as the program honors a fresh contribution, a running story hangs over. The current collegiate basketball scene, which is characterized by brief stints and frequent transfers, raises doubts about Pippen’s actual stay length. So, beyond the good words and shaping, there’s a trend, a trend where young legs leave.

Justin Pippen’s transfer from Michigan to Cal mirrors a growing trend among college basketball players seeking fresh starts to better align with their aspirations and playing styles. For instance, Tarris Reed Jr., a former four-star recruit, transferred from Michigan to UConn after two seasons, aiming to join a program with a strong championship pedigree. Similarly, Peyton Marshall departed Missouri for Georgia Tech following a freshman year, where he struggled to find his fit. When players are desperate for better options, fans are not shy in expressing their doubts, given knowledge of the growing trend of stars leaving after a breakout year.

“We Need Guys to Stay”: Fans Split Between Hype and Hesitation After Justin Pippen Joins Cal Bears

The reaction to Cal’s announcement on Instagram of Justin Pippen’s arrival was far from one-sided. While the program highlighted Pippen’s arrival as a major win, there is a section of fans who voiced caution rather than celebration. Comments like “Wow can’t wait for him to stay for one year and leave.” Well, you can’t blame fans in an environment where leaving to gain is the new setup. The fear kicks in from the fact that he spent his freshman year at Michigan and now moves to the Bears. Beyond this, there’s a word of caution from a few, too. “If he’s good then he’s in the portal in a year, so don’t jump for joy yet” revealed a prevailing fear that Cal is simply a temporary stop in a longer personal career arc.

Some fans were even harsher, casting doubt on the 20-year-old’s potential. “Unfortunately, he’s not any good. He already flamed out at another school,” one user commented, reflecting the fear Pippen’s early college journey didn’t exactly mirror the smooth trajectory many had imagined, but now, with a fresh start at Cal, he’s hoping to reset the narrative. Others were simply caught off guard: “Brother, I thought it was Scotty Jr.” It will always be hard to reflect his father, so the pressure is on Pippen Jr. to prove himself at a program looking to rise in the Pac-12. Can he do justice?

Still, not all voices were cynical. One fan displayed hope with an emotional chord, posting, “This is all great and thangs… I am need all these ballers to stay for 4 years, build up our Cal team… LET’S GO BEARS.” This desire for stability and for players to learn and grow with the team comes from old-school college basketball values, which are being constantly tested by the transfer portal age.

The possibilities are still there, though. A former four-star prospect and Sierra Canyon standout, Pippen was awarded the 2024 CIF Southern Section Breakout Player of the Year after averaging 16.5 points, 4.9 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. Add to that his competitive DNA and familial pedigree, and Cal might be the launchpad he requires. Justin Pippen’s road will be closely monitored as Cal gets ready for the 2025-26 season, and not only for what he does on the court but also for how long he stays to do it.