Scottie Pippen, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, has had a storied career that spans over two decades. As a key player in the Chicago Bulls' championship wins in the 1990s, Pippen's impressive skills on the court earned him a reputation as one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history. But beyond his athletic prowess, what do we know about Scottie Pippen's life off the court? In this article, we'll delve into his biography, exploring his wife, stats, children, and more.
Early Life and Career
Born on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas, Scottie Pippen grew up in a large family with 11 siblings. His early life was marked by hardship, with his family struggling to make ends meet. However, Pippen's athletic talent and determination eventually earned him a scholarship to the University of Central Arkansas, where he began to hone his basketball skills.
After a successful college career, Pippen was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1987, but was quickly traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he would spend the majority of his career. It was during his time with the Bulls that Pippen formed a formidable partnership with Michael Jordan, leading the team to six NBA championships.
Wife and Children
In 1997, Pippen married Karen McCollum, and the couple had a son, Scotty Jr., in 2000. However, the marriage was short-lived, and the couple divorced in 1998. Pippen then married Larsa Younan in 1997, and the couple had four children together: Scotty, Preston, Justin, and Sophia. The couple's marriage was marked by ups and downs, including a highly publicized divorce in 2016.
Stats and Achievements
Pippen's impressive stats and achievements on the court are a testament to his hard work and dedication. With a career spanning 17 seasons, Pippen averaged 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. He was a seven-time NBA All-Star and was named to the All-NBA First Team three times. Pippen's defensive prowess earned him eight NBA All-Defensive First Team selections, and he was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1994.
Post-Basketball Career
After retiring from professional basketball in 2004, Pippen went on to pursue various business ventures and philanthropic endeavors. He has worked as a sports analyst and has made appearances on various TV shows, including
Dancing with the Stars. Pippen has also been involved in several charitable organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Legacy
Scottie Pippen's legacy extends far beyond his impressive stats and achievements on the court. As a key player in the Chicago Bulls' championship wins, Pippen helped to popularize the NBA in the 1990s, inspiring a generation of young basketball players. His dedication to philanthropy and his commitment to giving back to his community have also made a lasting impact. As we look back on Pippen's remarkable career, it's clear that his influence on the game of basketball will be felt for years to come.
In conclusion, Scottie Pippen's life is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and perseverance. From his humble beginnings in Arkansas to his rise to fame as a basketball legend, Pippen's journey is an inspiration to us all. With his impressive stats, achievements, and philanthropic endeavors, Scottie Pippen is a true basketball icon, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and fans alike.
