When Scottie Pippen Openly Challenged Michael Jordan and Instantly Regretted It at Practice: “Slow Up, Man”

Published 01/07/2023, 1:30 PM EST

Both Bulls legends Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen moved ever so swiftly on the court. They handled the ball with optimum dexterity. However, during their early meetings, Pip did not have any idea of how supremely gifted MJ was. Therefore, the seven-time All-Star challenged His Airness and further confronted him during his early years at the Chicago Bulls. However, fans may be surprised to know how the 14-time All-Star made Pippen regret his decision.

Jordan started to flourish on the court in the mid-80s. During Pippen’s early years at Bulls, His Airness was already bossing around the courts. The seven-time All-Star perhaps didn’t have any idea of MJ’s caliber beforehand and as a result, he finally witnessed the flair of the Black Jesus.

Michael Jordan made Scottie Pippen regret his decision

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An excerpt from the book authored by Sam Smith, ‘Jordan Rules,‘ revealed the story of how Pippen once challenged Jordan during a practice session and soon regretted that decision. In the book, the scenario has been narrated by another Bulls mate of the NBA legends, Craig Hodges. Hodges said that he clearly remembered an instance from 1990. One day the seven-time All-Star challenged His Airness in practice. Subsequently, he added, “Michael kind of backed up for a half-second. Then he proceeded, literally, to score on Scottie at will. It was incredible.”

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Thereafter, Hodges added, “I mean, Scottie Pippen even then was one of the best players in the league and Michael just rained points on him.” Finally, he revealed the string of words which Pip uttered after facing the Black Jesus. Hodges said, “Scottie had to step back and say, ‘Slow up, man.'”

Pip might have surrendered in front of the great MJ that day. However, Scottie Pippen’s immense talent remains undeniable. The seven-time All-Star’s skills were prominent when he paired with His Airness on the court. Pippen was undoubtedly one of the most instrumental players behind the Bulls winning six championships.

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What are your thoughts on this story said by Craig Hodges? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Ayush Roy is an NBA writer at Essentially Sports. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Calcutta. Capitalizing his background in finance, Ayush likes to dive deep into the economics of the NBA.

Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra

When Scottie Pippen Openly Challenged Michael Jordan and Instantly Regretted It at Practice: “Slow Up, Man”

Michael Jordan made Scottie Pippen regret his decision

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