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“Shitty Contract”: Director of Michael Jordan’s Documentary Tried Defending Disastrous Scottie Pippen Decision

Published 03/31/2024, 3:44 PM EDT

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One episode of a recently released podcast, which the director of Michael Jordan’s best-known documentary–The Last Dance— starred in, traced the dispute-raising way of getting Scottie Pippens’ poor contract under the Chicago Bulls’ management. Pippen found himself in a situation that was despicable, in a contemptible contract, often referred to as, ‘the shitty contract.’

However, Pippen was a major contributor to the Bulls’ success alongside Jordan, and he got paid chump change compared to what other current stars are making today. He earned his highest salary of only $3.4 million with the Michael Jordan era Chicago Bulls’ franchise during the 1992-93 season.

However, the one thing that seem valuable, as director Jason Hehir witnesses, is there’s much more to it than meets the eye. As for Pippen, the decision to approve of such a disadvantageous contract was attributed to his emotional state.

It was signed when his father’s death had traumatized his entire family. His mother was inconsolable, and so were his other family members. Preston Pippen had succumbed to a stroke in the face of adversity, leaving a mark of hardship and sacrifice. It was a desperate situation which demanded desperate measure. And then it happened. 

Sentiment Pippen’s “Shitty Contract”

The situation was simply terrible. Scottie’s late father was in the process of decline, along with the problems the rest of the family had, including a brother who got into a wheelchair at a young age. It was a very distressing image for Scottie Pippen himself to have. In trying to assume the responsibility of providing for his dear ones, Pippen felt the need to get financial stability whatever may be the consequences.

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Under the pressure of signing for the five-year extension of $18 million marking the period of 1991, which later became Pippen’s huge mistake, there was that unwillingness to risk which was just a mask of the real undercurrents of fright and the sense of family insecurity and loss.

In retrospect, the repercussions involved in this choice resound throughout the basketball history, and it is considered as the magnificent contractual screw-up in league’s history.

Despite the hardships he endured, Pippen’s legacy transcends monetary setbacks. His contributions to the sport and his resilience in the face of adversity stand as a testament to his character. As the narrative of his career unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the complex realities that often underline the glamour of professional sports.

Michael Jordan Felt “Betrayed” by Scottie Pippen After Tragedy Struck His Father: “I Hope It’s Worth It For Him”

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Written by:

Daksh Saini

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Daksh Saini is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports, where his passion for basketball converges with insightful analysis. Daksh specializes in crafting compelling articles that delve into the legacies of NBA legends. His unique perspective, coupled with a deep understanding of the game, allows him to offer readers nuanced commentary and engaging narratives focused on the iconic figures who have shaped the history of professional basketball.
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Edited by:

Bilal Handoo