The relationship between Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen has been strained for a few years. However, during their playing days, they were inseparable and achieved great success together. They led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA titles. Despite their current differences, they used to openly appreciate and respect each other. Jordan valued Pippen as a teammate because he always delivered when needed.
After winning their fifth NBA title in 1997, Jordan named Pippen the team’s co-MVP during the post-game ceremony. This gesture demonstrated their strong bond on and off the court. Pippen’s exceptional performance during the 1997 Finals against the Utah Jazz justified Jordan’s decision to share the MVP honor with him.
In the Netflix documentary, ‘The Last Dance,’ Jordan expressed his admiration for Pippen and acknowledged his significant contribution to his own success.
However, the documentary also caused a rift between the two, as Pippen felt that it focused too much on elevating Jordan’s legacy. Their relationship remains strained to this day, evident by their absence at the Bulls’ Ring of Honor night recently.