“Would’ve Taken That $100 Million”: Scottie Pippen Forgoes Winning A Title Without Michael Jordan For More Money In Hypothetical
Scottie Pippen, one of the greatest NBA players of his era and a key part of the Chicago Bulls’ six championships in the 1990s, has made a headline-grabbing admission that has fans and analysts alike questioning his approach to basketball success. In a recent interview, Pippen was asked about the hypothetical scenario where he could have won an NBA title without Michael Jordan, but with one major caveat: he would have had a $100 million payday instead. Pippen’s response was blunt and surprising: “I would’ve taken that $100 million.”
The statement has left many people scratching their heads, especially considering the deeply intertwined careers of Pippen and Jordan. The two legends formed one of the most successful duos in NBA history, leading the Bulls to six championships between 1991 and 1998. Pippen, often seen as Jordan’s right-hand man, was a defensive powerhouse, an incredible playmaker, and a versatile player who complemented Jordan’s scoring ability perfectly. Together, they made history. However, Pippen’s comment highlights the complexities of their relationship and raises interesting questions about what motivates players at the highest levels of competition.
In the interview, Pippen was asked to reflect on his career and the legacy he built alongside Jordan, with particular focus on the 1997-98 season, often referred to as the “Last Dance.” That season marked the end of the Bulls’ dynasty, with Jordan’s retirement looming and Pippen at a career crossroads. At the time, Pippen was underpaid relative to his contributions to the team, and his contract became a point of contention in the media. Pippen’s frustration with his salary and the way the Bulls front office handled his contract negotiations is well-documented. He was one of the league’s best players but was being paid significantly less than other superstars, a fact that soured his relationship with management.
Pippen’s candid response about choosing money over a hypothetical title without Jordan seems to be a reflection of those frustrations. “If I could have won a title without Mike and gotten that $100 million, I would have done it in a heartbeat,” Pippen said. “Money talks. I love the game, I love winning, but at the end of the day, business is business.”
While some may be surprised by Pippen’s admission, it’s important to consider the context. In an era where NBA players are increasingly mindful of their financial futures, Pippen’s response speaks to the broader trend of players seeking financial security. At the time of his contract negotiations with the Bulls, Pippen was arguably underpaid relative to his status as one of the best players in the league. His decision to extend his contract at a lower rate in exchange for security earlier in his career ultimately left him with a subpar deal, and the resentment from that decision lingered for years.
Pippen’s comment also underscores the reality that athletes, like anyone else, have to make financial decisions based on their long-term well-being. While titles are a major part of an athlete’s legacy, money—especially the kind of generational wealth that a $100 million contract could bring—can be life-changing. Pippen’s hypothetical scenario puts into perspective the tension between personal financial gain and team success, something that not only athletes but people in all walks of life wrestle with.
For those who view Pippen’s career through the lens of his partnership with Jordan, this admission may feel like a betrayal of the iconic “two-man game” that defined the Bulls’ dynasty. However, Pippen’s statement serves as a reminder that professional sports is, at its core, a business, and players are just as concerned with securing their financial futures as they are with winning championships.
In the end, Scottie Pippen’s hypothetical stance is a reflection of the challenges athletes face in balancing personal ambition with team goals. While his legacy alongside Michael Jordan remains cemented as one of the most successful partnerships in sports history, this latest remark adds another layer to the complex narrative of Pippen’s career. Whether or not he truly would have chosen money over another title is up for debate, but the reality of his position is clear: for Pippen, business and legacy often occupy the same court.
