Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen left their mark on United Center after their stellar title winning run for the Chicago Bulls. Today, while playing for the Memphis Grizzlies, Scottie Pippen Jr. was playing for the first time in the same arena where his father built his legacy.
The undrafted guard first spent time with the Los Angeles Lakers. But he was often overlooked and was a part of their G-League outfit for much of his two years there. That spurred him to join the Grizzlies despite knowing all the starters are to return.
But injuries to the likes of Ja Morant and Marcus Smart meant he was thrust into the starting lineup. He already made history joining his father on becoming the first father-son duo to post a triple double. Those performances had helped him make his name as one of the bright young players of the league.
But tonight, he was playing in the United Center where his father hoisted six NBA titles along with Michael Jordan. Pippen Sr. also happens to be the last player to record 25 points, 8 assists while shooting 80% from the field. Today, his son became the first player in nearly three decades to match that.
How cool. Pippen Jr. has been big time. pic.twitter.com/IFkSuivBJE
— Chris Vernon (@ChrisVernonShow) November 24, 2024
Scottie Pippen Jr. finished with 30 points and 10 assists. Those points though came from converting 81% of his shots, matching his father’s last great game in this arena. It is quite a feat for an undrafted player who fans felt was in the league due to his last name.
Scottie Pippen Jr. led Grizzlies to win with Ja Morant out
The Memphis Grizzlies were 10-6 and,in the playoff mix despite not having Ja Morant and other starters for much of the season. The superstar’s hip injury has sidelined him since November 6th, and rookie center Zach Edey‘s injury has kept him out for the past two games.
This undermanned lineup meant were facing a Chicago Bulls team looking to continue winning after their previous thriller. However, they made the mistake of allowing Scottie Pippen Jr. space. The 23-year-old showed his hot hand scoring from across the floor.
His assists helped his teammates continue to produce and they eventually won the high scoring matchup 142-131. This win caps off a 5-3 run as Morant gets ready to return in their next home game. The Memphis Grizzlies’ depth should help them fulfil their promise of a deep postseason run.
