Scottie Pippen, the legendary Chicago Bulls forward and six-time NBA champion, recently shared his thoughts on the current state of basketball during a visit to Madrid. In an exclusive interview with MARCA, Pippen reflected on how the game has evolved since his playing days in the 1990s, particularly focusing on the contrasting styles of today’s stars like Stephen Curry and Nikola Jokic.
Pippen, who was a key player in the Bulls’ dynasty alongside Michael Jordan, emphasized that the rules and style of play in the 1990s were vastly different from what players experience today. He noted that modern basketball has shifted towards an offensive and spectacle-driven approach, whereas his era was characterized by intense physicality and a strong emphasis on defense.
When discussing Stephen Curry, Pippen suggested that if Curry had played under the rules of the 90s, his impact on the game would have been significantly different. “With the rules of the 90s, Curry would not be the same,” he stated. Pippen explained that shooters in his time faced much tougher defenses, which would have limited Curry’s ability to exploit his three-point shooting skills as effectively as he does now.
Pippen also addressed Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP and star center for the Denver Nuggets. He pointed out that the full-court pressure and physical defensive strategies prevalent in the 90s would have posed challenges for Jokic in terms of getting the ball up the court and maintaining his dominant presence in the game. While Pippen acknowledged the immense talent of both players, he argued that the competitive context of their eras plays a crucial role in evaluating their careers.
According to Pippen, the open and offensive style of today’s NBA benefits players like Curry and Jokic, allowing them to showcase their skills in ways that were not possible in the more physically demanding environment of the 90s. He believes that individual talent shines brightest when it is supported by a strong team dynamic, and that the current league structure favors offensive play over defensive prowess.
As the NBA continues to evolve, Pippen’s insights remind fans and analysts alike of the rich history of the game and the importance of understanding how different eras shape player performance and legacy. With the upcoming season on the horizon, basketball enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing how the current stars navigate the challenges of the modern game, even as they draw comparisons to the legends of the past.