Better...

Scottie Pippen took his rightful place in the NBA Hall Of Fame this weekend. He was a godsend in many ways as a player for the Bulls because of what he was able to do on the court, as well as being able to check his ego about being the focal point in deference to M.J. Pippen not only was a better than average scorer, but also excelled in the position of point-forward and was as hellacious as they come on defense. It is not a stretch to say that Pippen was as vital a component to the Bulls Dynasty of the 1990's as Jordan was, and that there wouldn't be 6 championship banners hanging in the United Center without Scottie Pippen.

As far as Pippen off the court??? Eh...Pippen was known for many years as "No Tippen Pippen" among bars and restaurants in Chicago due to his frugality. He was also no stranger to police blotter as he was investigated over the years for gun charges as well as DUI, but wasn't convicted. The most famous incident Pippen is notorious for (besides his asking out of the last shot play in 1994 Eastern Conference Semi's), was his handling of his long term contract status, and the grief he caused Jerry Krause, despite Krause cautioning Pippen to not sign the long term deal. Eventually Pippen realized over the years that Jerry Krause DID treat him fairly in that situation, and the two of them did kiss and makeup.

As far as his speech? It was far from graceful or eloquent, but compared to Jordan's Hall Of Fame speech, Pippen's was way more enjoyable, simply because Pippen showed humility and gratitude, unlike Jordan who took that opportunity to settle scores of all the people who have "Wronged Him".

So congratulations to Scottie Pippen for taking his well-deserved place among the NBA's All Time Greats! For all the ups and downs, it was a helluva run for the Bulls and us Bulls fans.