Former NBA champion Craig Hodges spoke candidly about Scottie Pippen’s legacy in a recent interview with NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson. Hodges emphasized that Pippen’s impact on the game is often underrated compared to Michael Jordan’s, despite Pippen’s own exceptional skills.
“Ooooooweee! Ain’t nobody playin’ like Pip, you know what I’m sayin’?” Hodges said with a laugh. He pointed out that Pippen’s ability to contribute without needing the ball constantly set him apart from many players today.
Hodges compared Pippen’s traits to those of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, noting their similarities but insisting Pippen’s instincts and versatility remain unique. “Scottie was looking at what the defense gave him,” Hodges explained, highlighting Pippen’s smart shot selection and defensive prowess.
What made Pippen exceptional, according to Hodges, was his fundamental approach combined with unselfishness. Hodges noted that Pippen’s game was not based on analytics but on instincts, with strong drives to the basket and effective pull-up three-pointers.
Hodges recalled watching Pippen’s development during their time together with the Chicago Bulls in the early 1990s. “He had a certain range in the game that I don’t see many players with, especially from a fundamental end,” Hodges said.
Beyond the court, Hodges shared memories of Pippen and teammate Horace Grant as fun and lighthearted but fiercely focused during games. “Every day they came to work, and when they learned something, they NEVER made the same mistake twice,” Hodges said.
Despite winning six championships and earning a Hall of Fame career, Pippen is still often seen as Jordan’s sidekick. Hodges rejected that narrative, stating, “I don’t think Scottie was any less than a player than Michael Jordan at any point in time.”
Hodges noted Pippen’s defensive skills, recalling how Pippen guarded stars like Jordan and Magic Johnson in practice. “Nobody was more of an unselfish player than Scottie Pippen, man,” he added.
