Scottie Pippen is synonymous with the Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s. While playing alongside Michael Jordan, Pippen carved out his own Hall of Fame career, defined by versatility, defensive brilliance, and an all-around game that defied simple statistical analysis. Looking at Scottie Pippen Career Stats reveals a story that goes far beyond points, rebounds, and assists, showcasing his profound impact on the game of basketball.
Scottie Pippen in his Chicago Bulls jersey showcasing his defensive prowess.
While Scottie Pippen career stats show averages of 16.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists across his 17 NBA seasons, these numbers only scratch the surface of his contributions. He was the quintessential “glue guy” – a player whose value extended far beyond traditional box score metrics. Pippen was a defensive force, an offensive facilitator, and a crucial secondary scorer for the dominant Bulls teams. His career stats, when viewed through the lens of his era and role, paint a picture of a player who was instrumental to championship success and a pioneer for the modern NBA player.
Born in Hamburg, Arkansas, Pippen’s journey to NBA stardom was improbable. Starting as a walk-on at the University of Central Arkansas, he quickly blossomed into a standout player, eventually becoming a hot NBA prospect. Drafted fifth overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1987 and immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls, Pippen entered the league with raw talent and immense potential.
Initially coming off the bench, Pippen’s career stats in his rookie season reflected a player finding his footing: 7.9 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. However, his athleticism and defensive instincts were immediately apparent. By his second season, Pippen became a full-time starter and began to showcase the all-around game that would define his career. His scoring jumped to 14.4 points per game, complemented by 6.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists. It was during this season he recorded the first of his 20 regular-season triple-doubles, a testament to his multifaceted skillset.
The arrival of Phil Jackson and the implementation of the triangle offense in Chicago further unlocked Pippen’s potential. In the 1989-90 season, Scottie Pippen career stats reached All-Star caliber. He averaged 16.5 points, ranked third in the NBA in steals (2.57 per game), and earned his first All-Star selection. More importantly, he emerged as one of the league’s premier defensive players, consistently guarding the opponent’s top offensive threat.
The 1990-91 season marked the beginning of the Bulls’ dynasty and Pippen’s ascent to superstardom. While Michael Jordan was undoubtedly the primary force, Pippen’s contributions were indispensable. In the 1991 playoffs, as the Bulls marched to their first championship, Pippen elevated his game, averaging 21.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 2.47 steals. His defensive versatility was on full display in the NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he effectively neutralized Magic Johnson after the first game, helping the Bulls secure their first title.
Over the next two championship seasons (1991-92 and 1992-93), Scottie Pippen career stats remained consistently excellent. He averaged over 20 points per game and continued to rack up rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks at elite levels. He earned All-NBA Second Team honors in 1992 and All-NBA Third Team in 1993, solidifying his place among the league’s best. Furthermore, his defensive prowess was consistently recognized with eight consecutive NBA All-Defensive First Team selections from 1992 to 1999.
When Michael Jordan surprisingly retired before the 1993-94 season, Pippen stepped into the leadership void and delivered a career year statistically. His scoring average reached a career-high 22.0 points per game, along with 8.7 rebounds. He led the Bulls to a 55-27 record and earned the All-Star Game MVP award, scoring 29 points. That season, Pippen earned All-NBA First Team honors, demonstrating his ability to lead a team as the primary star.
Jordan’s return in 1995 further fueled the Bulls’ dominance, leading to a second three-peat championship run (1996-1998). During this period, while Jordan reclaimed the spotlight as the scoring leader, Pippen remained the Bulls’ engine, contributing in every facet of the game. In the historic 1995-96 season, where the Bulls went 72-10, Pippen averaged 21.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and led the league in steals with 2.94 per game. Remarkably, he led the Bulls in all five major statistical categories that season, a feat rarely accomplished.
Scottie Pippen career stats also highlight his playoff pedigree. He ranks second all-time in playoff games played (208 at the time of his retirement) and boasts a career playoff average of 17.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. He recorded four playoff triple-doubles, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level when it mattered most. His consistent presence and high-level play in the playoffs were crucial to the Bulls’ six championships.
After the Bulls dynasty dissolved, Pippen played for the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers before briefly returning to Chicago for his final season. While his role and statistics changed in these later years, his impact as a veteran leader and versatile player remained evident. His time in Portland saw the Trail Blazers reach the Western Conference Finals, further demonstrating his ability to contribute to winning teams even outside of Chicago.
In conclusion, Scottie Pippen career stats tell a story of remarkable consistency, versatility, and championship success. While his raw numbers might not always jump off the page compared to volume scorers, his impact on the game is undeniable. He was a defensive icon, a brilliant playmaker, and a vital component of one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history. Beyond the box scores, Pippen’s leadership, adaptability, and all-around excellence cemented his legacy as a Hall of Famer and one of the most impactful players to ever grace the court. His career is a testament to the fact that true basketball greatness is often measured by more than just points per game.
