Cinderella Man

Six. That's not enough for the former NBA champion who wants another gold ring on his finger. That's right ladies and gentlemen, Scottie Pippen wants in. The 41-year old veteran desires a life in the old days, and what's better than winning another championship to add to your resume? Pippen understands his situation and believes that he still has the skills. So what are his chances to join the Bulls and bring them their first ring since Michael? Very slim. Pippen says he "would only do this for a contender," a selfish comment in my opinion. Pippen's late comment is truly a result of his passion for basketball.

His desire to play and want for glory have driven him where most past NBA all-stars go, back to the court. But according to previous statistics, history is not in favor for the comeback players. Michael Jordan, 3 years after his last season as a Bull, joined the Washington Wizards to put up 22.9 points per game, almost six points less than he had posted up last season. And the next season? A measly 20.0 points per game. Now those are still fairly good statistics for a 38-year old player. But for MJ, those stats are unacceptable. Moreover, Pippen is entering a new generation of basketball. What Scottie doesn't realize is that the game has changed since he left, revamping the role of the big man and the lack of defense. Pippen's superb defensive skills, along with the perfect combination of offensive aggressiveness, allowed Pippen to stand out amongst most NBA players in history. But his age is finally catching up. Scottie just can't keep up with his lack of conditioning and his fatigue will ultimately strike. Now I fully support Pippen's decision to return to fame, but it won't be easy for #33. He will have to learn to adapt, and he will have to do it without #23 by his side. If Pippen goes to a team like Miami or San Antonio, teams he is considering at the moment, he will learn to cope with the fact that he may not even start. With a player like Tim Duncan or Dwyane Wade, Scottie may not even be truly influential.

But Pippen's purposes lie far beyond his role as a player. In fact, he is acting more as a coaching figure and improving the game for his teammates, especially on the defensive end. As old as Pippen is, his knowledge for the game will never be forgotten, and his tranquil and pleasing personality is big enough to fit in any locker room. Pippen hopes to make a difference on and off the court, taking each player's attributes to the next level with his love for the game. Scottie, almost an emulation of Jordan, has always been known for his heart and passion for the game. He has shown that he can still handle the big league's, and wants to prove all those critics that say he can't succeed in his comeback. Although I concur with most of the statements made on Pippen, I sincerely wish he does prove each and every opposing critic wrong, especially me. By succeeding in his new career, Scottie Pippen would bring hope to the NBA, and hopefully spark a change in the game once again.