While playing a video game (NBA 2K in this instance), Scottie Pippen broaches a number of subjects, including the differences between today’s NBA and the one Pip hooped in. And, of course, Scottie addresses the never-ending Kobe/MJ thing. From ESPN: “When you watch the current-day NBA, what’s the biggest difference in the game that you notice between now and your era? Scottie Pippen: ‘The physicality. People were a lot more physical, fouls were more physical, and the lane was truly sacred in terms of the defense. From early on in basketball, it was a Cardinal sin if you let a guy drive through the lane and get a layup. He could shoot two free throws, but you weren’t letting him get that layup. That’s what that Pistons team established. It was the blueprint that you had to use in terms of winning a championship. You could not give up easy shots.’ Now if there’s one hard foul, people are calling for suspensions. Scottie Pippen: ‘Yeah, and back in the late 80s and early 90s, there was a lot more physical play, and guys really prepared themselves to give it as well as take it.’ […] When you watch Kobe play, does he remind you of Michael at all? Scottie Pippen: ‘I have to say yes to that. I think he reminds a lot of people of Michael because he molded his game after him. He seems to have a lot of Michael’s charisma, and it comes across in the way he walks, the way he talks, and especially the way he plays.’”
(H/T: I Am a GM)
