Why NBA icon is set to make history Down Under

September 19, 2023 admin Uncategorized 0

The NBL has secured a "massive coup" with NBA icon Scottie Pippen to head to Australia to attend games courtside.

Pippen's trip to Australia will be the first of his life and he will be on hand as an official ambassador for the NBL's season tip-off.

He will join former Chicago Bulls teammate and Australian basketball legend Luc Longley for the season-opener between Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix at John Cain Arena on September 28.

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"I'm delighted to announce I'm going to be heading Down Under for the first time, to help launch the NBL season," Pippen said in an NBL statement on Tuesday.

CHICAGO - JUNE 16: Scottie Pippen #33 of the Chicago Bulls celebrates with the Larry O'Brien trophy after defeating the Seattle SuperSonics in Game Six of the 1996 NBA Finals at the United Center on June 16, 1996 in Chicago Iillinois. The Bulls won 87-75. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1996 NBAE (Photo by Andre

"I've heard a lot about basketball in Australia and the NBL, and I've always wanted to come out and see it for myself.

"Now, I finally have the chance and I can't wait.

"I'm told this season in the NBL will be the biggest yet and to the players: I can't wait to see what you guys have got."

Pippen was voted as one of the NBA's greatest 75 players last year after his six titles, seven All-Star appearances, eight All-Defensive first team nods as well as two Olympic gold medals with the US team. He was Michael Jordan's teammate for all six of Jordan's NBA titles with the Bulls.

SEATTLE - JUNE 14: Michael Jordan #23 and Scottie Pippen #33 of the Chicago Bulls discuss strategy against the Seattle SuperSonics in Game Five of the 1996 NBA Finals at Key Arena on June 14, 1996 in Seattle, Washington. The Sonics won 89-78. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1996 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE

"This is a massive coup for the NBL to have someone of Scottie Pippen's standing and prominence in the world of basketball, come out and represent our League and brand," NBL CEO Dave Stevenson said in the statement.

"From our initial discussions with Scottie, there was genuine interest in coming to Australia and most significantly, he was fully aware, and had great knowledge of the NBL.

"Through his lasting relationship with Luc Longley, Scottie has always harboured an ambition to come out to Australia to see the NBL and his many fans, and we are delighted to be able to help make that a reality this season.

"Scottie is, without doubt, one of the biggest names in basketball and his accolades and achievements are simply unbelievable."

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