In a playful twist, Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen recently took a humorous jab at his former teammate Michael Jordan in a new commercial for Mr. Pibb, the cherry-flavored soda known for being the perennial runner-up to Dr.
Pepper. The ad cleverly parallels Pippen's role alongside Jordan, highlighting the theme of being second-best.
Seated comfortably in a white armchair, surrounded by lush greenery, Pippen delivers his lines with a touch of cheekiness. "When something has been considered second-best for so long, we just blindly accept it as gospel," he remarks, referencing the narrative built around Jordan's storied career through marketing and documentaries.
Pippen doesn't hold back, boldly declaring, "Pipp is the GOAT," only to be corrected by a voiceover: "It's 'Pibb.'" Unfazed, Pippen shoots back, "Don't correct me."
This commercial echoes Pippen's dissatisfaction with how he was portrayed in "The Last Dance," the documentary chronicling the Bulls' journey to their sixth NBA championship. While the series spotlighted Jordan, Pippen's contributions were crucial, something he subtly underscores in this ad.
Pippen's point is clear: Jordan didn't clinch a championship until Pippen joined the team in 1987. Despite Jordan's early playoff appearances, it wasn't until Pippen's arrival that the Bulls began their ascent, ultimately winning their first title in 1991.
Yet, it's a two-way street. Pippen, too, never won a title without Jordan.
During Jordan's brief retirement in 1993, the Bulls, led by Pippen, fell short in the playoffs. Even when Jordan returned in 1995, the team couldn't quite capture the magic immediately.
Pippen's playful nod to his legacy in the commercial serves as a reminder of the dynamic duo's intertwined success. While the spotlight often shines on Jordan, Pippen's impact on the Bulls' dynasty is undeniable, and this ad adds a lighthearted chapter to their storied history.