Ep 3. Episode 3

The Last Dance is a 10-part documentary series that chronicles Michael Jordan's career and the Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s. Episode 3, entitled "Episode 3," focuses on the early years of Scottie Pippen, the Bulls' second-in-command and one of the greatest players of all time.

The episode begins with Pippen's childhood in rural Arkansas, where he grew up one of 12 siblings in a family that struggled financially. Despite these challenges, Pippen was a standout basketball player in high school and earned a scholarship to play at the University of Central Arkansas.

After three years in college, Pippen was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1987 but was quickly traded to the Bulls on draft night. Initially overshadowed by Jordan, Pippen had to work hard to earn the respect of his teammates and prove himself as a valuable member of the team. Eventually, he emerged as one of the most important players on the Bulls, known for his versatility, athleticism, and defensive prowess.

The episode also explores Pippen's relationship with Bulls coach Phil Jackson, who recognized his talent early on and often pushed him to be a better player. Jackson was known for his unconventional coaching methods, such as using meditation and Native American rituals to inspire his team, and he had a unique ability to connect with players on a personal level.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of Pippen's character and how his upbringing influenced his approach to basketball. Despite facing adversity and criticism throughout his career, Pippen remained a humble and hardworking player, always striving to improve his game and help his team succeed.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is its focus on Pippen's contract negotiations with the Bulls in the early 1990s. Pippen was severely underpaid compared to other top players in the league, and he became increasingly frustrated with the team's unwillingness to renegotiate his contract. This tension ultimately led to a controversial moment during Game 3 of the 1994 Eastern Conference semifinals, when Pippen refused to go back into the game after Jackson drew up a play for another player instead of him.

Overall, Episode 3 offers a fascinating look at one of the most important players in basketball history and sheds light on the many challenges and triumphs that shaped his career. As with the previous episodes, the documentary is expertly crafted and features a wealth of archival footage and interviews with key players and coaches. Whether you're a diehard basketball fan or simply interested in the stories behind some of the greatest sports dynasties of all time, The Last Dance is a must-watch series.