Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, the legendary Chicago Bulls wing, sees striking similarities between his own game and that of the Thunder’s rising star. Yet, in a rare and generous gesture, Pippen believes Jalen Williams could surpass even his own storied legacy.

A star-making Finals run

Williams’ 40-point eruption in Game 5 against the Indiana Pacers was a signature moment for the 24-year-old forward, cementing his status as one of the league’s brightest young stars. 

Throughout the Finals, Williams has played the role of Oklahoma City’s dynamic No. 2, complementing MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility. The duo’s combined output has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest pairings in NBA history, including Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen themselves.

Pippen embraces the comparison

Speaking to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Pippen said, “He is pretty special. I’m enjoying watching him. I see a lot of me in him for sure. I see a guy rising to be one of the top players in this league. He’s definitely a player that is capable of being able to lead that franchise to multiple championships—him and Shai, of course.”

While flattered by the comparison, Pippen was quick to point out that the modern NBA gives players like Williams even greater freedom to flourish.

“I don’t even want to put a cap on him to say that he’s going to be me. I see him being greater, if I can say that. Just because of where the game is today. They have offensive freedom. We didn’t have that," Pippen said. "These guys have the freedom to shoot 3-balls and things of that nature. Players that are playing in today’s game have a chance to be better than players in the past because of the ability to shoot the ball.”

Pippen’s praise is especially notable given how rarely legends of his stature so openly endorse comparisons to younger players. He cited Williams’ ability to shoot from deep—already a more prolific three-point shooter than Pippen was early in his career—and his all-around impact as reasons why Williams might ultimately outpace his own achievements.

Williams: “a new-age Scottie”

For his part, Williams has embraced the “new-age Scottie” label, expressing gratitude for the comparison while acknowledging the differences in era and playing style.

Williams’ journey, from overlooked high school prospect to mid-major college standout at Santa Clara to NBA lottery pick, mirrors Pippen’s own unconventional path from Central Arkansas to NBA stardom. 

With the Thunder now just one win away from their first NBA championship, Williams’ performance and Pippen’s endorsement have elevated his profile—and expectations for his future.