The 1995 NBA season was another successful year for Scottie Pippen, who played as a small forward for the Chicago Bulls. Pippen appeared in 79 regular season games, averaging 21.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game while shooting 47.1 percent from the field and 32.6 percent from beyond the arc.
Despite injuries to several key players, including superstar Michael Jordan who retired from basketball, Pippen took on a larger role in leading the Bulls’ charge during the regular season. He helped the team secure a 47-35 record and a playoff berth and was named to the All-NBA Second Team at the end of the season.
During the playoffs, Pippen continued to put in dominant performances, averaging 22.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game in the first-round series against the Charlotte Hornets. He led the Bulls past the Hornets in a sweep, setting up a matchup against the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Despite Pippen’s efforts, which included averaging 19.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game in the series against the Magic, the Bulls were eliminated in a heartbreaking six-game series, with Pippen sitting out the final 1.8 seconds of a pivotal Game 3 in protest after being taken out of the game by coach Phil Jackson.
Off the court, Pippen continued to be a respected leader and role model for his team, known for his unselfish play and team-first mentality.
Overall, the 1995 NBA season was a successful year for Scottie Pippen, who stepped up in the absence of Michael Jordan and continued to establish himself as one of the league’s best all-around players. His versatile skillset and leadership abilities helped guide the Bulls to postseason success, although the team ultimately fell short of championship aspirations.