Scottie Pippen: Honoring His Legacy and Family Roots

Scottie Pippen, Legendary NBA Forward and Dual Olympic Champion, Pays Tribute to His Deceased Parents

Scottie Pippen secured gold medals at the 1992 Barcelona and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games while representing the United States.

His remarkable achievements include Olympic glory alongside his NBA success.

June 28, 2026

This piece was last revised by Manoj Gadtaula on June 25, 2026.

Renowned for his exceptional skills as a small forward, Scottie Pippen enjoyed a 17-year NBA tenure, capturing six championships with the Chicago Bulls while honoring the memory of his late parents.

The iconic athlete was born Scotty Maurice Pippen Sr. on September 25, 1965, in Hamburg, Arkansas, as the youngest of 12 children raised by parents Ethel and Preston Pippen.

Preston, a dedicated paper mill worker, and Ethel, a devoted homemaker, nurtured all twelve children despite financial challenges.

Though neither parent participated in sports, they steadfastly encouraged Scottie’s athletic ambitions from childhood.

Growing up in poverty, the family prioritized Scottie’s education above all else, ensuring his path to higher learning despite limited resources.

Pippen frequently honors his parents’ sacrifices through public tributes and heartfelt reflections.

“My mother, Ethel Pippen, raised twelve children with unwavering strength and faith. She taught us resilience and gratitude—values I cherish deeply.

An Instagram post featured Pippen sharing cherished memories of his mother, highlighting her profound influence on his life.

The caption read:

“My mother, Ethel Pippen, raised twelve children with unmatched determination. Her faith and perseverance shaped our entire family.

Despite lacking athletic genetics, Scottie inherited his parents’ impressive stature—standing 6'5" himself.

Family Losses: Parents and Siblings

Scottie experienced the loss of father Preston in 1990 during his Chicago Bulls career.

Preston Clyde Pippen, born June 9, 1920, passed away unexpectedly at 69 after battling illness.

Scottie’s mother, Ethel Lee Pippen, died in 2016 at age 92 following complications from chronic asthma.

Born March 1, 1923, Ethel came from a lineage that valued community involvement through her church affiliation.

Among Scottie’s siblings, sister Dorothy Rena Pippen passed before him, leaving lasting impacts across generations.

His eldest son Antron, born December 29, 1987, succumbed to health struggles in April 2026.

Antron battled chronic asthma throughout his life, following in Scottie’s basketball legacy by competing at collegiate levels.

Family Connections Today

Scotty Jr., Scottie’s son with Larsa Pippen, now plays professionally for Memphis Grizzlies.
Other children include Preston, Justin, and Sophia, also from Larsa Pippen.
Justin Pippen excels at Michigan University athletics, while Sophia appeared on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors.
Twin daughters Taylor and Tyler Roby, and daughter Yvette De Leon complete Scottie’s extended family network.

Suruchi, a dedicated business management student and passionate sports writer, crafts insightful articles exploring diverse sports narratives.

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