Every NBA player dreams of building a family legacy, with many stars hoping to see their kids make it to the league, and Scottie Pippen was no different. The six-time NBA Champion truly believed his eldest son - Antron, would've made it to the NBA if it weren't for his chronic asthma. Unfortunately, those health issues led to the tragic demise of Antron at just the age of 33.
Antron showed promise as a semi-pro
While playing for the Eagles, Antron distinguished himself as a top collegiate prospect, earning an invitation to the prestigious NBAPA Top 100 Camp. This esteemed training program has a notable track record, with more than 300 alumni featuring in the NBA.
Despite the limitations imposed by his chronic asthma, Antron persevered in his basketball pursuits at the collegiate level. Commencing his career with South Georgia Technical University, he ultimately took his talents to Texas A&M International University, a Division II institution. Over there, he played in 21 games, starting in merely two and averaging 3.4 points while getting 12.4 minutes per game.
However, his brightest point came in 2013, when Antron joined the semi-pro World Basketball Association. Antron played a huge role as the Upstate Heat went on to win the State championship, averaging 21.6 points, 6.1 assists, 3.7 rebounds, 3.0 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game.
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Scottie was certain about his son's future
Antron was born in 1987, coinciding with the year his father was drafted into the NBA from the University of Central Arkansas. Unsurprisingly, they shared a profound connection through basketball.
Following Antron's untimely demise, the seven-time All-Star shared a heartfelt social media post honoring his eldest son. In this tribute, he recounted their extensive conversations about basketball. He expressed his conviction that Antron would have undoubtedly secured a path to the NBA had it not been for his health complications.
"Antron suffered from chronic asthma, and if he hadn't had it, I truly believe he would've made it to the NBA. He never let that get him down, though - Antron stayed positive and worked hard, and I am so proud of the man that he became," Pippen wrote . "A kind heart and beautiful soul gone way too soon. I love you, son; rest easy until we meet again."
While the six-time NBA Champion may derive satisfaction from observing Scottie Pippen Jr. trying to make a hard effort to establish himself as a dependable role player, there's no denying that had Antron got a chance to feature in the league, he definitely had the skill set to match the standards set by his father.
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