Scottie Pippen, a member of the NBA Hall of Fame, and noted Michael Jordan sidekick (at least on the court), is having some legal trouble in the state of California. The issue stems from a fight outside of a sushi restaurant in Malibu. Reports indicate the former Chicago Bull allegedly came to blows with an autograph seeker, who was subsequently sent to the hospital. Naturally, TMZ is all over this:

Pippen allegedly brutalized an autograph seeker outside Nobu restaurant Sunday night. The man was knocked out after Pippen allegedly punched him in the face and kicked him repeatedly.

Pippen left the scene. As for the victim … he was taken to a hospital with serious injuries, including broken teeth and a swollen mouth. He also suffered injuries to his head and back.

Pippen was subsequently named as a suspect for a felony charge of assault with intent to commit great bodily injury.

The star-gazing site has video of Pippen leaving a police station after his questioning at the hands of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and it’s clear TMZ is doing their best to present this story as the standard “entitled star beats up on friendly, unassuming fan.” Quotes from one of the investigating officers presents the non-glamorized side: “Detectives questioned him and released him, pending further investigation,” [Sgt. Richard] Pena said. “They want to question witnesses further.

“At that point, they will make a decision as to whether they have a good case.”

The question in people’s mind becomes, did Pippen attack this a friendly autograph seeker who asked the NBA star in the meekest manner possible, or did Pippen rebuff the initial request, which caused the fan to react in a belligerent manner? As of now, these details remain unknown, at least to the general public. Considering Pippen was questioned and released instead of being charged seems to indicate it is not an open-and-shut case against the six-time NBA Champion.

Whatever the case, it is easy to see this story taking a litigious route with Pippen settling out of court for a tidy six-figure amount.

Sources: here and here.