Ryan Coogler says he and Michael B. Jordan are like "MJ and Pippen"

Jael Rucker

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Ryan Coogler says he and Michael B. Jordan are like "MJ and Pippen" image

You’ve been hearing a lot about Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan over these past few weeks (and especially since last week’s release of their hit film “Sinners”), and as a result you’ve probably seen and heard the many different comparisons the two have drawn. I, myself, have even compared the duo to a 2020s version of Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, but Coogler has another comparison in mind.

Speaking with athlete and Ballislife creator Franklin Session aka @franknitty about the film, the conversation eventually turned towards legendary NBA duos. "We’ve got to ask… we all want to know Michael B. Jordan…he always hit a little  different. You two have built something special over the years. How’s that relationship evolved from “Fruitvale” all the way to “Sinners?," asked Session, adding,” Is it like an MJ and Pippen?

"I would say it’s more like a Mike and Pippen if you know what I mean,” Coogler answered. “We just kind of know what the other one needs…we’ve got a specific rhythm, and I think we’ve become like friends and a part of each other’s lives, and we know what’s important…like I know what’s happening with his sister, brother…we know what’s important to each other."

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Coogler and Jordan have worked together for over a decade, collaborating on many occasions, including 2015's "Creed," which kickstarted a whole new extension of the iconic "Rocky" film franchise. A dynamic film that really added an additional layer to the storytelling of the franchise, the movie chronicles the journey of Adonis (who never got the opportunity to meet his father as he passed away before he was born) as he seeks out the help of Rocky for mentorship to help him get into the ring.

"Creed" would later go on to gross $173.6 million at the box office, spawning two additional sequels.

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Jael Rucker

Jael Rucker has worked as the Associate Commerce Editor at PureWow, focusing on analytics and trends to pitch stories and optimize articles that build and engage their audience. Her work has also been seen in Footwear News and WWD. Prior to 2024, she was the style and pop culture editor at ONE37pm for over three years, contributing numerous product reviews, brand profiles and fashion trend reports, which included interviewing Steph Curry, Snoop Dogg and more.