February 13, 2011 (Fort Kent, Maine) – NBA legend and Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen made his first trip to Maine this past weekend as a spectator and special guest for the current World Cup in Fort Kent. Pippen, who attended following a invite by his friend IBU Vice President Sergey Kushchenko, said that he was wary of accepting the invitation at first.

“I had a bit of trepidation, but I googled it and learned a bit about the sport. I did not know what to expect,” said Pippen according to an IBU release. “It was a chance to be introduced to another sport and meet some world class athletes as well.”

The 6-time NBA Champion, who watched both the men’s and women’s Pursuits, expressed his astonishment with the athletes’ fitness levels after the races. “The competitions were very exciting. The athletes are superb. It is amazing to watch them go through the obstacles that they face and to achieve their goal in such stringent weather. Just being here today, I saw the excitement – I think that America will embrace this sport.”

After the competitions Pippen tried his hand on the shooting range. The self-proclaimed avid hunter shot well for his first time, knocking down three targets. “I am a hunter so I know something about shooting. But I would prefer not to have anyone look when I am shooting.”

US Biathlon CEO Max Cobb commented on Pippen’s visit and remarks. “Having foreign athletes and famous people say how much they enjoyed this area validates the efforts and the hard work of the Maine Winter Sports Center and local organizers, who helped bring the World Cups here.”

Andy Shepard, the President and CEO of the MWSC said he could not have been happier with Pippen’s visit. “Scotty Pippen Came to Fort Kent without knowing much about biathlon, but quickly ingratiated himself with the community by being a most gracious and accommodating superstar.”