B. J. Armstrong

B. J. Armstrong – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes

Explore the life and career of B. J. Armstrong — American NBA point guard, three-time champion with the Chicago Bulls, later executive, agent, and mentor. Learn his biography, achievements, style, influence, and notable quotes.

Introduction

Benjamin Roy “B. J.” Armstrong Jr. (born September 9, 1967) is an American former professional basketball player, executive, and sports agent. Best known for his time as a point guard with the Chicago Bulls during their early 1990s dynasty, Armstrong won three NBA championships (1991–1993) and later transitioned into roles in sports management and representation. His story illustrates how a support player on a star-studded team can evolve into a leader, both on and off the court.

Early Life & Family

Armstrong was born in Detroit, Michigan. Brother Rice High School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, graduating in 1985.

Although details about his childhood family life are not widely publicized, his path through high school basketball included establishing himself as a capable guard, which paved the way for his college recruitment.

Youth & College Career

After high school, Armstrong went to the University of Iowa (1985–1989). At Iowa:

• He ranked among the all-time leaders in assists (517 at graduation) and steals (178).

• He scored 1,705 total points in his collegiate career, placing him high in the school records.

• He shot well from three-point range (career ~44.3%) and averaged 18.6 points and 5.4 assists in his senior season.

His performance in college made him an attractive draft prospect for the NBA.

Professional Career & Achievements

NBA Draft & Early Years

Armstrong was selected in the first round of the 1989 NBA Draft, 18th overall, by the Chicago Bulls.

In his rookie season, he contributed off the bench and helped Chicago reach the Eastern Conference Finals.

Championships with Chicago Bulls

Armstrong was a key role player on the Bulls teams that won three consecutive NBA titles (1991, 1992, 1993).

• In 1993, he led the league in three-point percentage (0.453) with 63 of 139 made.

• As Michael Jordan temporarily retired in 1993, Armstrong took on greater responsibilities, helping maintain team performance.

• In 1994, he was an NBA All-Star and averaged double-digit scoring, while still maintaining efficient shooting.

Later Career Moves

After his time in Chicago, Armstrong's career included several team changes:

• In the 1995 NBA expansion draft, he was acquired by (or selected by) the Toronto Raptors (but refused to report), then traded to the Golden State Warriors.

• He played for the Charlotte Hornets, then Orlando Magic, and eventually returned to the Bulls for his final season (1999–2000) before retiring.

Over his NBA career (747 regular season games):

• He averaged 9.8 points per game (ppg), 3.3 assists and 1.8 rebounds.

• His shooting splits were strong: ~47.7% FG, ~42.5% from three, ~85.6% from the free throw line.

Post-Playing Career

After retiring as a player:

• He joined the Bulls’ front office as a special assistant to Vice President of Basketball Operations Jerry Krause.

• He later worked as a scout for Chicago.

• He became a basketball analyst for ESPN’s NBA Fast Break.

• He also entered the sports agent business (working with Wasserman Media Group) representing players like Derrick Rose, JaVale McGee, and others.

In 2025, Armstrong was named Assistant General Manager of the Sacramento Kings.

He also earned recognition from his alma mater: in 2023, Armstrong was inducted into the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame.

Style, Strengths & Challenges

Playing Style & Strengths

• Armstrong was a reliable shooter, especially from three-point range.

• He combined efficiency with smart decision-making, characteristics valued in a point guard on a championship team.

• He was known for being a key “team player”, accepting his role without ego.

• He had the versatility to rise in role when required (especially during Jordan’s absence).

Challenges & Transitions

• Playing in the shadow of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen meant Armstrong had to adapt to a supporting role rather than be the focal star.

• Later in his career, moving between multiple teams, he struggled to replicate earlier consistency.

• Transitioning into front office and agent roles required shifting from on-court performance to negotiation, relationships, and business skills.

Legacy & Influence

• Armstrong is remembered as a steady, efficient, unselfish contributor to one of the greatest dynasties in basketball.

• His post-playing career demonstrates how athletes can extend influence — as front office executives, agents, commentators.

• Through his client relationships and executive roles, he has impacted a newer generation of players.

• His career path offers a model for players who may not be the star but who contribute meaningfully over time.

Famous Quotes

Here are several memorable quotes attributed to B. J. Armstrong:

“Either you change with the times or you get rolled over.” “Winning covers a multitude of sins.” “If you play bad and you still win, everyone says that’s the sign of a good ballclub. But when you play bad and you lose, all of a sudden you have problems and everyone wants to know why.” “Michael Jordan was the greatest practice player I’ve ever seen.” “Like I’ve said all along, whatever’s good for the team is good for me.” “Tremendous teammate, that’s what comes to mind when I think of Scottie Pippen. He was a very caring teammate who was always concerned about the team … He may have been having a 25 or 30-point game, but if he knew you were struggling, he’d find a way to get you going as well.”

These quotes reflect his team-first mentality, respect for his teammates, and understanding of roles and dynamics.

Lessons from B. J. Armstrong

1. Value your role, however “small” it may seem – Even star teams need dependable contributors.

2. Adaptability is key – From bench player to starter, from player to executive, Armstrong shifted roles as situations demanded.

3. Team above self – Many of his comments emphasize putting team success ahead of personal glory.

4. Preparation and consistency matter – As shown by his shooting efficiency and readiness when opportunity arose.

5. Second act matters – A successful career after playing demonstrates planning and leveraging one’s experience and relationships.

Conclusion

B. J. Armstrong may not have had the superstar profile of his more celebrated teammates, but his contributions to championships, his professionalism, and his ability to reinvent himself after playing make his story compelling. From collegiate standout to NBA champion to sports executive and agent, his journey offers lessons about service, adaptability, and longevity in sports and beyond.