Dennis Rodman is one of the greatest defenders in NBA history. During his career, Rodman found great success as an All-Star and one of the best defensive players in the league.
Rodman was part of two of the greatest NBA teams of all time – The ’80s Detroit Pistons, and the ’90s Chicago Bulls. Rodman was pivotal to the success of both those teams and has been recognized as one of the most important players to ever play in the NBA.
Away from the court, Rodman is considered one of the most colorful characters in basketball. Rodman used to dye his hair in different colors and was often found partying at different locations. Despite his endeavors off the court, Rodman’s game never suffered.
His focus was always on the game, even if he was participating in different activities and hobbies off the court. Rodman carried out a fascinating lifestyle, and many fans often wondered how he was able to do everything that he did off the court and still maintain an elite level of play. But despite these concerns, Rodman was able to find great success in the league.
Given Rodman’s lifestyle, fans thought that he wouldn’t survive for very long. And Rodman also bought into that belief. In a recent interview, Rodman spoke about his life, especially off the court.
Rodman said he was shocked that he is still alive to this day because he and many other fans thought that he would have passed away in his 40s and 50s.
“I’m surprised I’m still here because a lot of people thought I would be dead at 40, 45, 50, 55. I turned 60 and I’m like, wow, I’m still here. Someone has a hand on my shoulder saying you have a lot left to fulfill something for people around the world.”
Rodman continues to stay a prominent figure in the basketball world, often weighing in on games and situations with NBA players. Rodman set the blueprint for the modern-day defender. And while no one other than perhaps Draymond Green has come close, Rodman’s presence is still felt in the league to this day.