Dennis Rodman is one of the most notorious players in NBA history, known for his aggressive play, wild personality, and unpredictable behavior both on and off the court. The 1996 NBA Finals between the Chicago Bulls and the Seattle SuperSonics showcased Rodman’s infamous mind games that helped turn the tide of the series.
From his colorful hair to his trash-talking and physical antics, Rodman’s impact on the game went far beyond his statistics. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Rodman’s role in the 1996 NBA Finals and how his mind games helped the Bulls secure their fourth championship in six years.
Dennis Rodman vs. Frank Brickowski
Dennis Rodman won two NBA titles as a member of the “Bad Boy” Detroit Pistons. One of the Pistons’ biggest rivals was the Chicago Bulls, so when Rodman joined the Bulls before the 1995-96 season, it had many fans scratching their heads.
These fans soon forgot about the hard fouls Rodman gave the Bulls players in the past, as he won Chicago’s heart with his work ethic and his unforgettable style. Rodman started to color his hair when he was traded from the Pistons to the San Antonio Spurs in 1993.
By the time Rodman was in Chicago, his hair had begun to change many colors and included different pictures, like the Chicago Bulls logo. Rodman’s hair color did not distract his play or his teammates, as the Bulls reached the NBA Finals with a then-record 72 wins.
Rodman, who was known as “The Worm” was the master of playing mind games. Once he got into your head, it was over… Just ask Frank Brickowski of the Seattle SuperSonics.
Brickowski took on Rodman in the 1996 NBA Finals as his Sonics tried the impossible: beating the 72-10 Chicago Bulls.
While all eyes were on Michael Jordan for his scoring, Rodman was having his way with all the Sonics bigs on the boards, tying an NBA Finals record with 11 offensive rebounds in Game 2.
In Game 3, the Sonics looked to Brickowski to slow Rodman down, and it did not work. Rodman toyed with Brickowski, hooking his arm with Brickowski’s arm, putting his face purposely by Brickowski’s elbows and flopping back, and staring directly at him with a smile on his face while free throws were taken.
This all led to Brickowski being thrown out of the game in the fourth after a flagrant foul was called when he shoved his forearm into Rodman’s neck.
The Bulls won the game 108–86 and the series 4-2, giving the franchise its fourth title, thanks to Rodman’s antics on Brickowski.
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