Dennis Rodman is known as one of the best defenders that the NBA has ever seen. His rebounding prowess is well known even today, and he was a crucial part of 5 different championship teams with the Detroit Pistons and the Chicago Bulls. There’s no doubt that he’s a legend, and that is signified by his status as a Hall-of-Famer. He is an iconic figure in NBA history. He may have been slightly eccentric off the court, but that never stopped him from being a great basketball player.
While there is no question that Dennis Rodman is primarily known for his defensive prowess and versatility, it seems as though Phil Jackson thought very highly of him even beyond that context. On a recent appearance on the Full Send Podcast, Dennis Rodman shared that Phil Jackson revealed that Phil Jackson stated Rodman is “the best player” he has ever coached.
“Phil called me the best player he has ever coached.”
– Dennis Rodman on Phil Jackson
(Via Full Send Podcast ) pic.twitter.com/jQKj2Rb7fH
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 2, 2021
While obviously many would give that honor to Michael Jordan, Phil Jackson had his own ways of motivating his players. Perhaps that is what he said to Rodman to make him the most effective and give him the edge above his opponents. There is no doubt that it worked though, as Dennis Rodman had his best years with the Chicago Bulls. Phil Jackson knew how to maximize the players on most rosters, and it shows in his coaching resume.
He may not be widely viewed as the best player that Phil Jackson has ever coached, but there is no doubting Dennis Rodman’s ability and desire. His energy and hustle on the court were extraordinary, and he often made big plays on the defensive end for the Bulls. He was a key factor in the Chicago Bulls winning their second three-peat, and he is immortalized forever as a member of those amazing teams.
