History of Dennis Rodman in Timeline
"The Worm" Dennis Rodman is a former professional basketball player known for his rebounding. He played for the Pistons, Spurs, Bulls, Lakers, and Mavericks. The NBA considers him one of the best rebounding forwards in history. He played small forward early in his career before becoming a power forward.
May 13, 1961: Birth of Dennis Rodman
On May 13, 1961, Dennis Keith Rodman was born. He would go on to become a renowned professional basketball player, known for his defensive skills and rebounding abilities.
1971: Wilt Chamberlain's Rebounding Legacy
This entry references Wilt Chamberlain's remarkable 1,572 rebounds during the 1971-72 season, highlighting the historical significance of Rodman's accomplishment in surpassing this record in the 1991-92 season.
1972: Wilt Chamberlain's Rebounding Legacy
This entry references Wilt Chamberlain's remarkable 1,572 rebounds during the 1971-72 season, highlighting the historical significance of Rodman's accomplishment in surpassing this record in the 1991-92 season.
1982: Rodman Forms Bond with Rich Family
In 1982, Dennis Rodman formed a deep connection with the Rich family, who became a surrogate family to him. He met Byrne Rich, a shy and withdrawn teenager, at a summer youth basketball camp and developed a close bond with him and his family.
1983: Rodman's College Basketball Journey Begins
Dennis Rodman's college basketball career commenced in 1983, marking the beginning of his journey to becoming a renowned athlete. He started at Cooke County College (now North Central Texas College) before transferring to Southeastern Oklahoma State University.
1985: Rodman Earns First NAIA All-American Honor
Dennis Rodman's exceptional skills on the court earned him his first NAIA All-American honor in 1985. This recognition solidified his status as a rising star in college basketball and foreshadowed his future success.
1986: Rodman Drafted by Detroit Pistons
Dennis Rodman's professional basketball career was launched in 1986 when he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons. This marked a significant turning point in his life as he joined a team known for its tough and competitive playing style.
1986: Rodman Dominates NAIA Tournament
In 1986, Dennis Rodman delivered an outstanding performance in the NAIA tournament, showcasing his rebounding prowess by grabbing a tournament-tying record of 32 rebounds in a single game. This accomplishment helped his team reach the semifinals and solidified his reputation as a rebounding force.
1987: Rodman's Improvement and Playoff Performance
Dennis Rodman demonstrated significant improvement in his performance during the 1987-1988 season, increasing his scoring and rebounding averages. His defensive contributions were crucial in the Pistons' playoff run, where he showcased his tenacity and determination on the court.
1987: Beginning of Relationship with Annie Bakes
Dennis Rodman's relationship with Annie Bakes began in 1987.
1987: Gifting of "The Art of the Deal"
During his 2017 visit to North Korea, Rodman gifted a copy of Donald Trump's 1987 book "The Art of the Deal" to a North Korean official, intended for Kim Jong Un.
1987: Pistons' Playoff Run and Rodman's Feud
The Detroit Pistons made a strong playoff run in 1987, ultimately facing their rivals, the Boston Celtics, in a highly competitive series. During this series, Dennis Rodman engaged in a feud with Celtics guard Dennis Johnson, showcasing his competitive spirit and fiery on-court personality.
1988: First NBA Finals Appearance
In 1988, Dennis Rodman experienced his first NBA Finals appearance, although his team did not win the championship.
1988: Rodman's Defensive Prowess Emerges
In 1988, despite being a bench player, Dennis Rodman's defensive skills earned him a spot on the All-Defensive Team for the first time in his career. This marked the beginning of his recognition as a defensive force in the NBA.
1988: Pistons' NBA Finals Loss and Rodman's Near Miss
The Detroit Pistons, led by Dennis Rodman's defensive prowess, reached the NBA Finals in 1988 but ultimately lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in a closely contested seven-game series. Rodman came agonizingly close to securing a championship-winning rebound in Game Six, highlighting his impact on the game's outcome.
1989: Rodman Steps Up After Mahorn's Departure
With Rick Mahorn's departure in 1989, Rodman seamlessly transitioned into a more significant role for the Pistons. His defensive prowess became even more evident as he filled the void left by Mahorn.
1989: Pistons' Championship Run and Rodman's Impact
The year 1989 saw the Detroit Pistons, including Rodman, clinch the NBA championship. Despite battling back spasms, Rodman's powerful rebounding and defense, including a notable 19-rebound performance in Game 3, were instrumental in their victory against the Los Angeles Lakers.
1989: First NBA Championship and All-Defensive First Team Selection
In 1989, Dennis Rodman won his first NBA championship and was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team, showcasing his exceptional defensive skills.
1990: Rodman's Defensive Dominance and First NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award
Rodman's exceptional defensive skills continued to shine in 1990. He was recognized as the league's best defensive player, earning him his first NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award. He also showcased his offensive efficiency by leading the league with a .595 field goal percentage.
1990: Rodman Secures Starting Role, Earns Second Defensive Player of the Year Award
The 1990-91 season saw Rodman solidify his position as the starting small forward for the Pistons. His exceptional defensive abilities, capable of guarding all positions effectively, earned him his second consecutive NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award.
1990: Second NBA Championship, First All-Star Selection, and First Defensive Player of the Year Award
The year 1990 marked a significant year for Dennis Rodman as he secured his second NBA championship, earned his first NBA All-Star selection, and received his first NBA Defensive Player of the Year award.
1991: Established as a Top Rebounder
Beginning in 1991, Dennis Rodman solidified his reputation as one of the best rebounders in basketball history, consistently averaging at least 15 rebounds per game.
1991: Second Defensive Player of the Year Award
Dennis Rodman received his second consecutive NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 1991, solidifying his reputation as a defensive powerhouse.
1991: Pistons Fall to Bulls in Eastern Conference Finals
Despite Rodman's defensive efforts, the Pistons faced defeat against the Chicago Bulls in the 1991 Eastern Conference Finals, marking the end of their championship reign.
1991: Rodman's Rebounding Dominance Begins
In the 1991-92 season, Rodman's rebounding prowess reached new heights. He averaged a remarkable 18.7 rebounds per game, securing his first of seven consecutive rebounding titles. His 1,530 rebounds that season remain unsurpassed, highlighting his extraordinary skill in this area.
March 4, 1992: Career High in Rebounds
On March 4, 1992, Dennis Rodman achieved a career-high of 34 rebounds in a single game.
March 1992: Rodman Grabs Career-High 34 Rebounds
Rodman's dominance on the boards was on full display in March 1992 when he achieved a career-high 34 rebounds in a single game, further solidifying his reputation as a rebounding force.
September 1992: Marriage to Annie Bakes
Dennis Rodman married his first wife, Annie Bakes, in September 1992. The couple had started dating in 1987 and had a daughter named Alexis Caitlyn. However, their marriage was short-lived and marred by difficulties, leading to a divorce after only 82 days.
1992: Personal and Professional Challenges for Rodman
Rodman faced a difficult year in 1992, dealing with the resignation of his beloved coach, Chuck Daly, and a tumultuous divorce from Annie Bakes, which deeply affected him emotionally.
1992: First All-Star Game Appearance, First All-NBA Third Team Selection, and First Rebounding Title
The year 1992 marked several milestones for Dennis Rodman as he made his first NBA All-Star Game appearance, received his first All-NBA Third Team selection, and claimed his first rebounding title.
February 1993: Rodman's Public Revelation of Personal Struggles
In his 1996 biography, Rodman shared a harrowing experience from February 1993 when he contemplated suicide. This event marked a significant turning point in his life, leading him to embrace his true self and make changes.
October 1, 1993: Rodman Traded to the San Antonio Spurs
Seeking a fresh start, Rodman was traded to the San Antonio Spurs on October 1, 1993. This move marked a new chapter in his career as he joined a team with different dynamics and expectations.
1993: Rodman's Transformation and Unconventional Behavior Emerge
Rodman's time with the Spurs in the 1993-94 season marked a period of significant personal transformation. He began expressing himself more freely, experimenting with his appearance through hair color and hairstyles.
1993: Rodman's Suicide Attempt and Transformation
In 1993, Dennis Rodman experienced a significant turning point in his life when he attempted suicide. This event marked a period of personal struggles, after which he reinvented himself as a "bad boy" known for his controversial antics.
1993: Pistons Struggle, Missing the Playoffs
The 1992-93 season proved challenging for the aging Pistons, resulting in a disappointing season where they missed the playoffs. This marked a turning point in Rodman's career as he sought a change of scenery.
1993: Fifth Consecutive All-Defensive First Team Selection
Dennis Rodman earned his fifth consecutive selection to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 1993, highlighting his consistent defensive prowess.
July 1994: Relationship with Madonna
Dennis Rodman and Madonna had a highly publicized affair in 1994 after meeting for an interview for Vibe magazine, although the intended cover featuring them was shelved.
1994: Rodman's On-Court Antics and Controversies
Throughout 1994, Rodman's on-court behavior became increasingly unpredictable. He engaged in physical altercations with other players, refused to leave the court after ejections, and garnered attention for his personal life, including a high-profile relationship with Madonna.
1994: First All-Defensive Second Team Selection
Dennis Rodman was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team for the first time in 1994, demonstrating his continued defensive impact despite not making the First Team.
1994: Rodman's Conflicts and Injuries Mar Season
The 1994-95 season was turbulent for Rodman as he faced suspensions, took a leave of absence, and suffered a shoulder injury from a motorcycle accident. Despite these setbacks, he still managed to secure his fourth consecutive rebounding title, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to the game.
1994: Horace Grant's Departure Creates Void in Chicago
Prior to the 1994-95 season, Horace Grant's departure from the Chicago Bulls left a significant gap in their power forward position. This event paved the way for Rodman's arrival in Chicago.
1995: Guest Appearance on "Double Rush"
In 1995, Dennis Rodman appeared as himself in an episode of the CBS sitcom "Double Rush."
1995: Seventh All-Defensive First Team Selection and Third All-NBA Third Team Selection
In 1995, Dennis Rodman received his seventh selection to the NBA All-Defensive First Team and his third selection to the All-NBA Third Team.
1995: Rodman Joins the Chicago Bulls
In a significant move, Rodman was traded to the Chicago Bulls in 1995, joining forces with Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. This trade brought together a formidable trio that would go on to achieve remarkable success.
January 16, 1996: First Triple-Double
On January 16, 1996, Dennis Rodman achieved his first triple-double, showcasing his versatility on the court by scoring 10 points, grabbing 21 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists in a game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
March 16, 1996: Headbutt Incident
On March 16, 1996, Dennis Rodman was involved in a controversial incident where he headbutted referee Ted Bernhardt during a game. This resulted in a six-game suspension and a $20,000 fine.
1996: Third NBA Championship and Continued Defensive Dominance
In 1996, Dennis Rodman won his third NBA championship and continued to excel defensively, earning a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
1996: Wedding Dress Publicity Stunt
In a highly publicized event in 1996, Dennis Rodman garnered significant attention for wearing a wedding dress to promote his autobiography, "Bad As I Wanna Be." He used this opportunity to make a statement about his sexuality, proclaiming himself as bisexual.
1996: Rodman Expresses Estrangement from Father in Autobiography
In his 1996 autobiography, "Bad As I Wanna Be," Dennis Rodman opened up about his strained relationship with his father, revealing that they hadn't been in contact for over 30 years. He expressed a lack of connection and longing for his father's presence in his life.
1996: Rodman Publishes Autobiography "Bad as I Wanna Be"
In 1996, Dennis Rodman released his autobiography titled "Bad as I Wanna Be," further solidifying his public persona as a controversial figure. He even wore a wedding dress to promote the book, which became a highly publicized event.
1996: Key Role in NBA Finals Victory
In 1996, Dennis Rodman played a pivotal role in the Chicago Bulls' NBA Finals victory over the Seattle SuperSonics. His exceptional rebounding, particularly on the offensive end, proved crucial in securing the championship.
1996: Historic Rebounding in NBA Finals
During the 1996 NBA Finals, Dennis Rodman displayed exceptional rebounding skills, grabbing 11 offensive rebounds twice, tying an NBA record.
1996: Sixth Rebounding Title
Dennis Rodman's dominance as a rebounder continued in 1996 as he secured his sixth consecutive rebounding title, showcasing his consistent excellence in this aspect of the game.
1996: MTV Talk Show and Collaborations with Pearl Jam
Dennis Rodman hosted his own MTV reality talk show, "The Rodman World Tour," in 1996. That same year, he was featured in releases by the rock band Pearl Jam, including a Polaroid of his eyeball on the cover of their album "No Code" and a voice message on their B-side track "Black, Red, Yellow."
January 15, 1997: Kicking Incident and Suspension
On January 15, 1997, Rodman was involved in an incident where he kicked cameraman Eugene Amos after tripping over him. This resulted in an 11-game suspension and a substantial financial penalty, highlighting the consequences of his actions.
March 1997: Joins World Championship Wrestling (WCW)
Dennis Rodman delved into the world of professional wrestling in March 1997, joining World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and aligning himself with the notorious nWo faction.
July 1997: First Professional Wrestling Match at Bash at the Beach
Dennis Rodman made his professional wrestling debut at WCW's Bash at the Beach event in July 1997, teaming with Hulk Hogan in a losing effort.
August 1997: Helps Hulk Hogan Win WCW World Heavyweight Championship
At WCW's Road Wild event in August 1997, Dennis Rodman, disguised as Sting, interfered in a match, aiding Hulk Hogan in winning the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.
December 29, 1997: Fastest Foul Out in NBA History
On December 29, 1997, Dennis Rodman was intentionally fouled six times in three minutes by Bubba Wells of the Dallas Mavericks, setting a record for the fastest foul-out in NBA history. The strategy was to exploit Rodman's poor free throw shooting, but it backfired as he made 9 out of 12 attempts.
1997: End of an Era
The departure of key figures like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Phil Jackson in 1997 marked the end of a remarkable era for the Chicago Bulls, signaling a period of transition for the franchise.
1997: Seventh Rebounding Title
In 1997, Dennis Rodman continued his reign as the league's premier rebounder, capturing his seventh straight rebounding title. His ability to secure rebounds at an elite level remained a defining aspect of his career.
1997: Rodman Stars in "Double Team"
Dennis Rodman's venture into acting in 1997 with the film "Double Team" received negative reviews and even earned him a triple Razzie Award. However, it showcased his foray into entertainment beyond basketball.
1997: NBA Finals Rematch with Karl Malone in WCW
Following their clash in the 1997 NBA Finals, Dennis Rodman and Karl Malone's rivalry transitioned to WCW, culminating in a tag team match at Bash at the Beach in 1998.
July 1998: Tag Team Match Victory with Hulk Hogan at Bash at the Beach
Dennis Rodman, teaming with Hulk Hogan, faced off against Karl Malone and Diamond Dallas Page in a tag team match at WCW's Bash at the Beach event in July 1998. Rodman and Hogan emerged victorious.
November 14, 1998: Marriage to Carmen Electra
On November 14, 1998, Dennis Rodman married model Carmen Electra in a ceremony held at the Little Chapel of the Flowers in Las Vegas, Nevada.
1998: Fifth NBA Championship and Seventh Consecutive Rebounding Title
Dennis Rodman concluded his championship run in 1998 with his fifth NBA title and an impressive seventh straight rebounding title.
1998: Joins the Cast of TV Show "Special Ops Force"
Dennis Rodman joined the cast of the syndicated TV show "Special Ops Force" in 1998, portraying the character 'Deke' Reynolds.
1998: Third NBA Championship and Wrestling Controversy
Dennis Rodman won his third NBA championship in 1998 with the Chicago Bulls. However, his decision to leave the team to participate in a wrestling event with Hulk Hogan prior to Game Four of the NBA Finals caused significant controversy.
1998: Joining the Los Angeles Lakers
In 1998, Dennis Rodman joined the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that brought him to a new team and a new city as he continued his basketball career.
January 21, 1999: Released by the Chicago Bulls
On January 21, 1999, Dennis Rodman was released by the Chicago Bulls, marking the end of his tenure with the team that he had achieved great success with. This move came as part of a rebuilding phase for the Bulls.
April 1999: Divorce from Carmen Electra
Carmen Electra filed for divorce from Dennis Rodman in April 1999 after a tumultuous relationship.
August 1999: Arrest for Public Drunkenness
In August 1999, Dennis Rodman was arrested for public drunkenness and spent a night in jail after an altercation at Woody's Wharf in Newport Beach, California. The charges against him were eventually dropped.
November 5, 1999: Charges of Misdemeanor Battery
Dennis Rodman and his then-wife, Carmen Electra, faced misdemeanor battery charges on November 5, 1999, following a domestic disturbance call to the police. Both were released on bail with a temporary restraining order imposed. The charges were dropped the next month.
December 1999: Arrest for DUI and Driving Without a License
Dennis Rodman was arrested in December 1999 for driving under the influence and operating a vehicle without a valid driver's license.
1999: Stars in Action/Comedy Film "Simon Sez"
Dennis Rodman took on a leading role in the 1999 action/comedy film "Simon Sez."
1999: Departure from the Lakers
Dennis Rodman's time with the Los Angeles Lakers came to an end in 1999 as he was released by the team.
1999: Rodman Appears in "Simon Sez"
Continuing his foray into acting, Dennis Rodman appeared in the film "Simon Sez" in 1999. The film, however, faced critical disapproval, marking another attempt by Rodman to venture into Hollywood.
1999: Meeting Michelle Moyer
Dennis Rodman met Michelle Moyer in 1999, who would later become his third wife and the mother of two of his children.
1999: Feud with Randy Savage in WCW
In 1999, Dennis Rodman's time in WCW continued with a feud against wrestling legend Randy Savage, culminating in a match at Road Wild that Rodman lost.
1999: Signing with the Dallas Mavericks
In 1999, Dennis Rodman returned to his hometown by signing with the Dallas Mavericks.
July 2000: Plea Deal in DUI Case
In July 2000, Dennis Rodman entered a guilty plea to charges of drunk driving and driving without a license. He was sentenced to pay $2,000 in fines and participate in a three-month treatment program.
July 30, 2000: Final Professional Wrestling Match and Retirement
Dennis Rodman competed in his final professional wrestling match on July 30, 2000, at the i-Generation Superstars of Wrestling pay-per-view event, after which he retired from top-level wrestling.
2000: Departure from the Mavericks
Dennis Rodman's time with the Dallas Mavericks in 2000 was short-lived and marked by controversy. His erratic behavior and conflicts within the franchise led to his departure.
2000: Co-Stars in Skydiving Action Film "Cutaway"
In 2000, Dennis Rodman appeared alongside Tom Berenger in the action film "Cutaway," centered around skydiving.
April 25, 2001: Birth of Son, Dennis Jr.
Dennis Rodman's son, Dennis Jr. ("DJ"), was born on April 25, 2001, to Rodman and his then-partner Michelle Moyer.
May 20, 2002: Birth of Daughter, Trinity
Trinity, Dennis Rodman's daughter with Michelle Moyer, was born on May 20, 2002.
2002: Arrest for Interfering with Police
Dennis Rodman was arrested in 2002 for obstructing police officers who were investigating a code violation at a restaurant he owned. However, the charges were later dismissed.
2003: Joining the Long Beach Jam and Winning the ABA Championship
Dennis Rodman joined the Long Beach Jam of the American Basketball Association (ABA) in 2003. In their inaugural season, the team, led by Rodman, emerged victorious, capturing the ABA championship.
2003: Marriage to Michelle Moyer
Dennis Rodman married Michelle Moyer in 2003, on his 42nd birthday.
2003: Arrest for Domestic Violence
In early 2003, Dennis Rodman was arrested and charged with domestic violence in Newport Beach, California. The charges stemmed from allegations of assaulting his then-fiancée at their home.
April 2004: Drunk Driving Charge
In April 2004, Dennis Rodman entered a no-contest plea to a drunk driving charge in Las Vegas. He was given a $1,000 fine and 30 days of home detention.
2004: Joining the Orange County Crush
In 2004, Dennis Rodman continued his basketball career by signing with the Orange County Crush of the American Basketball Association (ABA).
2004: Playing in Mexico with Fuerza Regia
Dennis Rodman continued his basketball journey in 2004, taking his talents internationally to play for Fuerza Regia in Mexico.
2004: Rodman Wins "Celebrity Mole"
In 2004, Dennis Rodman showcased his competitive spirit and strategic thinking by winning the reality TV show "Celebrity Mole." He walked away with a significant cash prize, proving his ability to succeed in diverse challenges.
2004: Michelle Moyer Files for Divorce
Michelle Moyer filed for divorce from Dennis Rodman in 2004, although the couple attempted reconciliation for several years.
November 2005: Playing in Finland
In November 2005, Dennis Rodman briefly played for Torpan Pojat in Finland's Korisliiga basketball league.
2005: Poses for PETA's "Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" Campaign
Dennis Rodman became the first male to pose nude for PETA's "Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" campaign in 2005, demonstrating his support for animal rights.
2005: Becomes Commissioner of the Lingerie Football League
Dennis Rodman took on the role of Commissioner for the Lingerie Football League in 2005.
January 2006: Appearance on "Celebrity Big Brother UK"
Dennis Rodman participated in the fourth season of "Celebrity Big Brother" in the UK in January 2006.
January 26, 2006: Signing with the Brighton Bears
On January 26, 2006, it was announced that Dennis Rodman had signed a one-game deal with the Brighton Bears of the British Basketball League (BBL).
May 1, 2006: Exhibition Games in the Philippines
In May 2006, Dennis Rodman participated in exhibition basketball games in the Philippines, showcasing his skills alongside other former NBA players.
July 26, 2006: Appearance on "Love Island"
On July 26, 2006, Dennis Rodman appeared as a houseguest on the UK reality show "Love Island" for a pre-arranged one-week stay.
April 30, 2008: Arrest for Domestic Violence
On April 30, 2008, Dennis Rodman was arrested at a Los Angeles hotel following an incident of domestic violence.
May 2008: Entry into Outpatient Rehab
Dennis Rodman entered an outpatient rehabilitation center in Florida in May 2008.
June 24, 2008: Plea Deal in Domestic Violence Case
On June 24, 2008, Rodman entered a no-contest plea to misdemeanor spousal battery charges. He received a sentence of three years of probation, mandatory domestic violence counseling for one year, and 45 hours of community service that required physical labor.
March 29, 2009: Elimination from "Celebrity Apprentice"
On March 29, 2009, Dennis Rodman was the fifth contestant eliminated from the reality show "Celebrity Apprentice," where he was raising money for the Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Orleans.
May 2009: Intervention and Rehab Refusal
Following concerning behavior on "Celebrity Apprentice" in May 2009, an intervention was held for Dennis Rodman, involving individuals such as Phil Jackson, family, and friends. Initially, Rodman resisted entering rehabilitation as he wanted to attend the show's reunion.
2009: Ranked Among SLAM Magazine's Top 50 Players of All-Time
In 2009, Dennis Rodman was recognized for his impact on the game by being ranked 48th on SLAM Magazine's list of the Top 50 Players of All-Time.
January 10, 2010: Incident at Orange County Restaurant
On January 10, 2010, Dennis Rodman was removed from a restaurant in Orange County, California, due to disruptive behavior.
April 1, 2011: Detroit Pistons Retire Rodman's Jersey
On April 1, 2011, the Detroit Pistons officially retired Dennis Rodman's No. 10 jersey, recognizing his significant contributions to the team.
April 4, 2011: Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
On April 4, 2011, Dennis Rodman received basketball's highest honor when he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the game's greats.
March 2012: Financial Advisor's Statement
In March 2012, Dennis Rodman's financial advisor publicly acknowledged Rodman's struggles with alcoholism and how it was impacting his ability to secure work.
2012: Financial Scam Impact
In 2012, Dennis Rodman faced legal issues related to missed child-support payments, which were later discovered to be a result of a financial scam orchestrated by Peggy Ann Fulford.
2012: Reconciliation with Father
Dennis Rodman reconciled with his father, Philander, in 2012 during a trip to the Philippines after a period of estrangement.
2012: Divorce from Michelle Moyer
Dennis Rodman's divorce from Michelle Moyer was finalized in 2012.
2012: Rodman Reunites with Estranged Father
After decades of estrangement, Dennis Rodman reunited with his father in 2012. This emotional reunion marked a significant moment in their relationship, offering a chance for reconciliation and understanding.
February 26, 2013: First Trip to North Korea
Rodman embarked on his first trip to North Korea on February 26, 2013, accompanied by Vice Media correspondent Ryan Duffy, to participate in basketball exhibitions. During this trip, he became one of the first Americans to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
March 2013: Visit to Vatican City
In March 2013, Dennis Rodman made a trip to Vatican City during the papal conclave to elect a new pope. The trip was organized by an Irish gambling company.
April 7, 2013: Elimination from "Celebrity Apprentice"
Dennis Rodman returned to "Celebrity Apprentice" in 2013, raising $20,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He was the sixth contestant eliminated on April 7, 2013.
July 2013: Launch of Bad Boy Vodka
Dennis Rodman partnered with Premier Brands in July 2013 to launch and promote Bad Boy Vodka.
July 2013: Aspirations for Nobel Peace Prize
In July 2013, Rodman expressed his belief in his role as a peacemaker, stating his mission to ease tensions between hostile countries. He even suggested that he deserved consideration for the Nobel Peace Prize.
September 3, 2013: Second Trip to North Korea
Rodman made his second trip to Pyongyang on September 3, 2013, for another meeting with Kim Jong Un. During this visit, he reportedly met Kim's daughter, Kim Ju-ae.
December 2013: Announcement of North Korea Trip and Basketball Games
Rodman announced his intention to return to North Korea in December 2013 for another basketball exhibition tour, with plans to involve former NBA players. The games were scheduled to take place in January to coincide with Kim Jong Un's birthday.
2013: Rodman Befriends Kim Jong Un
Dennis Rodman made headlines in 2013 for his unexpected visits to North Korea and his subsequent friendship with the country's leader, Kim Jong Un. These actions garnered significant international attention and sparked controversy.
2013: Rodman's Relationship with Rich Family Ends
Despite the strong bond they once shared, Dennis Rodman's relationship with the Rich family ended in 2013. The reason for the estrangement was attributed to alleged racial remarks made by a member of the Rich family.
January 7, 2014: Controversial Comments About Kenneth Bae
During a CNN interview on January 7, 2014, Rodman made controversial statements implying that American prisoner Kenneth Bae was to blame for his imprisonment in North Korea. The remarks sparked widespread condemnation.
January 10, 2014: Basketball Diplomacy Games
Rodman organized and participated in basketball diplomacy games in North Korea on January 8 (Kim Jong Un's birthday) and January 10, 2014. The games involved a team of former NBA players.
January 15, 2014: Entry into Rehabilitation Facility
Dennis Rodman entered a rehabilitation facility on January 15, 2014, to address his alcohol abuse. This decision followed a trip to North Korea where his agent reported excessive drinking.
July 24, 2015: Endorsement of Donald Trump
Dennis Rodman publicly endorsed Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign on July 24, 2015.
2015: Release of "Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang"
The documentary "Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang," released in 2015, chronicles Rodman's visits to North Korea.
May 2, 2016: Kenneth Bae Acknowledges Rodman's Role in Release
Despite the controversy surrounding Rodman's comments, Kenneth Bae, after his release, credited Rodman on May 2, 2016, for raising awareness about his case, suggesting that it contributed to his early release.
November 21, 2016: Hit and Run Charges
Dennis Rodman faced charges on November 21, 2016, related to a hit and run incident that occurred in July near Santa Ana, California. The charges included causing a hit and run accident, providing false information to law enforcement, and driving without a valid license.
2016: Continued Support for Trump
Rodman continued his support for Donald Trump's presidential campaign into 2016.
2016: Fulford Indictment
In 2016, the FBI indicted Peggy Ann Fulford for her elaborate financial scams, which included stealing funds from Dennis Rodman that were intended as child-support payments.
2016: Rodman Endorses Trump for President
Dennis Rodman publicly endorsed Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, highlighting their existing friendship.
February 2017: Guilty Plea in Hit and Run Case
Rodman entered a guilty plea in February 2017 to charges stemming from a hit-and-run incident. He received three years of probation, 30 hours of community service, and was ordered to pay restitution and contribute $500 to the Victim Witness Emergency Fund.
June 13, 2017: Return to North Korea for Sports Diplomacy
On June 13, 2017, Rodman returned to North Korea for what was described as a sports-related visit. During this trip, he engaged with North Korean athletes but was unable to meet with Kim Jong Un.
December 2017: Professor Highlights Rodman's Unique Position
In December 2017, Professor Joseph Terwilliger emphasized Rodman's unusual relationships with both President Trump and Kim Jong-un, suggesting that Rodman could potentially act as a bridge between the two nations.
2017: Featured Artist on Mansionz Album
Dennis Rodman was featured on the self-titled album "Mansionz" by the alternative R&B/hip-hop duo Mansionz in 2017. He lent his vocals to the single "Dennis Rodman" and provided uncredited vocals on "I'm Thinking About Horses."
2017: Rodman's 2017 Visit to North Korea Raises Questions
In 2017, Dennis Rodman's visit to North Korea sparked speculation about its purpose, with some suggesting it was related to negotiating the release of American prisoners or establishing diplomatic back channels. Rodman, a self-proclaimed friend of both President Trump and Kim Jong-un, denied any official government involvement.
2017: Rodman's Agent Requests Warmbier's Release
Prior to Rodman's 2017 trip to North Korea, his agent, Chris Volo, made requests to North Korean officials for the release of American prisoner Otto Warmbier as a gesture of goodwill.
January 2018: DUI Arrest
In January 2018, Dennis Rodman was arrested in Newport Beach for driving under the influence. He pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges and was placed on probation for three years.
February 2018: Scam Artist Sentencing
February 2018 marked the sentencing of Peggy Ann Fulford, a professional scam artist, who was convicted of stealing millions from various individuals, including Dennis Rodman, who lost $1.24 million. Fulford was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to pay full restitution to her victims.
June 2018: Visit During US-North Korea Summit
Rodman visited North Korea again in June 2018, coinciding with the 2018 North Korea-United States summit. He expressed his belief that he played a role in facilitating the summit.
May 2019: Allegations of Theft
In May 2019, the Los Angeles Times reported accusations from Ali Shah, a yoga studio owner in Newport Beach, claiming that Dennis Rodman was involved in the theft of items valued at over $3,500 from the studio's reception area, including a 400-pound decorative geode. Rodman denied the allegations, stating that the owner had given him permission to take anything he wanted. As of the report date, no charges had been filed.
October 18, 2019: Battery Charge
On October 18, 2019, Rodman was charged with misdemeanor battery for slapping a man at the Buddha Sky Bar in Delray Beach, Florida.
2019: DJ Rodman's College Basketball Debut
Dennis Rodman's son, DJ Rodman, began his college basketball career playing for Washington State University in 2019.
July 14, 2020: Death of Philander Rodman
Dennis Rodman's father, Philander Rodman, passed away on July 14, 2020, at the age of 79, due to prostate cancer.
2020: Endorsement of Kanye West
In 2020, Rodman endorsed and campaigned for rapper Kanye West's presidential campaign.
2020: Featured Artist on ASAP Ferg's Mixtape
In 2020, rapper ASAP Ferg released his mixtape "Floor Sears II," which included a track named after Dennis Rodman, on which Rodman was featured.
October 2021: Rodman Named to NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In October 2021, Dennis Rodman received a prestigious honor as he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, solidifying his legacy as one of the league's greatest players of all time.
2021: Ranked 62nd on The Athletic's Top 75 Players of All-Time List
In 2021, in celebration of the NBA's 75th anniversary, The Athletic positioned Dennis Rodman as the 62nd greatest player in NBA history on their list of the top 75 players of all time.
September 3, 2023: Appearance at AEW All Out
Dennis Rodman made an appearance at AEW's All Out event on September 3, 2023, aligning himself with The Acclaimed and Billy Gunn.
2023: DJ Rodman Transfers to USC
DJ Rodman transferred to the University of Southern California (USC) to continue his college basketball journey in 2023.