Dennis Rodman's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Dennis Rodman. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Dennis Rodman, nicknamed "The Worm," is a former professional basketball player celebrated for his exceptional rebounding and defensive skills. Often considered one of the best rebounding forwards in NBA history, Rodman played for several prominent teams, including the Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Dallas Mavericks. He transitioned from small forward to power forward during his career, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1971: Rebound records

In the 1991-92 season, Rodman collected an astounding 18.7 rebounds per game, with 1,530 season rebounds (the most since Wilt Chamberlain's 1,572 in the 1971-1972 season).

1972: Rebound records

In the 1991-92 season, Rodman collected an astounding 18.7 rebounds per game, with 1,530 season rebounds (the most since Wilt Chamberlain's 1,572 in the 1971-1972 season).

1985: NAIA Rebounding Leader

In 1985, Dennis Rodman led the NAIA in rebounding for the first time while playing for Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

1986: NAIA Semifinals and Rebounding Record

In 1986, Dennis Rodman led his team to the NAIA semifinals, scoring 46 points and grabbing a tournament-tying record of 32 rebounds in a single game.

1988: All-Defensive Team Selection

During the 1988-89 season, Dennis Rodman was voted into the All-Defensive Team for the first time in his career.

1989: NBA Championship with the Pistons

In 1989, the Detroit Pistons defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 4-0 in the NBA Finals, with Dennis Rodman playing a key role in defense and rebounding.

1990: NBA Defensive Player of the Year and Championship

In 1990, Dennis Rodman won his first NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award and claimed his second NBA title with the Detroit Pistons, defeating the Portland Trail Blazers in five games.

1991: Rodman Establishes Himself as a Top Rebounder

From 1991, Dennis Rodman established himself as one of the best rebounders of all time, averaging at least 15 rebounds per game in six of the next seven years.

1991: Second Defensive Player of the Year Award

In 1991, Dennis Rodman won his second NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award. However, the Pistons were swept by the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals.

1991: Rodman's Rebounding

In the 1991-92 season, Rodman made a remarkable leap in his rebounding, winning his first of seven consecutive rebounding crowns, along with scoring 9.8 points per game, and making his first All-NBA Team.

March 4, 1992: Rodman's Career-High Rebound Game

On March 4, 1992, Dennis Rodman had a career-high 34-rebound game.

March 1992: Career-High Rebounds

In March 1992, Dennis Rodman grabbed a career-high 34 rebounds in a game.

1993: Rodman Joins Spurs and Wins Rebounding Title

In 1993, Dennis Rodman joined the San Antonio Spurs, playing as a power forward alongside David Robinson. He won his third straight rebounding title, averaging 17.3 rebounds per game, and was named to the All-Defensive Team. He also began displaying unconventional behavior, such as dyeing his hair in various colors.

1994: Rodman's Clashes with Spurs and Rebounding Title

In 1994, Dennis Rodman clashed with the Spurs front office, resulting in suspensions and a leave of absence. Despite missing games due to a motorcycle accident, he managed to win his fourth straight rebounding title, averaging 16.8 rebounds per game, and made the All-NBA Team.

1995: Rodman Traded to Chicago Bulls

Before the 1995-96 NBA season, Dennis Rodman was traded to the Chicago Bulls for Will Perdue. He chose to wear jersey number 91 and quickly adapted to his new environment, becoming part of the Bulls team that won 72 regular-season games.

January 16, 1996: Rodman's First Triple-Double

On January 16, 1996, Dennis Rodman recorded his first triple-double against the Philadelphia 76ers, scoring 10 points, grabbing 21 rebounds, and providing 10 assists. He was also named to the All-NBA Defense First Team.

1996: Rodman's Impact in the 1996 NBA Finals Victory

In the 1996 NBA Finals, Dennis Rodman played a significant role in the Chicago Bulls' victory against the Seattle SuperSonics. In Game Two, he grabbed 20 rebounds, including 11 offensive boards, and in Game Six, he secured 19 rebounds, again with 11 offensive boards. His performance was crucial to the Bulls' success.

1996: Rodman's Offensive Rebounding Record in NBA Finals

In the 1996 NBA Finals, Dennis Rodman twice snared 11 offensive rebounds, equalling an all-time NBA record.

1996: Rodman's Sixth Rebounding Title

In the 1996-97 season, Dennis Rodman secured his sixth straight rebounding title. He made headlines due to his behavior.

December 29, 1997: Wells Sets Record for Fastest Foul Out Against Rodman

On December 29, 1997, Bubba Wells of the Dallas Mavericks committed six intentional fouls against Dennis Rodman in only three minutes, setting the record for the fastest foul out in NBA history. This strategy was an early version of the "Hack-a-Shaq" method.

1997: Rodman Wins Rebounding Title

In the 1997-98 NBA season, Dennis Rodman won his seventh consecutive rebounding title with 15.0 boards per game.

1998: Rodman's Wrestling Stint and Bulls' Championship

In 1998, during the NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz, Dennis Rodman left his team before Game Four to go wrestling with Hulk Hogan, resulting in a $20,000 fine. Despite this, the Bulls won their third title in a row, with Rodman playing a key role on the court.

2003: Rodman Returns to Basketball with Long Beach Jam

In 2003, Dennis Rodman returned to basketball by playing for the Long Beach Jam of the newly formed American Basketball Association during the 2003–04 season, with hopes of being called up to the NBA midseason. He helped the Jam win the ABA championship in their inaugural season.