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 is an American former professional basketball player, known as "the Worm". He is celebrated for his exceptional defensive skills and rebounding prowess, with some considering him the best rebounding forward in NBA history. Rodman played for several NBA teams, including the Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Dallas Mavericks. He transitioned from playing small forward early in his career to power forward later on.

Sections (6)

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

1971: Reference to Wilt Chamberlain's Record

In the 1991-92 season, Dennis Rodman's 1,530 rebounds were the most since Wilt Chamberlain's 1,572 in the 1971-1972 season.

1972: Reference to Wilt Chamberlain's Record

In the 1991-92 season, Dennis Rodman's 1,530 rebounds were the most since Wilt Chamberlain's 1,572 in the 1971-1972 season.

1985: Rodman Leads NAIA in Rebounding

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

1986: Rodman Leads NAIA in Rebounding Again

In 1986, Dennis Rodman again led the NAIA in rebounding and had a standout performance in the NAIA semifinals for Southeastern Oklahoma State University, scoring 46 points and grabbing 32 rebounds.

1989: Pistons Win NBA Finals

In 1989, Dennis Rodman and the Detroit Pistons swept the Boston Celtics, defeated the Chicago Bulls, and won the NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. Rodman grabbed 19 rebounds in Game 3, despite back spasms.

1990: Pistons Win Second Title

In 1990, Dennis Rodman won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award. The Pistons beat the Bulls again, and then defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA Finals, claiming their second title. Rodman played through an injured ankle.

1991: Rodman's Rebounding Leap

During the 1991-92 NBA season, Dennis Rodman made a remarkable leap in rebounding, averaging 18.7 rebounds per game and winning his first of seven consecutive rebounding crowns.

1991: Established as Top Rebounder

From 1991, Dennis Rodman established himself as one of the best rebounders of all time.

1991: Rodman Wins Second Defensive Player of the Year Award

In 1991, Dennis Rodman won his second Defensive Player of the Year Award while playing for the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons were swept by the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals.

March 4, 1992: Career-High Rebound Game

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

March 1992: Rodman Grabs Career-High Rebounds

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

1993: Joins Spurs

In 1993, Dennis Rodman joined the San Antonio Spurs, playing power forward alongside David Robinson. He secured his third consecutive rebounding title, averaging 17.3 rebounds per game. He also earned an All-Defensive Team selection.

1994: Clashes with Spurs Front Office

In 1994, Rodman clashed with the Spurs front office, resulting in multiple suspensions and a leave of absence. He returned after missing 19 games and suffered a shoulder separation in a motorcycle accident. Despite missing games, he secured his fourth straight rebounding title, averaging 16.8 rebounds per game, and earned an All-NBA Team selection.

January 16, 1996: First Triple-Double

On January 16, 1996, Dennis Rodman recorded his first career triple-double against the Philadelphia 76ers, scoring 10 points, grabbing 21 rebounds, and adding 10 assists. He also joined Jordan and Pippen in the All-NBA Defense First Team due to his tough defense.

1996: Historical Rebounding Performance

In the 1996 NBA Finals, Dennis Rodman had a historical rebounding performance, twice snaring 11 offensive rebounds, equaling an all-time NBA record.

1996: Impact in 1996 NBA Finals

In the 1996 NBA Finals, Dennis Rodman played a significant role in the Bulls' victory against the Seattle SuperSonics. Notably, he grabbed 20 rebounds in Game Two, including a record-tying 11 offensive boards, and 19 rebounds in Game Six, again with 11 offensive boards. His performance led to praise from Seattle's coach, George Karl.

1996: Sixth Rebounding Title

In the 1996 season, Rodman secured his sixth consecutive rebounding title.

1997: Bulls NBA Finals victory

In 1997, Dennis Rodman and the Bulls reached the NBA Finals.

1997: Continued Success with the Bulls

In 1997, Rodman's season was marked by his sixth consecutive rebounding title and controversial behavior. He kicked a cameraman, leading to suspension and financial loss. Despite struggles in the playoffs, he contributed to the Bulls' NBA Finals victory against the Utah Jazz.

1998: Seventh Rebounding Title and NBA Finals Appearance

In 1998, Dennis Rodman won his seventh consecutive rebounding title. Prior to Game Four of the NBA Finals versus the Jazz, he controversially left the team to wrestle with Hulk Hogan. He contributed to the Bulls' victory, securing his fifth championship ring.